President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a “forthright, upright, loyal and committed ally”.
In a tribute issued on Monday ahead of Alake’s birthday on Tuesday, 6 October, Mr Tinubu said their relationship spanning several decades had shown the minister to be a dependable and principled associate.
“In my several decades of very close relationship with Dele Alake, I have known him as a steady hand, a forthright, upright, loyal, and committed ally,” the president said.
“He is straight and unequivocal. You always know where he stands on issues.”
Mr Tinubu praised Alake’s long career in journalism and public service, saying he had built a reputation for hard work, excellence and a strong commitment to delivering results.
The president particularly highlighted Alake’s years as a journalist and editor, recalling his role in challenging social and political ills and defending democratic values during Nigeria’s years of military rule.
According to Mr Tinubu, Alake was a “journalist of conscience” who stood against dictatorship and human rights abuses while advocating the restoration of democratic governance.
The president also recalled Alake’s eight-year tenure as Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, saying he helped redefine government information management and demonstrated the importance of effective political communication.
Mr Tinubu said Alake had also shown an ability to deliver results in unfamiliar areas, citing his current role as Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
He noted that Alake’s work in the sector had attracted local and international attention, while his position as chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group had earned him the confidence of colleagues across the continent.
The president joined Alake’s family, friends and associates in celebrating his entry into the ranks of septuagenarians and prayed for many more years of good health and service to Nigeria.
He ended the tribute by describing Alake as his “confidante, brother, and buddy”.
“Happy birthday and many happy returns to my confidante, brother, and buddy,” Mr Tinubu said.
The tribute was personally signed by President Tinubu on 5 October 2026.
