President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have paid tribute to Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday. Tinubu described Alake as a "journalist of conscience" who stood against military dictatorship and human rights abuses during Nigeria's darkest periods. He also praised Alake's commitment to equity and social justice, which has defined his professional and public service career.
Tinubu recalled Alake's years in journalism, saying he distinguished himself as a frontline journalist and editor who used his profession to challenge societal ills and fight for democratic governance. Alake's courageous use of his pen to confront the ills that plagued Nigeria during military rule earned him a reputation as a journalist of conscience. Tinubu also noted that Alake's professional and public service life has been driven by a consistent quest for equity and social justice.
The President praised Alake's service as Commissioner for Information and Strategy during his eight-year tenure as Lagos State governor. Alake transformed government information management and established himself in political strategy and public communication. Tinubu also noted that Alake has demonstrated an unusual ability to operate effectively in unfamiliar fields, including his current role as Minister of Solid Minerals.
Tinubu said Alake's performance as Minister of Solid Minerals has attracted recognition within Nigeria and internationally. He has earned the trust of his continental counterparts, culminating in his emergence as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group. The President prayed for continued good health and longevity for Alake as he continues his service to the country and humanity.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also paid tribute to Alake, describing him as a respected journalist, communication strategist, and administrator. Sanwo-Olu praised Alake's dedication to national development, describing his contributions to public service and governance as laudable. He prayed to God to grant Alake continued good health and urged him to sustain his service to humanity and Nigeria.
Alake has built a reputation for hard work, excellence, and a determination to deliver results. His leadership in the solid minerals sector has earned him recognition and admiration locally and globally. Tinubu congratulated Alake, his immediate family, friends, and associates on attaining the age of 70.
Key points from the tributes include Alake's courageous stance against military dictatorship and human rights abuses, his commitment to equity and social justice, and his effective leadership in unfamiliar fields.
Key points
- President Tinubu hailed Alake as a 'journalist of conscience' who fought against dictatorship and human rights abuses.
- Alake's leadership in the solid minerals sector has earned him recognition locally and globally.
- Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Alake's dedication to national development and lauded his contributions to public service and governance.
