“My Confidante, Brother And Buddy” – Tinubu To Alake At 70

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, as his “confidante, brother, and buddy” as the minister clocks 70 on Tuesday.

Tinubu, in a birthday tribute issued on Monday, said his several decades of close relationship with Alake had enabled him to know the minister as a “steady hand, a forthright, upright, loyal, and committed ally.”

“He is straight and unequivocal. You always know where he stands on issues,” the President said.

Tinubu celebrated Alake’s professional career in journalism and public service, recalling his role as a frontline journalist during Nigeria’s military era and his opposition to dictatorship and human rights abuses.

He also praised Alake’s eight-year tenure as Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, saying he “redefined government information management” and became an example of political strategy and public communication.

On Alake’s current role as Minister of Solid Minerals, Tinubu said his ability to function effectively in “unfamiliar and uncharted territories” had continued to produce results.

He also noted Alake’s role as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, saying his work in the solid minerals sector had earned him the trust of colleagues across the continent.

Tinubu said Alake’s professional and public service life had been marked by hard work, excellence and a strong commitment to equity and social justice.

The President prayed that God would grant the minister more years in good health as he continues his service to God, country and humanity.

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