Lateef Jakande

Early Life and Background

Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande was born on July 23, 1929, in the Epetedo area of Lagos Island, which was then part of the British Colony of Lagos. Although details about his immediate parents are not extensively documented, his upbringing in a modest family instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and a desire for public service. His early life was characterized by a commitment to education, even as he navigated the limited opportunities available during the colonial era. From a young age, Jakande displayed an inquisitive mind and a keen interest in current affairs, which would later steer him towards a career in journalism and, subsequently, politics.

Education

Jakande's educational journey began at the Lagos Public School at Enu-Owa, Lagos Island, where he received his foundational primary education. He later attended Banham Memorial School in Port Harcourt from 1934 to 1943, where he completed his elementary schooling. His secondary education took him briefly to King's College, Lagos, a prestigious institution, before he transferred to Ilesha Grammar School in Ilesha, Osun State. It was at Ilesha Grammar School, from 1943 to 1949, that Jakande's interest in writing and communication truly blossomed. While there, he not only pursued his academic studies but also received training in journalism, a path that would define his early career. Despite not attending a university in the conventional sense, Jakande was a self-taught intellectual, continuously expanding his knowledge through reading and practical experience, which served him well in his distinguished career.

Career

Lateef Jakande's career began in journalism, a field where he quickly made a name for himself. He started as a reporter for the 'Daily Service' in 1949. His exceptional talent and dedication saw him move to the 'Nigerian Tribune' in 1950, a newspaper founded by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who would become his political mentor. By 1953, he had risen to become the Editor of the 'Nigerian Tribune', a position he held with distinction. In 1959, he was appointed the Managing Director of Allied Newspapers of Nigeria, further solidifying his influence in the media landscape. Jakande was also a pioneer in professionalizing journalism in Nigeria; he was the first President of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ).

His transition into politics was a natural progression, heavily influenced by his close association with Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the Action Group. With the return to civilian rule in 1979, Jakande contested and won the gubernatorial election of Lagos State under the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). He served as the first civilian Governor of Lagos State from October 1, 1979, to December 31, 1983, when the military coup led by Major General Muhammadu Buhari terminated the Second Republic. Following the coup, Jakande, along with other political leaders, was arrested and imprisoned. He was later released. A controversial chapter in his political life occurred during the military regime of General Sani Abacha, when he accepted an appointment as the Minister of Works and Housing from 1993 to 1998. This decision drew criticism from many of his former political allies and progressives, who viewed it as a compromise of the principles he had long upheld, especially given Abacha's autocratic rule. Despite the controversy, Jakande defended his decision as an attempt to continue serving the people.

Major Achievements

As Governor of Lagos State, Lateef Jakande's administration was characterized by an unprecedented pace of development and people-oriented policies, earning him the moniker 'Baba Kekere' (a reference to Awolowo, 'Baba' and Jakande, his 'small father' or loyal follower). His achievements are numerous and remain foundational to modern Lagos:

• Education: He introduced a highly successful free education program at all levels, eliminating tuition fees and providing free textbooks. To accommodate the massive influx of students, his government constructed thousands of new classrooms, with over 11,000 classrooms built within his four-year tenure. He also established the Lagos State University (LASU) in 1983, a landmark achievement that provided affordable tertiary education to countless citizens.
• Housing: Jakande's administration embarked on an ambitious low-cost housing scheme, delivering over 30,000 housing units across various estates, including Amuwo Odofin, Ijaiye, Dolphin, Ipaja, Abesan, and Iponri. These homes were designed to be affordable for the average Lagosian, significantly addressing the housing deficit in the rapidly growing state.
• Healthcare: He implemented a free healthcare program and established numerous general hospitals and primary health centers across the state, expanding access to medical services for the populace.
• Infrastructure: His government initiated and completed several critical infrastructure projects. These included the construction and rehabilitation of numerous roads, such as the Epe-Ijebu-Ode road, the expansion of the Badagry Expressway, and the initiation of the Lekki-Epe Expressway. His administration also focused on rural electrification and water projects, extending essential services to underserved communities.
• Transportation: Perhaps his most visionary project was the initiation of the Lagos Metroline (light rail) system. This groundbreaking mass transit project aimed to alleviate Lagos's notorious traffic congestion. Although preliminary work began, the project was unfortunately cancelled by the subsequent military government of Major General Muhammadu Buhari in 1983, a decision widely regarded as a significant setback for the state's urban development.
• Public Service: Jakande significantly improved the welfare of civil servants, ensuring timely payment of salaries and benefits, which boosted morale and efficiency within the state's bureaucracy.

Personal Life

Lateef Jakande was married to Alhaja Abimbola Sikirat Jakande, who was a constant source of support throughout his political and public life. Together, they raised children, including Deji Jakande, who has also ventured into politics, serving as a member of the House of Representatives. Jakande was known for his simple lifestyle, frugality, and dedication to public service. He lived in a modest home, even as governor, a testament to his belief in leading by example and avoiding ostentation. His personal integrity and commitment to the welfare of the common person were hallmarks of his character. He remained active in public discourse and mentorship even in his later years, often advising younger generations of politicians.

Legacy

Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande passed away on February 11, 2021, at the age of 91, leaving behind an indelible legacy as one of Nigeria's most impactful and visionary leaders. He is widely celebrated as the architect of modern Lagos, whose policies laid the groundwork for the state's rapid urbanization and development. His commitment to welfarism, particularly in education and housing, transformed the lives of millions of Lagosians. He demonstrated that good governance, focused on the needs of the common people, could achieve remarkable results even with limited resources. Despite the controversy surrounding his role in the Abacha regime, his earlier tenure as governor remains the benchmark for progressive and selfless leadership in Lagos State. Jakande's name is synonymous with accessible education, affordable housing, and essential infrastructure, making him an enduring symbol of dedicated public service and a true 'People's Governor'. His pioneering efforts continue to inspire urban planners and policymakers across Nigeria and beyond.