President Bola Tinubu has said his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Akin Dare, played a crucial role in the emergence of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tinubu stated this on Thursday in a tribute to Dare as the presidential aide marked his 60th birthday on May 29.
The President described Dare as a renowned journalist, communications expert, and long-time ally who contributed significantly to the struggle for the establishment of a progressive democratic order in Nigeria.
Tinubu recalled that Dare worked closely with him during political consultations and strategic engagements that culminated in the formation of the APC.
“Together, day and night, from 2013 to 2014, we were in the crucible, planning, strategising, consulting, and engaging with like-minded people in our bid to forge an alliance between progressives in the North and South of Nigeria, until the birth of our governing All Progressives Congress,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that throughout the process, Dare demonstrated dexterity, resilience, professionalism, industry, and multitasking abilities.
He said Dare also showed leadership, courage, and innovative thinking while serving as his Chief of Staff and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity at the time.
Tinubu added that it was in recognition of those qualities that former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Dare first as Executive Commissioner for Stakeholders Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission and later as Minister of Youth and Sports Development.
The President further commended Dare’s contributions to the current administration, particularly in digital and new media communications.
“As Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications in our administration, Sunday has brought his deep understanding of digital and new media to bear in the work of our media and communications team,” he stated.
Tinubu also praised Dare’s commitment to family values, community development, and national service, noting that he was honoured with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and installed as the Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State.
The President thanked Dare for his loyalty, partnership, and service to the progressive movement and the Renewed Hope administration.
He wished the presidential aide good health, wisdom, and many more years of service to the country.
