By: Manoah kikekon
As Hon. Gbenu Henugbe Joseph’s tenure as Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA nears its end, his administration has released an extensive scorecard showcasing transformative projects executed over the past eight years.
The move comes amid recent debates over the symbolic presentation of canoes to local fishermen a gesture critics dismissed but beneficiaries hailed as a lifeline in the riverine community.
In a press release made available to journalists on Saturday it States "Detractors may mock the canoe initiative, but in Badagry West a predominantly agrarian and fishing community such interventions are far from trivial. For local fishermen, a canoe is an essential tool for survival, not an outdated relic. By providing these vessels free of charge, the Gbenu administration directly addressed economic hardship, empowering fishermen to sustain their livelihoods."
However, this is just one of many grassroots interventions that have shaped the council area’s development.
From constructing five new primary schools to distributing annual bursaries, uniforms, and GCE forms, the administration prioritized education as a cornerstone of development.
The provision of a school bus and consistent Children’s Day celebrations further underscored its commitment to youth empowerment. These efforts ensure that Badagry West’s children are not left behind in Lagos State’s educational advancement.
The construction and rehabilitation of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), including modern facilities in Apa and Boglo, have improved access to medical services.
An ambulance was also procured for emergencies, while road rehabilitations, solar-powered streetlights, and transformer installations boosted infrastructure. Notably, the Owode-Farasime road reconstruction preceded federal intervention, proving the council’s proactive approach.
Through biannual cash grants, skills acquisition support, and widow empowerment schemes, the administration directly impacted livelihoods. Annual Christmas packages reached over 4,000 families, while discounted food markets provided relief during economic hardships. Such initiatives demonstrate a governance model rooted in inclusivity and compassion.
Ahead of the July 24 valedictory event, key projects like the Boglo Community Road, Customary Court, and a newly renovated secondary school will be commissioned. These final touches cement Gbenu’s legacy as a leader who prioritized tangible development over political theatrics.
While critics focus on isolated gestures, the full scorecard reveals an administration that delivered strategic, life-changing projects. As Badagry West prepares for a transition, history will remember Gbenu’s tenure not for controversies but for impactful governance where every canoe, classroom, and clinic built a stronger community.