In line with the commitment of the administration of Sen. Monday Okpebholo to social inclusion and welfare of vulnerable groups, the Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, has reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to protecting widows, safeguarding their rights, and promoting policies that ensure their dignity, inclusion, and economic empowerment across the State.
During a thanksgiving service organized by the Edo State Widows Dignity Advocate Network at the Government House Chapel in Benin City, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, represented by the Chief Protocol Officer, Office of the First Lady and Leader of the Network, Mrs. Mabel Obetoh, reiterated the administration’s resolve to implement policies and programmes that protect widows’ rights and improve their overall welfare.
Mrs. Obetoh disclosed plans by the State Government to enroll approximately 180 widows from the three senatorial districts into the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme. According to her, the initiative is aimed at improving access to quality healthcare and enhancing the overall wellbeing of widows across the State.
Delivering a sermon titled, “Faithfulness to God,” the Government House Chaplain, Apostle Sule Faraday, urged Christians to remain steadfast in their devotion to God. Drawing from Matthew 25: 21; Psalm 31: 23; Revelation 2: 10; and other scriptural passages, he highlighted the rewards of faithfulness, citing Joseph and Tabitha as biblical examples of unwavering commitment to God. He outlined practical steps for living a life of faithfulness, and announced a donation of ₦1 million on behalf of the Governor, Sen. Okpebholo, as support for widows in the State.
Speaking on behalf of widows across Edo State, Mrs. Obetoh expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness to the Widows Dignity Advocate Network and to widows throughout the State. She commended Mrs. Anani and the Sen. Okpebholo-led administration for prioritizing policies and programmes that promote the welfare and empowerment of widows.
