The Executive Chairman, Epe Local Government Council Area of Lagos state, Hon. (Princess) Surah Olayemi Animashaun, has distributed General Certificate of Education (GCE) forms free to 200 indigent students in the council area.

While distributing the forms at the council secretariat in Ita-Marun, Epe, Princess Animashaun said the gesture was aimed at boosting and sustaining education in the council area by raising resourceful youths.

She said her administration was committed to the development and empowerment of the youths in the area, as well as to enable them take part in the forthcoming 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates.

Princess Animashaun noted that the gesture aimed to relieve parents of burdens and to support students’ educational pursuits, urging the beneficiaries to be resilient, positive, and optimistic, using her life as a testament to achieving success through determination.

“This gesture is about building the future of Epe. By investing in our youths, we are nurturing greatness and raising champions who will stand tall among their peers across Nigeria and beyond.

“I wish to implore the beneficiaries of this great gesture to be more focused on their academics and not to play with their future,” she stated.

Princess Animashaun emphasised that education remains the most powerful tool for transforming lives and communities, noting that the free GCE forms are more than just financial relief for parents, but representing hope, opportunity and a pathway to success for students that determined to excel despite economic challenges.

The council boss urged the students to stay focused on their education, shun violence, embrace patriotism, and strive for excellence.

“My advice to them is to get educated and not just certification, not just passing, but they should imbibe it in their lifestyle,” she said.

Beneficiaries and parents expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the intervention as a life-changing opportunity that eases the burden of examination costs while inspiring confidence in the local government’s commitment to inclusive growth.

Observers say the move reaffirms Princess Animashaun’s reputation as a people-focused leader who matches words with action. Under her administration, Epe has continued to record significant strides in education, empowerment, and community development.