The Edo State Government has extended economic support to petty traders in two major markets in Oredo Local Government Area, distributing cash and essential business equipment to boost their livelihoods and strengthen small-scale enterprises.
The intervention, organised by the Edo State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MHAPA) to mark Humanitarian Day, provided beneficiaries with wheelbarrows, wet and dry grinding machines, as well as cash assistance for pure water sellers and other petty traders.
Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Bisi Idaomi, described the initiative as one of the most rewarding aspects of public service because of its direct impact on people’s livelihoods.
Idaomi said she would gladly embark on empowerment programmes every day if given the opportunity, stressing that targeted interventions could make a significant difference in the economic well-being of vulnerable residents.
She commended the Edo State Government for its commitment to social inclusion, poverty reduction and grassroots development, noting the importance of initiatives that directly improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.
A representative of Mat-Ice, Mr Martins, also praised the programme and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting humanitarian interventions through its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
He pledged increased support and donations for subsequent empowerment exercises to expand the programme’s reach and enable more people to benefit.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Raphael Treasure Itohan expressed gratitude to the state government and the ministry, saying the assistance would help improve her family’s livelihood and financial stability.
Other partners that supported the initiative included Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Exploration and Production and Vesa Fisheries.
The programme forms part of efforts to support vulnerable residents, promote self-reliance and improve economic opportunities for petty traders at the grassroots.
