Obasanjo Remembers Dele Cole as a Key Nigerian Intellectual

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, who died at the age of 86. In a tribute issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo described Cole as one of Nigeria's finest intellectuals and a dear friend whose advice was pivotal in Nigeria's history.

He noted Cole's monumental contributions to Nigerian politics and his revolutionary impact on African journalism as the Managing Director of Daily Times, where he established an independent editorial board system. Obasanjo reminisced about their intertwined paths, particularly during his presidency from 1999 to 2007, when he appointed Cole as his Special Adviser on International Relations.

Cole's legacy was further solidified through his roles as Nigeria's Ambassador to Brazil and Argentina. Obasanjo lamented the loss of both Cole and his wife, Pastor Mina Dugoabere Cole, emphasizing the void left in the Cole family and the nation.