Dele Cole: Obasanjo cries, says ‘an intellectual titan is gone’

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has mourned Ambassador Dele Cole, who died in the early hours of Saturday at the age of 86, describing him as an intellectual titan, adding that he (Obasanjo) has lost a trusted ally.

Obasanjo in a tribute said Cole’s death was a personal loss and profound sadness, stressing that the late journalist’s advice marked crucial moments in the nation’s history.

“It is with a deep sense of personal loss and profound sadness that I write this tribute to honor my dear friend, brother and fellow countryman, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, who returned to his Creator at the age of 86. Nigeria has lost one of its finest intellectual pillars, and I have lost a trusted ally whose counsel shaped pivotal moments in our nation’s history,” Obasanjo wrote.

He said their paths became closely intertwined decades ago during his tenure as military Head of State when Dele served in the Cabinet Office, adding that it was during his democratic administration as President of Nigeria, from 1999 to 2007, that their bond reached its peak.

“When I took office in 1999, Nigeria was emerging from isolation and desperately needed to be reintegrated into the global community. I knew I needed the best diplomatic minds alongside me, which led to his appointment as my Special Adviser on International Relations,” Obasanjo added.

“Advising a president who is himself intensely passionate about foreign policy is no easy feat – a reality Dele has often acknowledged with irony. However, his sophisticated understanding of global dynamics has made him an indispensable centerpiece of our foreign policy apparatus,” he added

“He traveled extensively with me, worked tirelessly behind the scenes to mend Nigeria’s fractured diplomatic ties and helped formulate the sound strategies that ultimately led to the Paris Club’s historic debt relief. Dele brought unparalleled tact, brilliant economic vision and unyielding patriotism to the table.

‘His contributions to the Nigerian political system remain monumental. Beyond his advisory role, he revolutionized African journalism as CEO of the Daily Times, introducing an independent editorial board system that insulated media policy from political interference.

“His masterful tenures as Nigeria’s ambassador to Brazil and Argentina have further cemented his legacy as a titan of public service who demonstrated that integrity and public duty can coexist beautifully,” Obasanjo said.

“This departure leaves a huge and heartbreaking void, especially as it follows the painful loss of his beloved wife and family matriarch, Pastor Mina Dugoabere Cole, just a few years ago. It is difficult to think that both pillars of support for the Cole family are now gone. However, we find comfort in knowing that they are now reunited in eternity, resting peacefully together in the bosom of the Almighty.”

“To his children – Tonye and his brothers – my fatherly advice is to stand firm, united and proud. The greatest monument you can build in honor of your father is to preserve his towering legacy of integrity, patriotism and selfless service. Do not let the torch he so boldly carried go out; instead, let his principles guide your steps as you continue to uplift humanity.”

“May Almighty God grant the entire Cole family and the people of Kalabari Kingdom the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May the noble soul of Ambassador Dele Cole find eternal rest,” Obasanjo wrote.