BENIN CITY — The Edo State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MHAPA) has marked the 2026 World Humanitarian Day on Friday, October 30, with a targeted economic empowerment drive for micro-entrepreneurs across major commercial hubs in Oredo Local Government Area.
Speaking at the ceremony prior to the distribution exercise, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Bisi Idaomi Esq., reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to social inclusion, sustainable economic relief, and community welfare.
She praised the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for prioritizing grassroots development and reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to expanding social support to vulnerable residents across the state.
”Empowerment is an initiative I would love to undertake every day, given the opportunity, because of its direct impact on people’s livelihoods and economic well-being,” Idaomi stated, underscoring Governor Okpebholo’s desire to see continuous, touchpoint-level relief delivered to citizens, noting that even the smallest interventions make a meaningful difference.
Following the opening remarks, the Ministry carried out the direct distribution of operational equipment and capital support to vulnerable petty merchants operating at Oba Market and Ekiosa Market.
Items presented to the beneficiaries included wet and dry grinding machines for food processors, heavy-duty wheelbarrows for market porters and vendors, and direct financial grants tailored for sachet water sellers and small-scale traders.
The welfare initiative was executed in partnership with private sector organizations, including Mat-Ice, NNPC Exploration and Production, and Vesa Fisheries. Representing Mat-Ice during the event, Mr. Martins commended the ministry’s direct intervention model and pledged expanded Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions and equipment donations for future welfare programs.
The outreach underscores the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to bringing direct, impactful relief to vulnerable communities, setting a sustainable benchmark for grassroots poverty alleviation and economic self-reliance across Edo State.
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