In a celebration woven with compassion, service, and inclusivity, the Epe Division Professional Women Association (EPWA) marked the continuation of its 10th anniversary events across multiple venues in Epe Division, symbolically reflecting the association’s reach and impact across communities.
From Owu-Ikosi in Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, where a free medical outreach brought relief to residents, to Odomola Central Mosque in Eredo LCDA, where heartfelt prayers were offered, and finally to the elegant Royal Waterfront Suites in Epe, where members gathered for an anniversary dinner, the day’s activities captured EPWA’s enduring commitment to humanity, particularly the girl-child and women.
During a lively game session at the dinner, Mrs. Folake Oluyemi Johnson, President of EPWA, delivered a stirring message of hope and empathy for women in marginalized areas.
“If I become the Governor of Lagos State for one day, I’ll dedicate my time to the upliftment of the girl-child and women from Ibeju-Lekki,” she declared.
Her words carried emotion and conviction as she described the daily struggles of women in the coastal communities of Tiye, Ise, Folu, Magbon-Segun, Imobido and other parts of Ibeju-Lekki.
“Those women in that area are totally cut off from society because of their early struggles at life. As innocent young girls while growing up, men get them pregnant and along the line, they find it difficult to live sustainably due to the painful challenges of raising the child and their personal survival,” she said.
“They grow with psychological and mental stress, encounter various degrees of health challenges, and some die in the process. It’s disheartening to see what the girl-child and women go through in remote coastal communities,” she added solemnly.
Earlier at the Odomola Central Mosque, the Chief Imam, Fadeelatul Sheikh Alhaji Muhammad Jamiu Olufowobi, led special prayers for the growth, prosperity, and success of the association and its members. He commended EPWA’s philanthropic gestures, noting that their efforts to uplift lives were in line with Islamic moral principles.
Addressing the Ulamas, EPWA’s Vice President, Hon. Kehinde Kadri, explained that the choice of Odomola Mosque was a mark of respect to HRM Oba Adeshina Adebowale, the Omola of Odomola. She also used the occasion to highlight the association’s decade-long record of impactful initiatives.
“We support brilliant female students by rewarding them with cash. We’ve paid school fees for brilliant students in distress, conducted numerous free medical missions, girls’ summits, and empowerment programs across the division in the last 10 years,” she stated.
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At Owu-Ikosi, the medical outreach further demonstrated EPWA’s compassion in action. More than 100 residents received free medical consultations and medications.
Veteran journalist Mrs. Funke Moore and the immediate past president, Mrs. Balogun Opeoluwa, emphasized the strategic choice of the venue to ensure inclusivity across all parts of Epe Division.
“Epe Division belongs to all and it’s important for us to ensure that everyone feels that sense of belonging. No community is left behind in our programs and events,” Mrs. Balogun affirmed.
From prayers and health support to advocacy and celebration, EPWA’s 10th anniversary stood as a testament to unity, compassion, and the enduring power of women coming together to transform their communities.
