EKO NEWS

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

Published

1 year ago

Nov 24, 2023.

Situated next to the Ibeju Lekki axis, and only about 67 km away from Lekki Phase 1, a prime area in Lagos State, Epe was naturally designed with unlimited opportunity for growth and development.

This geographic advantage, coupled with the serene and tranquil environment, has continued to attract patronage from government and private investors alike.

Upon realizing the enormous potential for growth and development in Epe LG, the Lagos State government has, in recent years initiated some pivotal projects and infrastructural facilities in the area.

These include the new Lekki Free Trade Zone area located in the heart of Epe. The zone is set to have benefits for organizations, such as tax-free operations, among others. These benefits have led to the location of some other major projects such as the Dangote Group’s refinery and Petrochemical park, Dangote Fertilizer Plant, Lekki Deep Sea Port, as well as the proposed International Airport.

Lekki Free Zone

The State government has also recently completed the construction of Ibeju Lekki-Epe Expressway road, which is a notable addition to the infrastructure in the area.

On the political scene, Epe also has an abundance of prominent political heavyweights with an impeccable career in public office at both Federal and state level. Former Governor, Akinkunmi Ambode, former Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, and Honorable Wale Raji, to mention but a few.

It is not, however, surprising when the current chairperson of the local government, Princess Surah Adeola Animashaun, took the bull by the horn from where her predecessors left off. Such is the zeal, the enthusiasm and result-oriented nature of all Epe sons and daughters.

Epe LG Chairman, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, receiving her certificate of return from Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in July 2021

Even as the first female political head of the fishing Capital of Lagos, Princess Animashaun wasted no time settling into the office before she began delivering on her campaign promises. Since assuming the office in July 2021, the Chairperson has achieved tremendous success in the various development initiatives she championed.

The local government has witnessed substantial infrastructural development, ranging from improved road networks to modernized public facilities. These initiatives have not only enhanced the overall quality of life for residents but have also attracted investments, fostering economic growth within the region.

Princess Animashaun’s emphasis on education has been a driving force behind the educational transformation in Epe. She has championed projects aimed at upgrading schools, providing necessary resources, and promoting educational programs.

Distribution of learning materials and infrastructures to schools

Also, Princess Animashaun has been a proponent of healthcare improvements within the local government. Under her watch, Epe has a experienced advancements in healthcare infrastructure, accessibility, and the quality of services. This has contributed significantly to the well-being of the community, ensuring that residents have access to essential healthcare services.

In the realm of community engagement, Princess Animashaun has fostered a sense of inclusivity and participatory governance. Her administration has implemented community development projects based on the needs and aspirations of the residents. This approach has not only strengthened the bond between the local government and its people but has also empowered the community to actively contribute to its development.

Princess Animashaun’s At the commissioning of a health facility

While marking her 100 days in office in 2021, the chairperson boasted a long list of socio-economic impacts, such as 39 schools, the construction of blocks of classrooms, the construction of boreholes, the provision of ambulances and staff buses, as well as road construction with streetlights.

Others included the recruitment of teachers, rehabilitation and training of local security officials such as OPC and Ibile, empowerment of artisans, welfare support for the aged and widows, and the commemoration of World Tourism Day with the launch of Epe Alaro Tourism.

Economic empowerment initiatives were also given the serious attention they deserve under 100 days of Princess Surah Animashaun’s leadership in Epe. Through skill acquisition programs, job creation schemes, and support for local businesses, she displayed uncommon commitment to uplifting the economic status of the residents.

Programmes Commissioning During her 100 Days In Office

The remarkable leadership acumen of Princess Surah Animashaun has earned her recognition from far and near. One of such accolades was a the award of excellence presented to her by the National Union Of Local Government Employee (NULGE) following the declaration of Epe LG as one of the best 28 out 774 Local Government areas in the country

Award Of Excellence Presented to Princess Surah Animashaun

In the recently concluded voting exercise to determine the best-performing Local Government/LCDA for the Epe Division Community Annual Awards (EDCAA) 2023, voters willfully passed a resounding vote of confidence in Princess Animashaun’s administration as Epe Local Government emerged the winner with 44.1% of the 4, 177 total votes cast in that category.