President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences over the passing of Nigeria’s inaugural Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Chief Mobolaji Ajose-Adeogun, who died in Lagos last Saturday.
Chief Ajose-Adeogun, who passed away at 96 years old, was appointed as the Minister of Federal Capital in 1976 by the military administration of Murtala Mohammed and served in that capacity until 1979.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesperson, Dele Alake, President Tinubu described the former Minister and prominent entrepreneur as a distinguished statesman who made significant contributions to national progress. He further expressed gratitude on behalf of the country and the people of Lagos State, where Ajose-Adeogun held an important traditional title, for his exceptional service over the years.
“I join the family, children, associates, and Lagos State Government in grieving the loss of Chief Mobolaji Ajose-Adeogun, a remarkable son of Lagos who served our country admirably as the first Minister of Federal Capital Territory.
“Even more than 40 years after his tenure as a member of the Federal Executive Council, his legacy of impeccable and groundbreaking leadership in the FCT remains unerasable.
“Chief Ajose-Adeogun will be remembered for his contributions to the economic advancement of our country as a notable industrialist and businessman. He served his country honorably, and even more so the people of Lagos State, where he held a traditional chief title. I pray that his soul finds eternal rest.”
The late Chief Ajose-Adeogun had previously served as a two-time Federal Commissioner for Cooperatives and Supply before assuming the role of the Federal Commissioner for Special Duties overseeing the Federal Capital Development Authority.
During his tenure as the FCT Minister, he oversaw the planning and design of the Master Plan of Abuja.