The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) West Africa has immortalised Dr. Kayode Fayemi, naming its first building in honour of his dedication to democracy and governance. The event, hosted at the CDD headquarters in Abuja on Friday, February 7, 2025, brought together colleagues, friends, and key stakeholders for an intimate gathering to reflect on Mr. Fayemi’s lasting contributions and impact.
Dr. Fayemi took to the podium and addressed the audience with a nostalgic smile. He spoke passionately about CDD’s early days in London and its growth into a policy-shaping institution in West Africa. A banner behind him displayed the CDD logo with the words “Democracy. Governance. Development.”
A prominent Nigerian politician and scholar, Dr. Fayemi has been instrumental in promoting democratic values and good governance across West Africa. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the region’s political landscape.
Dauda Garuba, now leading the organisation where he once started as a young programme officer, shared his heartfelt experience working under Fayemi. His expression was one of gratitude and admiration as he recounted the mentorship and vision that shaped his journey.
The intimate gathering included key figures in Nigeria’s civil society, governance, and democracy sectors, like his wife, Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Dr. Kole Shettima, and Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim, amongst others. Friends, colleagues, and policymakers sat attentively, some nodding in agreement as speeches highlighted CDD’s contributions to democracy.
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