By Matthew Johnson

The Epe Division Professional Women’s Association, EPWA, has honoured a number of distinguished women for their contributions to the advancement of women, the girl-child and vulnerable groups in Lagos State and across Nigeria.

The recognition was bestowed at the EPWA 2026 Awards and Recognition for Excellence Ceremony held at the weekend in Epe, Lagos, with the theme: “Recognizing those whose contributions continue to inspire progress, empower communities and transform lives.”

Wife of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, represented by the wife of the Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Mrs. Oyeloluwa Akinloye, commended the association for its commitment to promoting the welfare of women and vulnerable persons.

She hailed EPWA’s dedication to excellence, mentorship and community development, noting that the event was organised to celebrate women whose leadership and service have positively impacted society.

According to her, the progress of any society is closely tied to the opportunities available for women to contribute meaningfully to leadership, governance and sustainable development.

She urged women to continue creating platforms that inspire, mentor and empower others to become agents of positive change.

Among those honoured were former Lagos State First Lady, Dame Adedoja Otedola; wife of former Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; and entrepreneur as well as Africa Representative of Angelo International, Dr. Titilope Ejimagwa.

The awardees were recognised for their various interventions in education, leadership development, entrepreneurship and social welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of future generations.

Speaking at the event, President of EPWA, Mrs. Folake Olayemi, said the awards were instituted to celebrate excellence and acknowledge women whose contributions have inspired positive change within and beyond Epe Division.

She described the recipients as role models whose lives and achievements should serve as inspiration to younger generations.

According to her, the association has continued to impact lives through capacity-building initiatives and humanitarian interventions aimed at restoring hope to disadvantaged members of society.
She said: “These women are our heroes and role models. We want young girls to emulate them because they have touched the lives of the vulnerable and supported brilliant young girls who lacked the financial means to pursue their dreams.
“They have contributed immensely to the development of many people and communities,” she said.
Olayemi added that EPWA remained committed to empowering women, girls and widows through programmes designed to promote self-reliance and community development”, Olayemi said.
Responding on behalf of the award recipients, Mrs Ejimagwa expressed appreciation to the association for the honour and called on women to support one another in their pursuit of success.
She said: “When women support one another, more people are lifted. Women should not be confined to the kitchen or the bedroom alone.
“The future belongs to them. Women should not be subservient. You can become anything you desire through determination and hard work.
“Go out there and help other women, and together we will all succeed”, Ejimagwa said
Also speaking, Jessica Bewaji, who represented Mrs Bolanle Ambode, commended EPWA for the recognition and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the less privileged.