… Strengthens fight against GBV
The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to fostering a digitally secured and inclusive society where technology serves as a tool for empowerment, not exploitation.
This was the central message of the Edo Cybersecurity Summit 2025, themed, “Online Safety: Our Collective Responsibility,” held in Benin City.
Representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Joy Ihensekhien, stressed the importance of collaboration in building a safe digital environment that promotes innovation and opportunity, especially for vulnerable groups.
Chief Idaomi, in her remarks, noted that while digital transformation has created new avenues for growth, it also presents risks such as cyberbullying, online harassment, financial scams, and data exploitation.
She highlighted that women and girls are disproportionately affected by gender-specific digital threats.
“I am proud to contribute to a conversation that addresses these gaps and propose actionable strategies for inclusive digital protection, gender-sensitive online safety policies, and the empowerment of women in technology and cybersecurity,” she said.
She also reiterated the proactive role of the Ministry in navigating the complexities of the digital age, adding that, “The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is not only committed to physical safety but is now extending its mandate into the digital space to ensure that dignity, safety, and opportunity are upheld for women, children, and families.”
The Managing Director of Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), Mr. Sulaiman Aledeh, in his remarks, emphasised the need for intergenerational learning, stating that “by acknowledging the expertise of digital-native youth, we can build stronger awareness around cybersecurity for all.”
Also speaking at the event, Chief Innovation Officer of Genius Hub, Mrs. Isimeme Whyte, underscored the need for every individual to be digitally literate and equipped with the necessary skills to engage with the digital space confidently.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Teen Management Coach, Mr. Tejiri Chunu, and Executive Director of the African Centre for Enterprise and Capacity Development, Mr. Osayi Tres Omokaro.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, has reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly in support of women across the State.
This assurance was given by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, during a meeting with survivors of GBV and beneficiaries of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) support programme in Benin City.
Mrs. Anani restated the administration’s zero-tolerance for violence of any kind, stating, “The government under Senator Monday Okpebholo has zero tolerance for violence, whether against women or any individual. We are also deeply committed to women’s empowerment, which is essential for self-sufficiency and family stability.”
She encouraged survivors to continue to speak out and rebuild their lives.
“When justice is delayed, it feels like justice is denied. Speaking out is the first step. I’m proud of your courage to pick up the pieces and move forward. The scars may remain, but healing and strength follow.”
Mrs. Anani advised beneficiaries to use their resources wisely.
According to him, “The money given is not just for spending, it should be nurtured to grow. Invest in yourselves, so that you can also become a support system to other women.”
The beneficiaries, in their remarks, appreciated Mrs. Anani for her consistent support and pledged to use their start-up capital prudently, aiming to become models of resilience and success.
