…Bauchi, Lagos, Ogun govs , information minister to grace occasion
By Oluseye Ojo
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) will host its 3rd Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture on July 23, 2025.
Jakande, a doyen of Nigerian journalism and governance, was governor of Lagos State from 1979 to 1983. He later served as Minister of Works during the military era. He was born on July 23, 1929 and died on February 11, 2021.
This year’s lecture, themed: “Journalism and the Challenge of Nation-Building in a Multi-Ethnic Society,” will bring together prominent leaders and media stakeholders to deliberate on the critical role of journalism in shaping Nigeria’s future.
The lecture, to be delivered by Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, will take place at the Edmark D’Podium International Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.
Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, will chair the event, while Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, will also honour the event as Guest of Honor.
A press statement issued on Friday by President of the NGE, Mr Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Mr Onuoha Ukeh, stated that the Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture series was instituted in 2023 by the guild to commemorate the late journalist and politician’s remarkable contributions to the journalism profession and public service.
The statement stated that Jakande’s legacy was marked by his commitment to truth, integrity, and nation-building, noting that the legacy has continued to inspire generations of journalists and leaders.
This year’s lecture, the statement revealed, would build on the success of the previous editions, which featured notable speakers such as Chief Felix Adenaike, a Fellow of NGE, in 2023, and Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of This Day/Arise TV, in 2024, which he delivered on the topic: ‘Rapidly Changing Media Landscape: Survival Strategies’.
The statement read in part: “The Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture series aims to celebrate Alhaji Jakande’s remarkable contributions to journalism, public service, and governance. His legacy serves as a model for future generations, and we are proud to continue this tradition.
“We look forward to another insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities in nation-building through journalism.”