Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a distinguished son of the state who has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s development.
In a birthday message issued in Ado-Ekiti through his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Oyebanji praised Alake’s career and described his achievements as a source of pride for Ekiti.
The governor said Alake had contributed to the delivery of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly through his work to strengthen Nigeria’s non-oil revenue base.
He also highlighted Alake’s long career in journalism and communications, describing him as an exceptional professional whose intellectual ability and public advocacy have earned him national recognition.
According to Oyebanji, Alake used his professional platform to promote human rights and advance democratic values during a difficult period in Nigeria’s political history.
The governor particularly recalled Alake’s role during the years of military rule, when journalists and media professionals faced significant pressure for challenging authoritarian rule.
Oyebanji described the minister as one of the figures who contributed to the restoration of democracy through strong advocacy in the media, despite the personal risks associated with such work.
Alake’s professional journey has included several stages in journalism and public administration, with the governor highlighting his experience as a reporter, editor, media manager and administrator.
Before joining the Federal Executive Council, Alake served as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State and later as Special Adviser on Communication to the President.
He was subsequently appointed Minister of Solid Minerals Development, taking responsibility for a sector the Federal Government has identified as important to diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil.
Oyebanji said Alake had continued to demonstrate commitment to national development in his current role, particularly through efforts to strengthen the solid minerals sector and increase its contribution to government revenue.
The governor also praised the minister for positively projecting Ekiti State through his career and public service.
He said Ekiti would continue to be proud of Alake because of his contributions to the state’s image, growth and development at both national and international levels.
The birthday celebration therefore represents not only a personal milestone for the minister but also an occasion for recognition of a lengthy career spanning journalism, political communication and public administration.
Alake’s journalism career is particularly significant because of the role the Nigerian media played in challenging military rule and demanding a return to democratic government.
Oyebanji’s comments place that history alongside Alake’s current responsibilities as a member of the Federal Executive Council, reflecting the different phases of his public career.
At the Federal level, the solid minerals sector has become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to expand its sources of revenue and attract investment into mineral exploration and processing.
The Federal Government has repeatedly identified the sector as an area with potential to reduce dependence on crude oil and create additional economic opportunities.
Alake has therefore been involved in efforts aimed at repositioning the ministry and strengthening Nigeria’s participation in the global minerals market.
For Ekiti, the governor’s tribute also underscores the importance of celebrating citizens who have achieved national prominence while maintaining connections to their home state.
Oyebanji described Alake as his “dear brother” and wished him continued health, wisdom and strength to serve the country and humanity.
He also prayed that the minister would enjoy a long life and continue making an impact through his public service.
The governor’s message comes as Alake joins Nigerians celebrating his 70th birthday, marking seven decades of personal, professional and public contributions.
For a career that has moved from journalism to political communication and eventually federal ministerial responsibilities, the milestone represents a significant chapter in Alake’s public life.
Oyebanji’s tribute ultimately presents Alake’s journey as one that has brought recognition to Ekiti while contributing to wider national conversations on democracy, communication and economic development.