The current ruling administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, of has congratulated Alhaji Lateef Jakande, former governor of Lagos State, on his 91 years birthday celebration.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Alhaji Jakande, as an elder statesman worth celebrating for his life of consistent commitment to public service. The Governor said Alhaji Jakande popularly referred to as ‘Baba Kekere’ brought a lot of development to Lagos State as governor between October 1,1979 and December 31, 1983 in line with the five cardinal programmes of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded by the late sage and former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He also described the former Minister Works as epitome of honesty, dedication and service, who used his elevated positions for the betterment of the people he served, especially during his tenure as governor of Lagos State. He said: “Alhaji Jakande’s administration introduced housing and educational programmes that targeted the poor, building new neighbourhood primary and secondary schools and providing free education for all. “Baba Jakande within his four years in office established the Lagos State University. His government constructed over 30,000 housing units. The schools and housing units were of great value to the masses. “Having distinguished himself as ‘Action Governor’ Alhaji Jakande was appointed Minister of Works under the Sani Abacha regime. He proved his worth in office by building thousands of housing units in different parts of Nigeria as Federal Low Cost Housing Estates. The governor added that Alhaji Jakande’s selling point is not only in politics but journalism, his chosen profession. “Alhaji Jakande also made remarkable contribution to the media industry as a respected journalist and media manager. He used the power of the press to influence positive changes in the country’s social and political landscape.”
On his part, Rt Hon Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa ,the Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, says ‘I celebrate a man of distinct success ,a true servant of the people, Alhaji Lateef Jakande. The quality of your work while in Government still speaks volumes about your dedication, commitment, forthrightness and passion, for the well being and the development of the state. Even after 40 years of your administration ,your legacies are still widely acclaimed as monumental in Lagos state.
