Former president recalls the late adviser’s role in restoring international ties and supporting foreign-policy initiatives.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to the late diplomat and public servant Dele Cole, describing him as an exceptional intellectual and trusted adviser whose work helped shape Nigeria’s international relations.
Cole died at the age of 86. In a condolence message, Obasanjo said their association dated back to his years as military head of state and grew stronger during the civilian administration between 1999 and 2007, when Cole served as Special Adviser on International Relations.
Obasanjo recalled that Nigeria faced the task of rebuilding international relationships after a period of diplomatic isolation. He credited Cole’s knowledge, judgment and negotiating ability with helping the administration reconnect with foreign partners.
The former president also linked Cole’s contribution to wider diplomatic and economic initiatives, including efforts surrounding Nigeria’s Paris Club debt relief. He said the diplomat travelled on official missions and offered counsel on sensitive international matters.
Beyond government service, Cole had worked in journalism, including as managing director of the Daily Times. Obasanjo praised his efforts to protect editorial independence through an editorial board structure and recalled his diplomatic service in Brazil and Argentina.
He expressed sympathy to Cole’s children and family, noting the earlier death of Cole’s wife, Mina. Obasanjo encouraged the family to preserve the values of integrity and public service that he associated with their father.
The tribute presents Cole’s career as one that connected the media, diplomacy and public administration, with a legacy remembered by a former president who worked closely with him.
