By Adesina Soyooye
Ambassador Dele Cole, a very distinguished Diplomat, Politician, Administrator, Statesman, and Journalist is dead.
He had served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Brazil and Argentina.
Ambassador Cole, who, at some point, was the Managing Director of the Daily Times, was, also, one of those who made The Guardian, Nigeria, thick in the beginning. He died at the age of 86. And, President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria are mourning.
He died in London, the United Kingdom, on October 17, 2026.
It is yet to be revealed what the cause of death is, but family sources attribute it to old-age related.
The Ambassador was a proud son of Abonnema, Kalabari, Rivers State. His son, Tonye Cole, an entrepreneur and politician, had tried, a couple of times, unsuccessfully, to be the Governor of Rivers State.
In a tribute he personally signed, a mourning President Tinubu said he received the news of Dr Cole’s passing with profound sadness.
The President recalled that Ambassador Cole devoted his life to national service, and brought distinction to his work in diplomacy, journalism and politics.
The President’s tribute reads:
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, a distinguished diplomat, journalist, politician, and public servant, who died at 86.
“Ambassador Cole devoted his life to national service, bringing distinction to his work in diplomacy, journalism and politics.
“His career reflected the enduring value of dialogue, tact, mutual respect and the pursuit of shared interests in advancing national development and international cooperation.
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.
“At 86, Ambassador Dele Cole witnessed defining moments in Nigeria’s history and contributed to the nation’s development through his work in the media, diplomacy and public service. His life stands as a testament to the value of experience, principled engagement and commitment to the public good.
“As we mourn his passing, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, professional associates and all whose lives he touched. I pray that memories of his remarkable life will bring them comfort and strength at this difficult time.
“May Almighty God grant Ambassador Cole eternal rest and give his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear this profound loss.
“Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria”
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