GThe Edo State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation on Tuesday hosted the maiden Edo State Humanitarian Summit, bringing together major stakeholders to chart a coordinated path toward tackling humanitarian challenges and poverty across the state.
The landmark summit, held on March 10, 2026, convened Civil Society Organisations, national and international Non-Governmental Organisations, development partners and orphanage operators to deliberate on sustainable strategies for improving the welfare of vulnerable populations.
Organised under the theme *“Strengthening Systems, Transforming Lives: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Humanitarian Action and Poverty Alleviation,”* the gathering served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration and knowledge sharing among humanitarian actors working in Edo State.
Participants engaged in breakout sessions, interactive discussions and question-and-answer engagements designed to generate practical solutions for strengthening humanitarian systems and advancing sustainable poverty alleviation initiatives.
The summit attracted high-profile dignitaries including the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Yakubu O Musa.
Also present were the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard M. Doro; Dr Bisi Idaomi Esq of the Edo State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; the Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize‑Iyamu; the Executive Director of the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice, Rev. David Ugolor; Head Consultant of Lalitah, Aisha Abubakar; and Dr Kingsley Udo, among several other stakeholders in the humanitarian and development sector.
Further details obtained by this online newspaper indicate that the initiative aligns with the SHINE Agenda of Governor Okpebholo’s administration, which emphasises inclusive governance, improved social welfare and empowerment of vulnerable citizens.
Organisers said the summit marks a major step toward deepening collaboration between government institutions, development partners and humanitarian actors, with a renewed commitment to transforming lives and building a more resilient and prosperous Edo State.