Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu final evening expressed profound unhappiness at the information of the passing of a distinguished diplomat, journalist, politician, historian and elder statesman, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, who died in London at 86.
Cole’s demise was confirmed yesterday by a household supply, who disclosed that the previous Nigerian ambassador died earlier in the morning following weeks of deteriorating well being.
The supply revealed that Cole had lately been discharged from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), however his well being had continued to say no.
“He left ICU a few days ago. He had been doing poorly in recent weeks leading to this end,” the household supply stated.
Born on August 4, 1940, Cole turned 86 in August, barely two months earlier than his demise.
He was broadly recognized for his contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic service, journalism, and historic scholarship, having held a number of distinguished positions all through his profession.
Before coming into diplomatic service, Cole established himself in Nigeria’s media trade, serving on the editorial board of The Guardian newspaper and subsequently as Managing Director of Daily Times, one of many nation’s most influential newspapers.
He later represented Nigeria as Ambassador to Argentina and Brazil, extending his public service profession into worldwide diplomacy.
He served as Special Adviser on International Relations beneath President Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007. He was additionally appointed Nigeria’s ambassador to Brazil and Argentina.
He additionally ventured into politics and was related to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the Nineteen Nineties.
Beyond his diplomatic assignments, Cole was recognised for his involvement in nationwide discourse, notably on governance, politics, and Nigeria’s historic improvement.
His profession spanned journalism, public administration, and diplomacy, putting him amongst a era of Nigerian public figures who contributed to the nation’s political and institutional improvement.
In an announcement he personally signed, President Tinubu stated Ambassador Cole devoted his life to nationwide service, bringing distinction to his work in diplomacy, journalism and politics.
Tinubu famous that Cole’s profession mirrored the enduring worth of dialogue, tact, mutual respect and the pursuit of shared pursuits in advancing nationwide improvement and worldwide cooperation.
“His contributions to Nigeria’s media landscape were particularly notable. As Managing Director of the Daily Times, he upheld the vital role of the press 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,” Tinubu defined.
The president added that at 86, the deceased witnessed defining moments in Nigeria’s historical past and contributed to the nation’s improvement via his work in the media, diplomacy and public service.
According to Tinubu, his life stood as a testomony to the worth of expertise, principled engagement and dedication to the general public good.
“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,” the assertion added.
