His Excellency Alhaji (Dr) Lateef Kayode Jakande CON was not just a man, but a man of vision, an icon personified. He is a legend. He was an epitome of perseverance, longsuffering and unwavering commitment to achieving the near impossible.
As Governor of Lagos State during the second republic (1979 – 1983), he exemplified vision, sacrifice, honesty in the people-oriented programs and projects he executed. Many of the institutions and estates that dot the Lagos landscape are products of his imagination and leadership.
As Minister for Works (1993 – 1998), he strived to replicate at the national level, through the public service, the wonderful feats he had brought into care for housing the downtrodden that he did in Lagos State. Alas, many factors including bureaucracy amongst other factors hindered the project.
When the Presidential Technical Board (PTB) of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) headed by Professor Akin Mabogunje was established. The PTB noted the need for the establishment of institutions that will drive developments in the housing sector value chain, hence the establishment of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) and the Building Materials Producers Association of Nigeria (BUMPAN), in addition to the existing Mortgage Banking Association of Nigeria (MBAN).
Arising from the above, it was pertinent that the institution had to be established. Right from the beginning, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande CON, took up the gauntlet and responsibility to bring to life, REDAN. The former Governor of Lagos State, former Minister of Housing found in the new Association the urge to serve. Unperturbed that he had held sway in those high offices, the man of the moment did not look down on the new, about to be formed Association. He willingly accepted to be the Pioneer President of the Association, LKJ gave his all – selflessly to ensure that the association remain alive. He did not waiver. He served REDAN from 2002 to 2009 as the Chief Executive
LKJ traversed the length & breadth of this country calling on men and women to find it expedient to be members of the association that will serve as the manager of the interests of other stakeholders in the real estate space. His devotion to duty, exemplary lifestyle and uncommon capacity for devotion to duty and helping the masses resonated deeply with the society. It is very safe to state that the late Jakande succeeded in raising successors, who are inspired, motivated and determined to carry on the task of being the voice of the voiceless in the Board room of decision making in Nigeria and beyond.
It was based on these achievements and sacrifices that the National Executive Council of Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria on the 10th of Dec 2018 under the leadership of Rev.Igochukwu chime ,approved the decision to honour the Pioneer President of the association by conferring on him a life patron status and institute an annual Lecture Series in his name.
The decision was informed by the need for the association to celebrate a man whose achievements in the housing sector remains unrivalled and also hoping that by the remembrance of the character disposition of the icon, a role model that will inspire, motivate and raise successors who will carry the battle forward will be discovered.
His activities and influence were beyond REDAN.
The Alhaji Jakande Lecture series, has been amongst others, an avenue where critical matters in the housing sector are analysed, discussed, practical solutions proffered and an avenue for stakeholders to interface government at all levels on the formulation of policies that will positively unveil and utilize the potentials in the housing industry for employment generation, increase socio-economic growth, enhance security and increase GDP/IGR.
Alhaji Lateef Jakande will always be celebrated as one who rendered selfless and diligent service. He will always be appreciated as a legend and icon to serve as an inspiration to others.
The most fitting tribute to Alhaji Lateef Jakande by our current leaders will be wholesale emulation of his exemplary lifestyle and uncommon dedication to the service of the people. A truly great man!
