Jacob Akindele passes on at 77

Prince Jacob Olubanji Akindele has passed on at the age of 77, after a brief illness.

The retired economist, writer and renowned sports journalist was a distinguished visiting member of The Guardian Editorial Board.

His son, Mr. Bababode Akindele, yesterday, confirmed the death of Prince Akindele, who breathed his last on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at the Duchess Hospital in Ikeja, where he had been recuperating.

The family expressed appreciation to members of the public that availed their support, prayers, and generous donations while the battle lasted.

The Editorial Board, in a condolence message to the family, described the longest serving Visiting Member of the Board as “a good man to the core”.

He was, until death, a custodian of The Guardian tradition, especially on the board. He was a deep thinker, prolific writer and articulate gentleman, who for years brought his wide experience in and out of government to enrich discussions and the eventual editorials of the newspaper.

Although, his preferred discipline was on development of public infrastructure, particularly roads, he had an uncanny passion for sports, especially Tennis; and he consequently found it easy to contribute for years, essays and reportage of great sporting events in The Guardian newspapers.

Besides those areas, the late Akindele was an astute administrator who often lamented the dissonance in government as a reflection of poor administration and commitment.

“His death at this critical era of Nigeria is a severe blow to many who nurse the hope of the country overcoming its travails and bouncing back on its feet as a force to reckon with in the comity of great nations.

“While we pray that Almighty God strengthens his entire family, friends and associates on this board, we take solace in the fact that Prince Akindele is leaving behind a personal and professional legacy that will provide a lasting guide to the coming generations of Nigerians,” the condolence message read in part.

Akindele was a cabinet member of the Ogun State Government during the tenure of Gbenga Daniel. He was also a faculty member of the African American University.