By Sesi Kantan As preparations gear up for a valedictory event next week, the administration of Hon. Gbenu Henugbe Joseph, Executive Chair...
By Sesi Kantan
As preparations gear up for a valedictory event next week, the administration of Hon. Gbenu Henugbe Joseph, Executive Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has released a detailed eight-year performance scorecard, putting to rest recent criticism surrounding a canoe presentation to fish farmers.
In a press release sent to Badagry Today by the Senior Special Assistant on Media, Hon. Zosu Solomon, it was stated that while the gesture of distributing canoes to local fishermen sparked some backlash online — with critics labeling it outdated in the modern era — the Council insists the intervention is deeply rooted in the unique needs of the riverine, agrarian communities that make up Badagry West. “To the average fisherman, a canoe is not just a vessel; it’s a lifeline,” the administration noted, defending the decision as practical.
But beyond the canoe, the Gbenu-led government rolled out a wide-ranging report of transformational projects it says have redefined governance at the grassroots. From education and healthcare to youth empowerment, infrastructure, and welfare, the administration highlighted tangible achievements that it believes will stand the test of time.
In the education sector, the Council built multiple primary schools across communities, including Salvation Army Primary School in Boglo, Methodist Primary Schools in Enuko and Kweme, and Our Lady of Fatimah School in Ganyingbo. The administration also supported thousands of students with bursaries, school uniforms, writing materials, and free GCE forms, while providing a school bus to ease student transportation.
Healthcare was another major focus. The Council constructed new Primary Health Centres (PHCs) at Apa and Boglo, rehabilitated others in Farasime and Apa, and acquired a functional ambulance. It also sponsored staff training with the Lagos State PHC Board and promoted health awareness events like the Badagry West Marathon.
On empowerment, Hon. Gbenu’s team distributed regular grants to Community Development Committees (CDCs), supported ITF trainees with starter packs, and ran targeted programs for youths, artisans, widows, and vulnerable groups. The local skills acquisition centre received both materials and financial support.
Infrastructure development was broad and visible. The administration built a motor park at Seme, rehabilitated roads in multiple communities, constructed 80 key-lamp shops, provided solar-powered streetlights, purchased official vehicles for councillors, and even procured transformers to boost electricity in underserved areas. An area office was built in Seme, and a 100kv generator installed at the LCDA Secretariat.
Community engagement also stood out. Monthly security and stakeholder meetings were held consistently. Persons with disabilities received wheelchairs. Gender-based violence and drug abuse were tackled through sensitization campaigns. Meanwhile, welfare packages — including discounted food markets and annual Christmas gifts for over 4,000 families — helped cushion economic pressures.
Looking ahead, several legacy projects are set for commissioning next week during the valedictory ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, July 24, 2025. These include a newly constructed Customary Court and administrative building within the council secretariat, a modern PHC in Boglo, the completion of Boglo Community Road, a new APA cemetery serving Christian and Muslim residents, and a fully renovated Sito-Gbethrome Secondary School classroom powered by solar energy and fitted with modern furniture.
Responding to critics, the administration emphasized that constructive feedback is welcome but must be grounded in truth. “This scorecard reflects years of deliberate planning, community inclusion, and a tireless commitment to grassroots development,” said Solomon Zosu, Senior Special Assistant on Information, Tourism and Special Works.
“As we round off this administration, we’re not making noise — we’re showing results,” Zosu added. “History will remember this government not for empty drama, but for real, measurable impact.”
The Gbenu administration, it seems, is determined to leave office not with controversy, but with a legacy built on service, relevance, and delivery.
ليست هناك تعليقات