President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, as a “forthright, upright, loyal and committed ally” as the minister marks his 70th birthday.
In a birthday tribute he personally signed on Monday, President Tinubu said his several decades of close relationship with Alake had given him the opportunity to know the minister as “a steady hand” who was straightforward and unequivocal in his positions on issues.
Tinubu said he rejoiced with Alake, his family, friends and associates as he joined the club of septuagenarians.
The president also commended Alake’s professional and public service career, saying he had built a reputation for hard work, excellence and a strong commitment to delivering results.
According to Tinubu, the pursuit of equity and social justice has remained central to Alake’s endeavours.
He particularly recalled Alake’s career in journalism, where he spent most of his professional working life, describing him as a frontline journalist and editor who used his pen to confront what he described as the ills and malaise affecting the country.
Tinubu said Alake distinguished himself during the years of military rule by standing against dictatorship and human rights abuses and advocating the restoration of democratic governance.
The president also recalled Alake’s eight-year tenure as his Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, saying his “creative and enterprising spirit” enabled him to make significant contributions to government information management, political strategy and public communication.
Tinubu said Alake had demonstrated the capacity to function effectively and deliver results even in unfamiliar areas.
He attributed Alake’s current role as Minister of Solid Minerals Development to this capacity, saying his work in the ministry had continued to attract local and international attention.
The president also noted Alake’s role as chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), saying he had earned the trust of his colleagues across the continent.
Tinubu prayed that God would grant Alake more years in good health as he continued his service to God, Nigeria and humanity.
“Happy birthday and many happy returns to my confidante, brother, and buddy,” the president said.
