The Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, congratulates the first civilian governor of the state, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, as he clocks 91 years of age.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, The Governor described Alhaji Jakande as an elder statesman worth celebrating for his exemplary life and his consistent commitment to public service.
Sanwo-Olu stated that Jakande is one of the few patriotic leaders who have contributed to the growth and development of the state and Nigeria as a whole. He further described the former Minister of Works as an embodiment of honesty, dedication and true service, who used his positions for the betterment of the people he served.
According to him, 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 defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded by the late sage and former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“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.
“Having distinguished himself as ‘Action Governor’ 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” He said
He stressed that, 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.
Sanwo-Olu added that Jakande’s selling point is not only in politics but journalism, his chosen profession. He 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,” he said.
He wished the nonagenarian leader more years of joy and good health for a continued service to humanity.
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