President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a “forthright, upright, loyal, and committed ally”.
Alake clocks 70 on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, marking his entry into what Tinubu described as the “Club of Septuagenarians”.
The President, in a birthday message, reflected on his decades-long relationship with Alake, describing him as a dependable associate whose position on issues was always clear.
“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,” Tinubu said.
“He is straight and unequivocal. You always know where he stands on issues.”
Tinubu congratulated Alake and his family, friends and associates on the milestone, while commending his contributions to journalism and public service.
The President recalled that Alake served as Commissioner for Information and Strategy during his tenure as Lagos State Governor between 1999 and 2007, where he said the minister transformed government information management and became an example of strategic communication.
Tinubu also praised Alake’s decades-long career in journalism, describing him as a frontline journalist and editor who used his platform to challenge social and political problems confronting Nigeria.
He recalled Alake’s role during the years of military rule, saying he stood against dictatorship and human rights abuses and advocated the restoration of democratic governance.
“In journalism, where he devoted most of his professional working life, he excelled beyond measure as a frontline journalist and editor. He courageously used his pen to confront the ills and malaise that plagued our country,” Tinubu said.
The President further highlighted Alake’s ability to adapt and deliver results in unfamiliar environments, pointing to his performance as Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
He said Alake’s work in the sector had earned local and international recognition, including the trust of colleagues across Africa through his role as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group.
“At the heart of all his human endeavours is the quest for equity and social justice,” Tinubu said.
He described Alake as a man known for hard work, excellence and a strong commitment to delivering results.
As he marked his 70th birthday, Tinubu prayed for the minister to be blessed with 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.
