The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has announced that the fourth Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture will take place on July 23 in Lagos. This year’s event will focus on the role of the media, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and voters in delivering credible elections in Nigeria.
The lecture will begin at 11 a.m. at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja. It is themed, “The Media, INEC, Voters and Path to Credible Elections.” The event will bring together media leaders, public officials, academics and civil society representatives to discuss ways of strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Fayemi to chair event
The guild said Prof. Sylvester Odion of Lagos State University will deliver the memorial lecture. Meanwhile, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi will chair the event.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will attend as the Chief Host and Special Guest of Honour. In addition, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, is expected at the programme.
The NGE also said veteran journalist and publisher Sam Amuka, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, editors, media executives and civil society leaders would participate. Journalism lecturers and students from tertiary institutions are also expected to attend.
NGE highlights Jakande’s legacy
In a statement signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the guild said it introduced the annual lecture in 2023 to preserve the legacy of the late Lateef Jakande.
The guild described Jakande as an accomplished journalist, a former NGE president, former governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works. According to the statement, the annual lecture creates a platform for journalists, policymakers and civil society groups to discuss governance, nation-building and the role of the media in sustaining democracy.
Lecture to promote dialogue on elections
The guild said the memorial lecture has continued to encourage policy discussions on issues affecting Nigeria. It also serves as a forum for meaningful conversations on democracy and electoral reforms.
Furthermore, the NGE said it invites journalism and mass communication students every year to interact with experienced media professionals. The guild added that the initiative helps young journalists learn ethical standards while drawing inspiration from Jakande’s legacy of public service and professional excellence.
