Obasanjo Mourns Dele Cole, Recalls Role in Paris Debt Relief

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has mourned the death of Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, describing the late diplomat, journalist and public servant as a trusted ally whose counsel helped shape important moments in Nigeria’s history.

Cole died in the early hours of Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the age of 86.

In a tribute released on Sunday, Obasanjo described the death as a personal loss, recalling their longstanding relationship, which began decades ago when he served as Nigeria’s military Head of State and Cole worked in the Cabinet Office.

Their relationship deepened during Obasanjo’s civilian administration from 1999 to 2007, when Cole was appointed Special Adviser on International Relations.

Obasanjo said Nigeria was emerging from a period of diplomatic isolation when he assumed office in 1999 and needed experienced diplomats to rebuild the country’s international relationships.

He said Cole’s understanding of international affairs made him an important member of the administration’s foreign policy team.

The former president recalled that Cole travelled extensively with him and worked behind the scenes to restore diplomatic ties and advance Nigeria’s interests abroad.

He particularly credited the late diplomat with contributing to the strategies that led to Nigeria’s historic Paris Club debt relief agreement.

“Dele brought unmatched tact, brilliant economic insight, and unyielding patriotism to the table,” Obasanjo said.

The agreement, reached in 2005, provided approximately $18 billion in debt cancellation after Nigeria agreed to pay about $12.4 billion to settle the remaining obligations. The deal was completed in April 2006.

Beyond diplomacy, Obasanjo praised Cole’s contribution to journalism, particularly his tenure as managing director of the Daily Times.

According to the former president, Cole introduced an independent editorial board system intended to protect editorial decisions from political interference and strengthen the newspaper’s professional standards.

Obasanjo also highlighted Cole’s diplomatic service as Nigeria’s ambassador to Brazil and Argentina, describing his career as an example of integrity and commitment to public service.

The former president expressed sympathy with Cole’s children and other family members, noting that the death followed the earlier loss of the late diplomat’s wife, Pastor Mina Dugoabere Cole.

He urged the children to remain united and preserve their father’s legacy of integrity, patriotism and service to humanity.

Obasanjo also extended his condolences to the people of the Kalabari Kingdom and prayed for strength for all those mourning the late ambassador.

Cole’s death has drawn tributes from political leaders and members of Nigeria’s media and diplomatic communities, who have acknowledged his contributions to journalism, international relations and public life.