Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to the late Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic relations, international image and historic Paris Club debt relief.
Cole, who died at the age of 86, served as Obasanjo’s Special Adviser on International Relations during his civilian administration from 1999 to 2007.
In a statement made available by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, on Saturday, Obasanjo described Cole’s death as a personal loss and a setback for the country, recalling their working relationship over several decades.
Their relationship began when Obasanjo was military Head of State and Cole served in the Cabinet Office. They worked together again after Obasanjo returned to power in 1999, when Nigeria was seeking to rebuild its international standing after years of diplomatic isolation.
Obasanjo said Cole’s diplomatic experience and knowledge of international relations made him a key member of his foreign policy team. He accompanied the former president on several official trips and helped strengthen Nigeria’s ties with other countries.
The former president also credited Cole with contributing to the diplomatic and economic efforts that culminated in Nigeria’s Paris Club debt relief.
“Dele brought exceptional tact, outstanding economic knowledge and unwavering patriotism to the table,” Obasanjo said.
Beyond diplomacy, Obasanjo praised Cole’s contribution to journalism, particularly during his tenure as managing director of the Daily Times. He said Cole introduced an independent editorial board system to protect the newspaper’s editorial policies from political interference.
Cole also served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Brazil and Argentina, roles Obasanjo said reflected his commitment to national development and public service.
Describing the late diplomat as a trusted ally, the former president said Nigeria had lost one of its finest intellectuals.
Obasanjo expressed sympathy with Cole’s children, including Tonye and his siblings, following the deaths of both parents. He urged them to remain united and uphold their father’s values.
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