Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
Edo State Government has unveiled its Gender Policy to promote gender equality and address gender-based violence in the state.
The launch took place at the Festival Hall of the Edo State Government House in Benin City during a Stakeholders’ Workshop, coinciding with the commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
Speaking at the uneveiling ceremony, wife of the Edo State governor, Mrs Betsy Obaseki commended the state government for its decisive step in developing and implementing a homegrown gender policy.
She said that the policy is for the advancement, safety, and overall development of all individuals within the state.
Mrs. Obaseki said that it will also address the issues of equal rights and equal opportunities adding that, based on that, the Edo State Government has taken a commendable step today.
She added that not every government has come this far to develop their own gender policy but the state has.
The governor’s wife maintained that the policy is for everyone’s good and development.
On the part of the Commissioner for Social Development and Gender, Mrs. Christabel Omoh-Ekwu, she highlighted the significance of the occasion, stating, “This policy launched today is the beginning. We are well aware that achieving gender equality requires continuous commitment, evaluation, and taxation.
“We will regularly assess our progress and identify areas of improvement and address our heritage accordingly.”
Also speaking, Mrs. Uche Nwokedi, the State Programme Coordinator of ROLAC, acknowledged the government’s giant stride in adopting a gender policy that aligns with the global initiative to promote women’s rights.
As the launch resonates with a commitment to progress and inclusivity, the Edo State Gender Policy stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to creating a safer and more equitable society for all.