Edo Women Mark International Women’s Day with Massive Health Walk, Free Medical Checks

Women from different sectors in Edo State gathered at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City for a health walk and exercise programme organized to commemorate International Women’s Day.

The event was put together by the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with the Office of the Edo State First Lady.

The programme attracted a large turnout of women, including special advisers, commissioners, directors, media practitioners, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and persons with disabilities.

In her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, stressed the importance of prioritizing health, noting that a healthy woman remains productive and contributes significantly to national development.
She encouraged women to deliberately make time for their health and general wellbeing despite their busy schedules.

Also speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Mrs. Betty Okonobor, commended the women for their strong participation and urged them to consistently engage in exercise and healthy lifestyle practices.

A major highlight of the programme was a health talk on menopause delivered by the Chief Medical Director of Central Hospital, Dr. Anthonia Inibokun Ijoku. She described menopause as the permanent cessation of menstruation after 12 months and advised women to manage its symptoms through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and appropriate supplements.

Participants also benefited from free medical check-ups during the event, while the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme offered subsidized health rates to women present, including those not on the government payroll.

The health walk brought together women from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the International Women’s Day celebration and reinforcing the importance of promoting women’s health and wellbeing.