The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has urged women not to allow betrayal, disappointment or difficult seasons to determine the direction of their lives.
Abdallah said challenging experiences, though painful, could become valuable lessons and stepping stones to greater achievements when approached with courage, reflection and determination.
The Commissioner spoke as a panelist at the 2026 South South Girls Rock Press Event and Dinner, organised by Empire TV in collaboration with the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Benin City.
Speaking on the theme, “How I Survived My Dark Days as a Woman,” Abdallah opened up about some of the challenges she encountered during her years in the banking sector and later in political life.
She recalled experiencing workplace betrayal when a trusted colleague allegedly worked against her during a promotion process. Rather than allowing the experience to break her spirit, she said she eventually discovered that what appeared to be a setback was opening another door in her life.
That difficult experience, she noted, ultimately became part of the journey that led to her appointment as a commissioner.
Abdallah stressed that women need emotional strength, self-confidence and reliable support systems to navigate difficult seasons.
She identified her children and her mentor, Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea, as important sources of encouragement during some of the most challenging periods of her life.
According to her, women should learn to spend time alone, reflect on their experiences and find the strength to encourage themselves, while also understanding that every difficult season can offer an opportunity for personal growth.
“Dark hours are learning hours,” she declared.
The Commissioner urged women to look beyond their present struggles and see difficult experiences as lessons that could prepare them for a stronger and more purposeful future.
Also speaking at the event, the Edo State Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea, drew attention to the vulnerabilities faced by single mothers and widows.
Ebea warned that financial and emotional vulnerability could expose women to exploitation and manipulation, stressing
the importance of financial independence, personal accountability and preparedness.He encouraged women to develop personal enterprises and avoid placing their entire financial and emotional security in the hands of partners, friends or associates.
Other speakers at the event also shared powerful accounts of resilience and transformation.
The Proprietress of Cheldam International School, Nma Kande Okoigi; founder of Ruru World Event, Mrs Helen Izore; and Proprietress of Victorious Mega Kitchen, Mrs Mabel Iyonagbe, spoke about their personal struggles, business setbacks, betrayal and humble beginnings.
Through their stories, they demonstrated how determination, faith, resilience and continuous self-development could turn difficult experiences into successful enterprises and meaningful contributions to society.
They also encouraged women to own their stories rather than be ashamed of their struggles, noting that personal experiences could become a source of inspiration and encouragement to others.
In his welcome remarks, JoJo Dominic of Empire TV and Project Coordinator of the initiative, highlighted the important role women play as nurturers, mentors and pillars of society.
Dominic called for greater recognition of the achievements, abilities and potential of women from the South South region, particularly beyond traditional stereotypes.
Reflecting on his own experience in modelling and the influence of mentorship in his career, he stressed the need to guide young people away from cultism, violence and other negative influences.
He explained that South South Girls Rock was created to give young women access to networking opportunities, positive role models and a safe environment where they could engage in meaningful conversations, build relationships and discover opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The event, held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the New Civil Service Recreational Club and Event Centre in Benin City, brought together women from different backgrounds to share experiences, celebrate achievements and promote resilience, empowerment and personal development.
The gathering ended on a strong message: difficult seasons may leave scars, but they can also produce wisdom, strength and a renewed sense of purpose when women refuse to give up on themselves.
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