President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran journalist, diplomat and public servant, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, who died at the age of 86.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the President described the late ambassador as a distinguished Nigerian whose contributions to journalism, diplomacy and politics left an enduring mark on the country.
President Tinubu particularly commended Cole’s contributions to the media industry, recalling his tenure as Managing Director of the Daily Times, where he upheld the role of the press in holding public officials accountable and strengthening democratic governance.
He said Cole’s career reflected the importance of dialogue, tact, mutual respect and the pursuit of shared interests in advancing national development and international cooperation.
The President noted that the late diplomat witnessed defining moments in Nigeria’s history and contributed to the nation’s development through his work in the media, diplomacy and public service.
Tinubu extended his condolences to Cole’s family, friends, professional associates and others affected by his death, praying that God grants the deceased eternal rest and gives his loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
The late Cole was the Nigerian ambassador to Brazil, serving from 1987 to 1990. He was also a presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the aborted Third Republic.
From 1998 to 1999, he was National Vice Chairman (South-South) of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He later served as special adviser to the President Olusegun Obasanjo on international relations from 1999 to 2001.
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Editor: Terverr Tyav
