LASU longest road named Lateef Jakande Road, as institution celebrates iconic former Governor @90

It was the rain of encomiums as Lagos State University Faculty of Arts gathered who is who in Lagos and beyond to give honour to who it is due, and it was no other person than the iconic administrator, the former governor of Lagos State, Alhaji (Dr) Lateef Jakande who clocked 90 years. SUCCESS DAMIAN reports.

Happening at the main auditorium of the institution on Monday, July 22, Lagosians, Academics and non-academics, students, friends and well wishers were moved to the point of tears as encomiums flowed like river in honour of the former governor who made it to the institution despite his obvious age challenges.

Professor Olanrewaju Adigun Fagbohun, Vice Chancellor of the university while addressing the crowd that graced the occasion said “In 1983, LKJ had the opportunity to cast a stone across the waters. He did that so well that all of us today are beneficiaries of that vision.  LKJ conceived and signed into law the bill that brought the creation of this great institution. The creation of LASU positively impacted the lives of many.”

He disclosed that from just three faculties, 55 Admin Staff and 37 Technical Staff, and 375 students admitted, the institution has grown into three major campuses, Ojo, Epe and Ikeja. “Today, our institution is able to boast of 7 faculties, 4 Schools and 1 college. We are also able to boast of many Directorates. 

“Every year now, we admit over 6500 students from just 375 students in our first year. Think about it, if this genius of ideas did not conceive of LASU, what would have become the faith of these ones?”

Directing his thought to Pa Jakande, the VC said “You are revered as an example of Public Administration.  We at LASU count ourselves privileged that we are able to celebrate with you today. We rejoice with you and your family.

The Pro-chancellor of the institution, Professor Adebayo Ninalowo on his part said “Our world-class university was founded during the administration of Alh Lateef Jakande. It is therefore expedient that we celebrate his 90th birthday with a Lecture to be delivered by Prof. Hakeem Danmole.

“To immortalize this distinguished personality who has remained relevant in the scheme of things, the Council has decided to name an infrastructure in his name.”

Dean of Faculty Arts LASU in his address said “You are indeed a blessing from God. Your housing estates dot the nook and cranny of Lagos.

The Guest Speaker, Prof. Hakeem Danmole of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State said the enviable status which Lagos has attained was based on the solid foundation which was laid by Jakande and no administration in Lagos has touched lives as much as Jakande.