Tinubu, in a birthday tribute issued on Monday, said Alake’s work in the solid minerals sector had continued to attract local and global admiration, while earning him the trust of his colleagues across Africa.
The President also commended Alake’s role as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), describing him as a person with an “inexhaustible capacity” to function and deliver results even in unfamiliar territories.
“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 said Alake’s career in journalism and public service had been defined by hard work, excellence and a commitment to equity and social justice.
According to him, Alake distinguished himself as a frontline journalist and editor, using his pen to confront what he described as the ills and malaise confronting Nigeria.
The President recalled that during the military era, Alake was among journalists who campaigned against dictatorship and human rights abuses and advocated the restoration of democratic governance.
Tinubu also recalled Alake’s eight-year tenure as Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, saying he used his “creative and enterprising spirit” to redefine government information management and establish himself as an example in political strategy and public communication.
“In public service, his creative and enterprising spirit served him well as my Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State for 8 years,” the President said.
“He redefined government information management and became a clear example of political strategy and public communication.”
Tinubu said Alake’s ability to operate effectively in unfamiliar and uncharted territories had also been evident in his current assignment as Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
The President congratulated Alake on attaining 70, saying he was joining the “Club of Septuagenarians.”
“On the occasion of his 70th birthday on October 6, I rejoice with him, his immediate family, friends, and associates,” Tinubu said.
He prayed that God would grant the minister 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,” Tinubu added.
