Eko Mi Award: AKOD celebrates one year of impact, reaffirms commitment to Ikeja’s development

Michael Olumide Alabi

Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has been honoured with the prestigious Eko Mi Award in recognition of his exemplary leadership, remarkable performance and commitment to grassroots development.

The award was presented during a colourful ceremony held at the MUSON Centre, Lagos, where distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of Lagos State were celebrated.

Among other eminent personalities honoured at the event were Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo; the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. James Faleke; the Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom, HRM Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Segun Olulade (Eleniyan); Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Abimbola Bada, and several other notable public office holders.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Dauda expressed appreciation to the organisers for recognising the achievements of his administration barely one year after assuming office. He described the honour as a motivation to redouble his efforts in delivering quality governance and sustainable development to the people of Ikeja.

The council chairman noted that his administration has recorded remarkable progress under the I.K.E.J.A. Agenda, particularly in the area of infrastructure.

According to him, the administration has successfully constructed and rehabilitated about eight roads, executed extensive drainage projects aimed at addressing flooding, and renovated public schools to improve the learning environment for pupils.

He also highlighted the administration’s investments in education and youth empowerment through the Back-to-School Initiative, educational support programmes, entrepreneurship and business empowerment schemes designed to improve livelihoods and stimulate economic growth.

Dauda further disclosed that work is ongoing on an ICT Academy that will equip young people in Ikeja with digital and technological skills, positioning them to compete effectively in the evolving global economy.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to responsive and people-oriented governance, the council boss assured residents that more developmental projects and social intervention programmes would be rolled out to improve living standards across the local government.

He stressed that the recognition would serve as an encouragement to continue pursuing policies and initiatives that promote inclusive growth, infrastructural renewal, youth development and improved service delivery.

Dedicating the award, Dauda said the honour belongs to the good people of Ikeja Local Government, the management and staff of the council, as well as the political leadership whose support has contributed to the successes recorded by his administration.

He also paid glowing tribute to his late political mentor and leader, Chief Mrs. Kemi Nelson (Yeyesewa), describing her as a selfless leader whose legacy of service, courage and dedication to humanity continues to inspire his leadership style.

The award, he said, is a reminder that purposeful leadership anchored on integrity, hard work and commitment to the people will always attract recognition, adding that his administration remains focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to every resident of Ikeja Local Government.