President Tinubu Celebrates BUA Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu and Diplomat Dele Cole on Their Birthdays
On Monday, August 4, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's office issued two separate statements to honor prominent Nigerian figures, Abdul Samad Rabiu and Ambassador Dele Cole, on their birthdays.
Salute to Abdul Samad Rabiu at 65
President Tinubu extended his "heartfelt congratulations" to Abdul Samad Rabiu, the Chairman of BUA Group, on the occasion of his 65th birthday. The President lauded Rabiu as one of Africa's most accomplished industrialists and philanthropists, whose investments have been instrumental in transforming key sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Praise for Business and Philanthropy: Tinubu highlighted that Rabiu’s businesses have not only created thousands of jobs and deepened Nigeria's industrial capacity but have also restored confidence in indigenous enterprise. The President also commended the "Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa)" for its consistent and impactful work in education, health, and social development across the continent.
A "Partner in Nationhood": The President’s message described Rabiu as "a builder in every sense" and a "trusted partner in our nation's progress," acknowledging his commitment to Nigeria's future, driven by a sense of duty and conviction.
Honoring Ambassador Dele Cole at 85
On the same day, President Tinubu also paid tribute to Ambassador Dele Cole, a veteran journalist, historian, and diplomat, on his 85th birthday.
Doyen of Journalism: The President’s message specifically praised Cole’s "extraordinary contributions" to the Nigerian newspaper industry. He highlighted Cole’s transformative leadership as the Managing Director of the Daily Times in 1976, crediting him with "restoring the glory of the newspaper" and building it into "a bastion of journalistic integrity."
Legacy of Public Service: Tinubu recognized Cole’s distinguished career as an "excellent diplomat," which included serving as a Special Adviser on International Relations and as Nigeria's Ambassador to Argentina and Brazil.
A Patriot and Statesman: The President concluded by saluting Cole as a "patriot, intellectual giant, diplomat, doyen of journalism, and elder statesman who has served Nigeria with diligence and commitment."
