Former Lagos deputy governor Sinatu Ojikutu and Abimbola Jakande, wife of the late former Lagos governor Lateef Jakande, on Wednesday attended the third edition of the Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in Ikeja, Lagos.
Held at the Edmark D’Podium International Event Center, the event drew an impressive assembly of media veterans, public office holders and political leaders to honour the legacy of the late journalist, statesman and first civilian governor of Lagos.
The memorial lecture is chaired by renowned academic and public intellectual, Professor Lai Olurode.
This year’s theme, “Journalism and the Challenges of Nation-Building in a Multi-Ethnic Society”, addresses the vital role of the press in fostering unity, ensuring accountability and supporting democratic governance in Nigeria’s complex sociopolitical landscape.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who is billed to deliver the keynote lecture, was represented by his chief of staff, Aminu Gimbawa.
In his remarks, Mr Gimbawa stressed the importance of credible journalism in safeguarding national interest and bridging societal divides.
Other dignitaries in attendance include former presidential spokesman and current executive secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Femi Adesina, Punch Newspapers managing director/editor-in-chief, Joseph Adeyeye, former Osun State commissioner for information, Funke Egbemode, veteran journalist Najeem Jimoh and Bauchi State commissioner for information, Usman Shehu.
The memorial lecture series, now in its third year, celebrates Mr Jakande’s enduring contributions to journalism and public service.
Fondly remembered as “Baba Kekere,” Jakande was a founding member of the NGE and a trailblazer in progressive governance.
His tenure as Lagos governor from 1979 to 1983 was widely praised for visionary policies, especially in housing, education and infrastructure.
