Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to women empowerment, family strengthening, and community growth across the state.
Speaking at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, during the inauguration of new executives of market leaders in Edo—led by Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as the new Iyeki—the Governor restated his vision for thriving, peaceful, and inclusive marketplaces.
Represented by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Edesili Anani, Okpebholo emphasized that women remain the heartbeat of Edo’s commerce, adding that their empowerment is key to the prosperity of families and communities.
“Our administration places a premium on women’s economic advancement. We are determined to lift women, strengthen families, and build stronger communities. Your leadership will shape the peace and productivity of our markets,” he said.
The Governor assured market leaders and traders of continuous government support, pledging to make Edo markets true hubs of economic growth, cultural pride, and sustainable development.
In her address, the Iyaloja General of Nigeria, Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo clarified that no leader was displaced, stressing that the Iyeki seat had been vacant for years. She formally inaugurated Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele, urging her and other leaders to serve with dignity and represent Edo traders honorably.
Pastor Ibhaguezejele expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her, noting that the position had remained vacant for 12 years. She revealed that leaders from 151 of Edo’s 152 markets were present at her inauguration, promising to serve faithfully.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Barr. Bisi Idaomi, assured that Edo women would play a significant role in national politics, pledged massive support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshomohole, described the inauguration as a celebration of women as the backbone of the economy, urging the new executives to promote fairness, accountability, and unity in their service to market women.
