The Edo State Government through its Office of the First Lady, has fulfilled its pledge to empower women in North Senatorial District with clean stoves, pots, and cash grants for the purchase of charcoal, following similar initiatives in the Central and the South senatorial districts of the State.
At the empowerment programme in Etsako West Council Hall, Auchi, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, emphasized that empowering women is central to her vision, where one woman’s success can uplift others. She announced upcoming initiatives, including educational tablets for children in the Senatorial District to boost learning outcomes.
Mrs. Anani appreciated partners, particularly the State Ministry of Science and Technology, for its dedication and collaboration in making the project a success. In her words, “I’m delighted to welcome all of you to this important ceremony, marking the distribution of the free climate-friendly stoves to our adorable women of Edo North Senatorial District. Edo Central women received clean stoves on 22nd October, 2025. Edo South women also received theirs November, 2025.
“This initiative is a collaboration between BeLiEF and Care, which is my pet project, and the Ministry of Science and Technology. It stands as a clear testament to our shared commitment to tackling the pressing challenge of clean energy and environmental degradation. By providing access to clean and efficient cooking technologies, we’re not only improving the health and well-being of our people, but also empowering women who are often at the forefront of managing household energy needs”.
Mrs. Anani stated that the Sen. Monday Okpebholo’s administration prioritizes citizen empowerment, sustainability, and environmental protection, demonstrating his commitment to Edo State’s growth and prosperity. According to her, “His Excellency, Distinguished Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, is a passionate and visionary leader, deeply committed to the well-being of every citizen. His empowerment initiatives are deliberately targeted at the most vulnerable members of our society, equipping them with tools and resources they need to improve their lives.
“The provision of this clean stove represents a deliberate step towards reducing carbon footprints, mitigating the effects of climate change, and promoting sustainable development across Edo State. It aligns with the vision of His Excellency to build a more resilient, environmental, conscious, and self-sustaining society where every individual has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive with dignity.”
She urged beneficiaries to seize the opportunity, utilizing the clean stove to better their lives, safeguard their health, and foster a cleaner environment, thereby contributing to a more sustainable future for the State.
The Etsako West Local Government Council Chairperson, Mrs. Okwilague Sikirat Shinny, while welcoming guests to Auchi, appreciated the Sen. Okpebholo-led administration’s efforts to uplift women and promote cleaner cooking, noting the positive community impact. According to her, “We deeply appreciate Her Excellency for championing initiative that uplifts women and promotes safer, cleaner and more efficient cooking tools for our homes and businesses.
“This support will go a long way in improving health, easing daily work and encouraging economic growth amongst women across Edo State. We also thank the Ministry of Science and Technology for partnering with us and making this initiative a reality. To our beneficiaries, I urge you to make good use of these clean stoves and pots to the progress of your families and businesses.”
Beneficiaries, including Selfiya Alhassan, Abdumalik Aisha, and Love Ogedegbe, thanked Mrs. Anani and the Sen. Okpebholo’s administration for bringing empowerment directly to them, sharing how they had struggled with firewood cooking and the health issues associated with it. They promised to utilize the equipment and to support the Government at all times.
