Emmanuel lkpeama
Ikeja Local Government Chairman, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has reaffirmed his commitment to girl-child empowerment at a well-attended outreach event.
The programme featured inspiring addresses from Mrs. Fausat Temitope Dauda and Dr. Yemisi Anita Razak, urging girls to shun illicit drugs, acquire skills, and believe in themselves.
Investigator news reports that the event attracted notable dignitaries and stakeholders, including Barr. Bayo Ayo, Chief of Staff to the Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke; Hon. Ogunseye Rasheed Adisa (ORA), Leader of the Ikeja Legislative Arm; the Chief of Staff to the Ikeja Local Government Chairman; Chief Adeyi Adeniyi, among others.
In his address,Comrade AKOD shared his personal story of resilience and perseverance, recounting his journey from humble beginnings to public service leadership.
He charged the girls to understand that there are no excuses for failure, stressing that determination, discipline and hard work can enable anyone to succeed against all odds.
He reiterated that Ikeja Local Government remains committed to policies and programmes that uplift women and the girl-child, noting that empowering young girls today is a direct investment in a stronger, more prosperous Ikeja tomorrow.
Comrade AKOD announced the establishment of the Fathia Balogun’s Office, a safe space for girls to seek counselling, educational support, and report challenges.
Earlier, the convener of the programme, Mrs. Fathia Williams Balogun, expressed profound gratitude to Chairman AKOD and his entourage for honouring the invitation, supporting the initiative and making the event memorable.
She described the partnership with Ikeja Local Government as impactful and deeply encouraging.
The Special Guest of Honour at the event was the wife of the Executive Chairman, Mrs. Fausat Temitope Dauda, who delivered an inspiring and heartfelt address to the young girls in attendance.
She passionately urged them to shun illicit drugs, embrace discipline, acquire relevant skills and strive to be productive, self-reliant and valuable members of society.
Also present was Dr. Yemisi Anita Razak, Director of Budget and Planning, Ikeja Local Government, who encouraged the girls to believe strongly in themselves and their potential.
Using her personal journey as a living example, she demonstrated that with determination, focus and self-confidence, the girl-child can rise, excel and break barriers in any chosen field.
The event featured Nollywood stars who attended the event and adding colour and excitement to the programme.
At the end of the outreach, the girls expressed appreciation to Mrs. Fathia Williams Balogun as they all went home with food items, sanitary wares and other valuable gifts provided by the organiser.and ended with gifts for attendees.