Activities have commenced as tributes and reflections pour in to honour the life and enduring legacy of the Late Prince Ebenezer Oluseyi Lufadeju, a leading promoter of affordable housing, an inductee of the Affordable Housing Hall of Fame, and a revered urban planner and public servant.
Prince Lufadeju passed away on January 22, 2025, leaving behind a remarkable footprint in Nigeria’s urban development and housing advocacy landscape.
The series of memorial events began on Thursday, April 25, when the Rotary Club of Abuja Metro hosted a heartfelt Night of Tribute to celebrate his contributions to the club and the broader society. Known for his deep commitment to service, Prince Lufadeju was fondly remembered by fellow Rotarians for his kindness, leadership, and unwavering support.
Leading the tributes, Rotarian Elvis Obaseki described the late Prince as a “builder of people” who constantly reached out to ensure members felt valued and supported. Other tributes from Rotarians Joseph Okhakia and Mike Nwanoshiri highlighted his role as a humble mentor and compassionate leader who often sacrificed his own comfort for the benefit of others. Many members took turns to share personal stories that captured his positive and lasting impact on their lives.
The commemorations continued on Friday, April 25, with a solemn Service of Songs held at All Saints Church, Wuse, Abuja. A large congregation of friends, family, and professional colleagues gathered to pay their respects, including representatives from the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), the Rotary Club, and his Old Boys Association.
In an emotional tribute, his daughter described Prince Lufadeju as not just a loving father, but an exceptional mentor whose guidance shaped countless lives. Tpl. Queen Philips, Chairman of the NITP, FCT Chapter, mourned his passing as a “monumental loss” to both the institute and the broader field of urban planning in Nigeria.
During the homily, the officiating minister reminded attendees of the inevitability of death and called on everyone to lead lives filled with godliness and purpose, echoing the very principles by which Prince Lufadeju lived.
Friends and professional associates, including Engr. Johnny Chuku, former Permanent Secretary of the FCT, and Ambassador Iyama, also shared poignant recollections with Housing TV Africa, narrating how Prince Lufadeju had profoundly influenced their personal and professional journeys.
Dr. Adedamola Lufadeju, his son, offered a moving tribute to his father’s commitment to family, recounting the invaluable life lessons and love that shaped his own upbringing.
Upcoming Memorial Events Announced by the Family include:
Saturday, April 26, 2025 | 4:00 PM
Service of Songs / Night of Tributes
Venue: RCCG, City of David, Abuja — 414 Augustus Aikhomu Way, Utako, Abuja
Dress Code: Touch of White
Monday, April 28, 2025 | 4:00 PM
Service of Songs / Night of Tributes
Venue: Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, Lagos
Dress Code: Shades of Purple & White
Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 4:00 PM
Wake Keep
Venue: No. 1, Obembe Avenue, Off Ibala Road, Ilesa, Osun State
Dress Code: Touch of White
Friday, May 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM
Funeral Service
Venue: Cathedral Church of Holy Trinity, Omofe, Ilesa, Osun State
Dress Code: Shades of Blue & White
Reception follows immediately at The Kings Event Centre, Ilesa, Osun State
Prince Ebenezer Oluseyi Lufadeju’s passing has left a void in the housing and urban planning community, but the outpouring of tributes, heartfelt memories, and his indelible impact stand as a lasting testament to a life dedicated to service, community building, and the promotion of affordable housing for all.
Ubong Usoro, Prince Folorunsho Adegoke
