By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi
Today, Dr. Alake’s birthday, I celebrate a man whose life and work have left a mark on my career and Nigeria’s development. A leader, mentor, and visionary, Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has dedicated himself to the service of the nation with unwavering loyalty, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose. His influence is felt across various sectors and the media space, but nowhere more than in his current role as the Honourable Minister.
His tenure has been marked by his relentless drive to unlock the potential hidden beneath Nigeria’s soil. Taking charge of the mining sector at a critical time, he immediately launched a war against illegal mining, which had long deprived the country of valuable resources. His uncompromising stance led to the formation of a specialized task force and the establishment of a mining police force, among many other projects. Illegal miners were given a stern ultimatum: become legal or face the full weight of the law.
His efforts have already seen the disruption of illegal networks, and through enhanced security and monitoring, the sector is beginning to thrive under legitimate operations.
In just a year in office, Dr. Alake has laid the groundwork for what could be a transformative era for Nigeria’s mining sector. By focusing on minerals such as gold, coal, and bitumen, he is positioning Nigeria as a global player in the mining industry and ensuring that the benefits are felt by the communities that surround these resources.
Dr. Alake is not just a leader; he is also a mentor who inspires those around him to embrace the challenges of public service. His unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria reflects his loyalty and dedication. Together, they are working to create a self-sufficient nation where the mining sector plays an important role in economic growth and job creation.
As we reflect on Dr. Alake’s contributions on this special day, I celebrate the legacy he is building, the one rooted in integrity, innovation, and a commitment to uplift Nigeria. His tireless efforts to create a sustainable and prosperous mining sector will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on future generations.
Happy birthday, Dr. Oladele Alake! Your vision and dedication continue to inspire us all, and we look forward to witnessing the continued success of your initiatives for our great nation, Nigeria.
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is an award-winning investigative journalist, policy analyst, good governance, peace, and SDGs advocate. She writes from Abuja
