BENIN CITY, Edo State — More than 300 women across Edo State have benefited from micro-business grants provided by the Office of the First Lady to strengthen their businesses, promote economic independence and improve family livelihoods.
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo, disclosed this on Monday in Benin City while addressing beneficiaries at an empowerment programme themed, “Micro Business Empowerment: Empowering Women, Strengthening Families, Building a Prosperous Edo.”
Okpebholo said the initiative was designed to support women in growing their businesses and creating sustainable economic opportunities for their families, with beneficiaries drawn particularly from Edo Central and Edo North.
According to her, the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of residents through economic empowerment, inclusive development and direct interventions that promote self-reliance and productivity.
She noted that women across Edo State were actively involved in trading, agriculture, food processing, fashion, catering, petty businesses, crafts and other enterprises, but often required modest financial support to expand their operations.
She urged the beneficiaries to treat the grants as seed capital, advising them to invest wisely by increasing stock, improving services, acquiring equipment and tools, and expanding their customer base.
The coordinator also encouraged the women to maintain proper financial discipline by keeping accurate business records, separating business funds from personal expenses, reinvesting profits and continuously acquiring knowledge and skills to improve their enterprises.
Okpebholo further advised the beneficiaries to prioritise their health by getting adequate rest after their daily activities and going for regular medical check-ups.
She stressed that maintaining good health was essential for them to remain active and available to cater for their families.
‘Invest the grant, don’t consume your seed’
Also speaking at the event, the Zonal Head of Business, South-South 1 Zone, LAPO Microfinance Bank Ltd., Mrs Vivian Amoen, urged the beneficiaries to invest the grants in their businesses rather than spending the money on short-lived material possessions.
Amoen encouraged the women to develop a culture of saving and gradually set aside money for their children’s education.
She described education as one of the best forms of long-term investment for parents.
“When you invest in your children, you won’t suffer in old age. Don’t chase material things or engage in wasteful ventures. Ensure you don’t eat up your seed; invest it in your business,” she said.
Beneficiaries applaud initiative
Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the empowerment initiative, saying the grants would help them strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Mrs Philomena Olonton, a beneficiary from Egor Local Government Area, thanked the Office of the First Lady for supporting Edo women with financial assistance and food items.
She said the grant would help her expand her provision business.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Tina Ehigiator from Ovia North-East Local Government Area, said she would invest the grant in her farming business.
Similarly, Mrs Gift Osaretin from Ovia South-West Local Government Area expressed appreciation for the intervention and prayed for the continued wellbeing of the benefactor.
The empowerment programme is expected to provide beneficiaries with additional capital to sustain and expand their businesses while contributing to improved household income and economic activity across Edo State.
