*R-L: President Bola Tinubu and Dr Dele Alake.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a “steady hand,” forthright, upright and loyal ally whose career has been defined by hard work, excellence and commitment to results.
In a tribute issued on Monday, October 5, ahead of Alake’s birthday on October 6, Tinubu said his several decades of close relationship with the minister had given him a deep appreciation of his character and dedication to public service.
The President said Alake was “straight and unequivocal,” noting that his position on issues was never in doubt.
“On the occasion of his 70th birthday on October 6, I rejoice with him, his immediate family, friends, and associates. I celebrate with him for the grace of joining the Club of Septuagenarians,” Tinubu said.
The President praised Alake’s professional and public service record, saying his activities had consistently reflected a strong commitment to equity and social justice.
Tinubu particularly recalled Alake’s contribution to journalism, where he spent most of his professional career, describing him as a frontline journalist and editor who courageously used his pen to challenge the social and political ills confronting Nigeria.
According to the President, Alake distinguished himself as a journalist of conscience during the years of military rule, when he stood against dictatorship and human rights abuses and advocated the restoration of democratic governance.
He also highlighted Alake’s eight-year tenure as Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, during which he said the minister brought creativity and enterprise to government communication and strategic information management.
“In public service, his creative and enterprising spirit served him well as my Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State for 8 years,” Tinubu said, adding that Alake “redefined government information management and became a clear example of political strategy and public communication.”
The President further commended Alake’s ability to operate effectively in unfamiliar and challenging environments, citing his current role as Minister of Solid Minerals Development as evidence of his capacity to deliver results.
Tinubu said Alake’s work in repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector had attracted both local and international recognition, while his leadership as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) had earned him the confidence of colleagues across the continent.
The President prayed for Alake to be blessed with many more years in good health and to continue his service to God, Nigeria and humanity.
“Happy birthday and many happy returns to my confidante, brother, and buddy,” Tinubu said.
