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The Edo State Government says it has removed 25 mentally ill persons from the streets between January and September 2025 as part of its mental health support programme. The government also admitted six people battling drug addiction into rehabilitation centres during the same period.
Announcing the measures at a press conference in Benin City, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, said the state is also collaborating with operators and owners of orphanages to improve living conditions and care standards.
She added that the government has provided shelter and rehabilitation for trafficked women and is equipping others with income-generating skills, including Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion and electric vehicle maintenance.
“We have prioritized programs that empower the girl child, including education and skills development initiatives, to ensure they reach their full potential and contribute to the development of our dear state,” Abdallah said.
According to her, the ministry has also partnered with youth advocates and implemented school-based programmes aimed at promoting positive values and behaviour among young people.
“These initiatives aim to equip the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to drive positive change not only in Edo but across Nigeria,” she added.
Abdallah further highlighted the impact of the SHINE Agenda on women in the state, noting improvements in maternal care, expanded access to health insurance, and free anti-malaria campaigns that have reduced maternal mortality rates and improved health outcomes for women and children.
She also pointed to the gains in agriculture, where increased productivity, support for farmers, and the promotion of agro-processing and value addition have empowered female farmers, strengthened food security, and enhanced nutrition for women and their families.
