President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Akin Dare, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, describing him as a loyal ally, seasoned communications expert and committed progressive.
In a personally signed statement issued on Thursday, President Tinubu recounted Dare’s role in the struggle to establish a progressive democratic order in Nigeria and his contributions to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The President said Dare worked closely with him between 2013 and 2014 in consultations, planning and strategic engagements that led to the alliance between northern and southern progressives and eventually the birth of the APC.
According to Tinubu, Dare demonstrated “dexterity, tenacity, industry, resilience, professionalism and multitasking” throughout the process, while also showing leadership and courage in his role as Chief of Staff/Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.
Tinubu recalled that Dare returned from the United States to join the progressive movement and remained steadfast in his resolve to contribute to democratic governance in Nigeria.
The President noted that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari later recognised Dare’s abilities by appointing him Executive Commissioner for Stakeholders Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) before subsequently naming him Minister of Youth and Sports Development.
Tinubu also commended Dare’s performance in the current administration, stating that he has brought his extensive knowledge of digital and new media into the work of the government’s communications team.
He further praised the presidential aide’s commitment to family values, community development and national progress, noting that Dare was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and was installed as the Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State.
Congratulating Dare on attaining the milestone age of 60, the President applauded his contributions to journalism, his community, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
Tinubu thanked the media aide for his partnership and continued service to the administration, while praying for more years, good health and wisdom for him to continue serving the country.
“Sunday has come a long way with me as an ally and partner in our long and arduous struggle to establish a progressive democratic order in the country,” the President stated.
He added that Dare’s dedication, resilience and professionalism have continued to distinguish him in public service and political communication.
