The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olamilekan Dauda (AKOD), on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, rounded off activities marking his first anniversary in office with the distribution of food palliatives to more than 1,000 vulnerable residents at the Council Secretariat, Ikeja.
The initiative, organised under the theme, “Caring for Our People, Supporting Our Community, Building a Better Ikeja,” featured the distribution of 10kg bags of rice, 5kg of beans and 5kg of garri to beneficiaries as part of the administration’s Renewed Hope Food Palliative Programme.
In her welcome address, the Council Manager, Mrs Juliana Taiwo Odubeko, said the initiative was designed to cushion the effects of food scarcity while demonstrating the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and well-being of residents.
She noted that the various projects and interventions undertaken by the administration would not have been possible without the support, cooperation and prayers of the people, commending Ikeja residents for their continued support as the council marked its first year in office.
Reflecting on his 365 days in office, Chairman Dauda said the food palliative programme was part of his administration’s efforts to support residents and give back to the community in its own little way.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and general well-being of residents while fulfilling the campaign promises contained in the Ikeja Agenda.
The anniversary programme attracted APC leaders, stakeholders, members and supporters across Ikeja, as well as members of the council’s executive, legislators, supervisors, special advisers and management staff.
Ikeja Farmers Association Honours AKOD
A major highlight of the event was the conferment of a Patron Award on Chairman Dauda by the Ikeja Farmers Association in recognition of his commitment, dedication and leadership role in promoting agricultural development in the local government.
The association also presented its members’ database handbook to the chairman, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening agricultural development and contributing to food production and security in Ikeja.
13 Retirees Honoured
The anniversary activities also featured the recognition of retirees who had completed 35 years of meritorious service to Ikeja Local Government.
Thirteen retirees received certificates and gifts in appreciation of their dedication and selfless service to the council.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Council Manager, Mrs Odubeko, encouraged the retirees to embrace the next phase of their lives with optimism, stressing that retirement should not be regarded as the end of life but as an opportunity to engage in meaningful and productive activities.
She urged them to consider community service, agriculture, entrepreneurship and other profitable ventures that could provide fulfilment and continued relevance.
Chairman Dauda, who was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Prince Adeyinka Illo, commended the retirees for their years of dedication, commitment and selfless service to Ikeja Local Government.
Responding on behalf of the retirees, Mrs Ruth Lawal expressed appreciation to Chairman Dauda for his support and encouragement during his first year in office.
She commended the chairman for maintaining a cordial relationship with council staff and for the various laudable projects executed by his administration within the year.
Mrs Lawal also appreciated the Council Manager, Mrs Juliana Taiwo Odubeko, and the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Comrade Olusegun Jubril, for their support, encouragement and contributions to the welfare of staff throughout their years of service.
