Epe Division Community Annual Award: Beading Our Daughter’s Waist

By Otunba T J Abass

Architects of change and sculptors of destiny do not walk around holding chisels and measuring tapes; they are ordinary people wielding ideas and shaping the landscapes of possibility, not with physical tools but with the intangible forces of inspiration, passion, and a relentless commitment to forging a better tomorrow.

Editor’s Pick:

• Eko Hot Blog Wins Media Company Of The Year At EDCAA 2023

• Otunba TJ Abass Named Epe Division’s Philanthropist Of The Year

As I sit here, reminiscing about the developmental transformation that Epe Division has experienced, I am filled with a sense of gratitude to the cast and crew – political gladiators, royal institutions, sons and daughters of the land – who have played key roles in making the Epe Division a blockbuster that it is now.

The 2023 Epe Division Community Annual Award is not just about dishing out trophies; it is a way of quietly building influence, fostering connections and lifting spirits. It’s a gentle nod that says, “Hey, we see what you’re doing, and it matters”; it is a morale booster for good deeds, like shoving a spoonful of Glucose D powder in the mouth of an athlete. And I daresay that everyone who has contributed to the growth of this division deserves appreciation. This award is a spotlight on our shared success.

The shared victory of Epe Division speaks to how we as a people have forced our petty differences to take the back seat while our common goal takes the center stage, mirroring the wise words of Martin Luther King (Jr.): “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy”.

The resilience and persistence of Epe sons and daughters in pursuit of communal good outweighs every obstacle, and EDCAA 2023 succinctly captures the essence of our shared journey, the resilience that defines us and the thread that weaves the tapestry of our collective experiences.

With this award, Epe Division is fastening the straps of coral beads around the waist of her own daughter, honouring the Yoruba proverb: Omo eni o ki n sedi bebere, ka fileke sidi omo elomiran.

It is more than a platform where sons and daughters of the division, friends and family members have the opportunity of online voting to choose the prime candidate for the coveted Epe Division Award among the nominated individuals who have played pivotal roles in the development of the division across the socioeconomic, political strata.

It is more than e-voting but a recognition and celebration of the selflessness and altruistic tendencies displayed by these nominees, as well as the contribution of other patriotic indigenes whose names did not make it to the nomination list.

For over three weeks, the Epe Division was a focal point of global attention, with nominees using their global influence to compete in the final days, a notable shift from the laid-back and cavalier approach observed in the early stages of the contest.

The entire community was on the edge. The Epe Division Award provides the opportunity to rewrite the community’s history while transparently and democratically celebrating the contributions of specific individuals, all without compromising the integrity of the entire process.

Hats off to the dedicated organisers who’ve skillfully rewritten our community’s narrative and thrust it onto the global stage. Each individual on the list is a winner, having left an indelible mark on the historical canvas of this division. I unequivocally state that we are all winners!

Eko Hot Blog as the Media of the Year

Bagging the Media of the Year Award for Eko Hot Blog feels like a pot of honey to me, and it marks the pinnacle of my journalism journey these past five years.

I jumped into journalism five years ago, fueled by a fiery passion to shake up our community’s story, using this profession as a powerhouse for positive change.

This award is the sweet cherry on top, making every bit of my effort and determination worthwhile.

I say this with a genuine sense of humility—we’ve made a difference. We’ve unearthed hidden talents and lent a helping hand; we have unearthed gems and shone a light on them; we have trodden in bushes to create a footpath for those coming behind us to the journalism empire.

*Most significantly, our services are rendered at no cost.*

The recognition isn’t just for us—it’s a celebration of the stories we’ve shared, the voices we’ve amplified, and the connections we’ve forged. This award belongs to every journalist in our community who has worked tirelessly to place our community on a global pedestal.

Together, we continue to amplify the voices of our community, shedding light on the stories that matter.

Our commitment to truth, empathy, and community-driven journalism remains unwavering.

Thank you for trusting us as your media source. Let’s continue weaving the rich tapestry of our community’s narrative together.

Let’s continue to amplify diverse perspectives, spark meaningful conversations, and build a stronger, more connected community through the power of media.

This award is a shared triumph! Together, we’ll navigate the future with informed and engaged citizens.

Thank you for this incredible honour!

Being Named the Philanthropist of the Year

May I take this moment to say that philanthropy is not about how large the pocket is but how large the heart is? A little bit of kindness can no doubt make the world a better place.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who believes in us, who voted for us, our dear friends, well-wishers, family and cherished readers worldwide. Your trust is our driving force.

This recognition isn’t just a pat on the back; it’s a spark, igniting our passion to keep nurturing conversations, promoting understanding, and steering positive transformations through our media. In unity, we write the script of our community.

This honor is more than a trophy; it’s a compass guiding our dedication to serving the community with unwavering integrity and a clear sense of purpose.

Further Reading: 

• Seriki Bamu, Elejinrin, Ikuforiji, Others Emerge Winners At CNI’s EDCAA 2023 (FULL LIST)

• Epe Local Government Shines Bright, Emerges Best Performing LG At EDCAA 2023

Thank you for the trust!

God bless EDCAA!

God Bless Epe Division!!

God bless Nigeria!!!

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