President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has marked Chief Sunday Akin Dare’s 60th birthday with praise for his contribution to Nigeria’s political evolution, calling him a key figure in the creation of the ruling All Progressives Congress. In a message issued through the Presidency, Tinubu described Dare as an essential ally in the country’s democratic journey and development.
Quick facts
- Tinubu celebrated Chief Sunday Akin Dare on his 60th birthday
- Dare is credited with playing a pivotal role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress
- Tinubu cited Dare’s work between 2013 and 2014 to build an alliance of progressives across regions
- During the party’s early phase, Dare served as Chief of Staff and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity
- He was later appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari to senior roles in the Nigerian Communications Commission and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development
- In the current administration, Tinubu praised Dare’s expertise in digital and new media
- He received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and was installed as Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State
Tinubu said Dare had been “a partner in a long and arduous struggle to establish a progressive democratic order,” highlighting their shared effort during the period from 2013 to 2014. He recalled how that collaboration helped forge an alliance linking northern and southern progressives, an arrangement that eventually led to the establishment of the APC.
Describing Dare as a seasoned journalist and communications specialist, Tinubu said he returned from the United States to throw his weight behind the movement. The President added that Dare “has neither relented nor looked back” in his pursuit of democratic governance and good administration in Nigeria.
From party building to government appointments
In the APC’s early stages, Tinubu noted, Dare worked as Chief of Staff and as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. The President said those roles brought out what he called strong leadership, fresh thinking and determination, stressing that Dare’s “dexterity, tenacity, industry, resilience, professionalism, and multitasking” stood out during those formative years.
Tinubu further credited those attributes with drawing the attention of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He said Buhari first appointed Dare as Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission, before later naming him Minister of Youth and Sports Development.
Turning to the present administration, Tinubu said Dare has contributed “a deep understanding of digital and new media” to the Presidency’s communications team. He also highlighted what he called an impressive dedication to family principles, support for community advancement, and commitment to Nigeria’s wider development.
Honours and community recognition
Tinubu said the impact of Dare’s work has extended beyond politics and professional life, noting that he has been recognised nationally and within his community. The federal government awarded him the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), one of Nigeria’s notable national honours.
On top of the national honour, Tinubu said Dare was also installed as the Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State. The President’s recognition of Dare’s community standing was included alongside his praise for his political and communications achievements.
As Dare marked his birthday on May 29, Tinubu wished him “many more years, good health and increased wisdom.”
