By: Festus Adebayo
Today, I find it hard to put into words the depth of the loss we feel as we bid farewell to a rare gem, Prince Oluseyi Lufadeju. He was more than a mentor to me; he was a dependable father, a man of peace, kindness, and compassion whose life was dedicated to serving others and building a better society.
Prince Lufadeju was meticulous, every step he took was thoughtful and purposeful. Yet behind his sharp mind was a soft heart, kind to everyone he encountered. He mentored countless young people, always ready to guide, encourage, and uplift. His love for peace was unmatched; he believed that progress could only be built on the foundation of unity and compassion.
He was a humanitarian in the truest sense, a man who could give you his last money just to solve a problem for you without expecting anything in return. I personally witnessed this when I approved a suspension for a staff member in my office and Baba Lufadeju came, with humility and kindness, to plead on his behalf. That was who he was, a man whose heart knew no bounds when it came to helping others.
Passionate about housing, he did not see homes as bricks and mortar but as vessels of dignity, as temples where hope is sheltered.
His impact on the housing sector was enormous. He was a strong pillar at the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), not just attending, but actively shaping ideas and inspiring collaboration. His voice was respected, his counsel treasured.
He championed the cause not for fame, but for the silent, the unseen, the millions dreaming of a roof to call their own.
Through his hands and his heart, Daddy Lufadeju built more than houses, he built futures, he built dreams.
As a founding figure at Shelter Afrique and a leader in REDAN, his contributions stretched beyond borders. Even today, Kenya honors his legacy in ways Nigeria may never fully comprehend.
It was no surprise that he was inducted into the Affordable Housing Hall of Fame, a recognition of his extraordinary contributions to making housing more accessible to millions.
Through his leadership, compassion, and relentless advocacy, he left behind a legacy that will inspire generations.
As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate a life well-lived, a life of service, integrity, and endless generosity. His friends at the IBB Golf Club, the housing sector family, and indeed all who knew him are united in grief, but also in gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing such a remarkable man.
Rest on, Daddy. Your kindness, your wisdom, your passion for humanity, these will never be forgotten. You will forever remain in our hearts.
Sun re o, Baba mi.
