Hamzat Abdulqudus
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the death of former Managing Director of the Daily Times, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, who died at 86, describing him as a distinguished diplomat, journalist, politician and public servant whose contributions to national development will remain indelible.
In a personal tribute, the President said the late Cole devoted his life to serving Nigeria across different spheres, particularly journalism, diplomacy and politics, leaving behind a legacy of principled engagement, integrity and commitment to the public good.
President Tinubu particularly praised the deceased’s contributions to Nigerian journalism, recalling his leadership of the Daily Times, where he championed the media’s responsibility to hold public officials accountable and strengthen democratic governance.
According to the President, Cole’s professional career demonstrated the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and constructive engagement in promoting national development and international cooperation.
‘I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, a distinguished diplomat, journalist, politician, and public servant, who died at 86
‘Ambassador Cole devoted his life to national service, bringing distinction to his work in diplomacy, journalism and politics.
‘His career reflected the enduring value of dialogue, tact, mutual respect and the pursuit of shared interests in advancing national development and international cooperation’, Tinubu stated.
Reflecting on Cole’s contributions to the Nigerian media industry, the President acknowledged his commitment to press freedom, accountability, and strengthening democratic institutions.
‘His contributions to Nigeria’s media landscape were particularly notable. As Managing Director of the Daily Times, he upheld the press’s vital role in holding public officials accountable, speaking truth to power, and strengthening democratic governance. His legacy in journalism and public life remains an enduring part of our national story’, he said.
President Tinubu said the late diplomat lived through significant periods in Nigeria’s political and democratic evolution, contributing his experience and expertise to the country’s development through journalism, diplomacy, and public administration. BuyMaps
The President said Cole’s life offered enduring lessons in patriotism, principled leadership and dedication to the collective interest.
‘At 86, Ambassador Dele Cole witnessed defining moments in Nigeria’s history and contributed to the nation’s development through his work in the media, diplomacy and public service. His life stands as a testament to the value of experience, principled engagement and commitment to the public good’, he added.
The President extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, professional colleagues, associates, and others whose lives he impacted through decades of service.
‘As we mourn his passing, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, professional associates and all whose lives he touched. I pray that memories of his remarkable life will bring them comfort and strength at this difficult time.
‘May Almighty God grant Ambassador Cole eternal rest and give his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear this profound loss’, Tinubu prayed.
