EPE News

AGM And Retreat: Opeluwa Balogun Concludes Tenure As Folakemi Johnson Becomes EPWA President

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1 month ago

Oct 19, 2024.

The peaceful coastal town of Idado in Ibeju-Lekki came alive with grace, joy, and a strong sense of community as the Epe Division Professional Women Association (EPWA) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and three-day retreat.

The event celebrated the conclusion of President Opeluwa Balogun’s successful tenure and marked the beginning of a new chapter for the association.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the retreat began on Friday at the scenic Lagos Palm Beach Resort, where women from across the Epe Division gathered to unwind and strengthen their bonds.

The weekend was filled with engaging activities, including fun games and exercises on the beach led by a professional instructor, promoting physical wellness and camaraderie.

On Saturday, members, dressed in colorful African prints, eagerly listened to candidates’ manifestos during the election of new executive officers.

The session was facilitated by Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman Mrs. Adedeji, Pioneer President Mrs. Funke Moore, and Alhaja Tairu, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared vision.

EPWA’s Powerhouse Opeluwa Balogun Hands Over To New President

Despite heavy rain later in the evening, the retreat’s festive spirit continued with a lavish dinner and lively entertainment, where the women danced into the night, led by MC Kakalistiq.

Sunday’s AGM was an emotional affair as outgoing President Opeluwa Balogun delivered her farewell speech, reflecting on her two-year term from October 2022 to 2024.

She proudly highlighted EPWA’s achievements, including empowering over 20 women with vocational tools, organizing community outreach programs, and securing official registration with the Lagos State Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA).

“Our association has made great strides,” Balogun said. “We’ve empowered women, launched community projects, and built a lasting legacy.”

Outgoing Treasurer Alhaja Kunle Lawal presented a financial report, followed by a constitutional review and the swearing-in of the new executive team, led by incoming President Mrs. Folakemi Johnson, an experienced administrator and human resources professional.

Mrs. Johnson’s vision for EPWA focuses on inclusivity, unity, and building on the foundation of excellence laid by her predecessors.

“We will continue to thrive through togetherness and love,” Mrs. Johnson said. “Every member is valued, and together, we will achieve great things.”

The event concluded with an awards ceremony honoring notable contributions, including Mrs. Balogun receiving the EPWA Innovative Solutions Award and Alhaja Alade Raji being recognized for Outstanding Achievement.

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EPWA’s Powerhouse Opeluwa Balogun Hands Over To New President

As the AGM and retreat came to a close, EPWA stood united, ready to embrace the future with renewed leadership and a continued commitment to uplifting women and fostering community development across the Epe Division.

“This event embodies our strength, unity, and purpose,” said BOT Chairman Mrs. Kemi Adedeji. “We are confident that EPWA will reach even greater heights in the coming years.”

Indeed, the unity and progress that echoed through Idado signal a bright future for EPWA, as its members look ahead to building a stronger, more inclusive community.