Rivers State has lost one of its distinguished sons, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, a veteran journalist, diplomat, politician and public servant, who died at the age of 86.
Cole’s death was announced in a condolence message in which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid tribute to the late statesman, describing his contributions to Nigeria’s development as significant.
The President particularly commended Cole’s contributions to the Nigerian media industry, especially during his tenure as Managing Director of the Daily Times, one of the country’s foremost newspaper organisations.
Tinubu said the late diplomat upheld the responsibility of the press to hold public officials accountable, speak truth to power and strengthen democratic governance.
“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,” the President said.
Cole, who lived from 1939 to 2026, was widely regarded as a distinguished figure whose career spanned journalism, diplomacy, politics and public service.
He was also the father of Pastor Tonye Cole, a former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.
His death is a loss to Rivers State and the country, particularly the media community, where his contributions to journalism and public discourse remain part of Nigeria’s institutional history.
President Tinubu’s tribute underscored the enduring importance of Cole’s role in promoting accountability and responsible journalism in Nigeria.
The late ambassador is survived by his children, family members and other relations.
