Joel Ajayi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated renowned journalist, communications strategist, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Akin Dare, on the occasion of his 60th birthday on May 29, 2026.
In a heartfelt tribute, President Tinubu described Akin Dare as a loyal ally, dependable partner, and committed progressive who has played significant roles in Nigeria’s democratic journey and governance reforms.
The President recalled their years of collaboration, particularly during the intense political engagements between 2013 and 2014 that culminated in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Sunday has come a long way with me as an ally and partner in our long and arduous struggle to establish a progressive democratic order in the country,” Tinubu stated.
He noted that since returning from the United States to join the progressive movement in Nigeria, Akin Dare has remained steadfast in his commitment to democratic good governance and national development.
President Tinubu praised his exceptional professionalism, resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication, qualities he said became evident during the critical period of coalition-building that birthed 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,” the President said.
He added that as Chief of Staff/Special Adviser on Media and Publicity at the time, Akin Dare demonstrated remarkable leadership, courage, innovation, and multitasking ability.
President Tinubu further noted that it was in recognition of these sterling attributes that former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him first as Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and later as Minister of Youth and Sports Development.
According to the President, Akin Dare has continued to deploy his vast experience and deep understanding of digital and new media in strengthening the communications architecture of the Renewed Hope Administration.
He also commended the celebrant’s commitment to family values, community development, and national service, noting that his contributions have earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the traditional title of Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State.
“I congratulate Sunday on reaching this milestone age of 60, and particularly on his immense accomplishments at this age. I also commend his important contributions to his community, state, the journalism profession and Nigeria at large,” Tinubu said.
The President thanked Akin Dare for his enduring partnership, dedicated service to the progressive movement, and invaluable contributions to the administration, while wishing him many more years of good health, wisdom, and impactful service to the nation.
