Tinubu celebrates Dele Alake at 70, hails his courage, loyalty, excellence

Michael Olumide Alabi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a “steady hand,” forthright, upright, loyal and committed ally.

President Tinubu, in a birthday tribute issued by the State House on Monday, said his several decades of close relationship with Alake had enabled him to witness his courage, integrity and commitment to excellence.

Alake clocks 70 on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

The President said the minister had always been straightforward and unequivocal in his dealings, noting that “you always know where he stands on issues.”

Tinubu congratulated Alake, his immediate family, friends and associates on his attainment of 70 years, celebrating what he described as the grace of joining the “Club of Septuagenarians.”

According to the President, Alake has built a strong reputation for hard work, excellence and an “unquenchable thirst for delivering results” throughout his professional and public service career.

He noted that at the centre of Alake’s endeavours was a commitment to equity and social justice.

The President particularly praised Alake’s contributions to journalism, where he spent most of his professional career, describing him as a frontline journalist and editor who excelled in the profession.

Tinubu recalled that during Nigeria’s years of military dictatorship, Alake used his journalism to confront the social and political ills affecting the country.

He said the minister was a “journalist of conscience” who stood on the front lines against dictatorship and human rights abuses while advocating the restoration of democratic governance.

The President also recalled Alake’s service as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, where he served for eight years.
Tinubu said Alake’s creativity and enterprising spirit helped him redefine government information management and establish himself as an outstanding practitioner of political strategy and public communication.

He further commended the minister’s ability to function effectively and deliver results even in unfamiliar and uncharted territories.

According to him, Alake’s current role as Minister of Solid Minerals Development has continued to attract local and international admiration.

Tinubu also noted that Alake had earned the confidence of his colleagues across Africa through his leadership of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), where he serves as chairman.

The President prayed for Alake to be blessed with many more years in good health as he continues his service to God, Nigeria and humanity.

“Happy birthday and many happy returns to my confidante, brother, and buddy,” Tinubu said.