The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the Office of the Edo State First Lady, has kicked off a three-day mini trade fair, which is taking place at the Secretariat Complex, Sapele Road in Benin City, as part of activities lined up to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.

Officially declaring the event open, the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, who was represented by the Director-General of the Edo State Directorate of Education, Quality and Accountability (DEQA), Dr. Amen Ogbemudia, described the mini trade fair as an innovative platform designed to unite and empower women across the state.

Mrs. Anani noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of the Government to inclusiveness and women’s economic advancement. According to her, the fair is structured to accommodate women from all walks of life including market women, professionals, and artisans, emphasizing that every woman, regardless of her background, has a place in the society.

In her address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, described the mini trade fair as more than just a marketplace, but a vibrant showcase of the creativity, resilience, and economic strength of women in Edo State. She emphasized that empowering women goes beyond supporting individuals, noting that it strengthens families and drives community development.

Mrs. Abdallah explained that the three-day event serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses and expand their economic opportunities.

"This 3-day event is our Ministry's way of saying, we see your hard work, and we are providing the platform for you to scale up. To our exhibitors, your products represent the innovation we need to drive our economy forward. I encourage every visitor to shop with intention and support these businesses", she stated

The Commissioner also noted that the fair promotes unity and collaboration among women, creating a sense of shared purpose and collective progress. She added that goods and services are offered at subsidized rates, enabling residents to purchase quality products at affordable prices while directly supporting local entrepreneurs.

A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the tour of exhibition stands by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and the Commissioner, alongside other dignitaries. They interacted with vendors, commended the quality and creativity of the products on display, and demonstrated their support by purchasing items from the exhibitors.