{
  "id": 15522529,
  "title": "Obasanjo: Late Dele Cole One of Nigeria’s Finest Intellectuals",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/obasanjo-late-dele-cole-one-of-nigerias-finest-intellectuals",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-18T23:59:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "This Day",
    "slug": "this-day",
    "url": "https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/10/19/obasanjo-late-dele-cole-one-of-nigerias-finest-intellectuals/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to the late Ambassador Dele Cole, describing him as one of Nigeria's finest intellectuals and a trusted ally in the country's diplomacy, politics and public service. Cole's death at the age of 86 was a significant loss to Nigeria, particularly in the realms of foreign policy and international relations, according to the former president.\n\nObasanjo reflected on his long-standing relationship with Cole, which began during Obasanjo's military tenure and continued into Nigeria's civilian administrations from 1999 to 2007. During Cole's tenure as Special Adviser on International Relations, he played a crucial role in efforts to restore Nigeria's international standing, which had been severely impacted by years of diplomatic isolation.\n\nThe President noted that when he took office in 1999, Nigeria's reintegration into the global community presented a significant challenge. Cole's diplomatic expertise was invaluable in this regard, as he was appointed as the Special Adviser on International Relations. Obasanjo highlighted Cole's extensive travels with him on official engagements and his behind-the-scenes work in rebuilding Nigeria's diplomatic relationships and advancing the country's international interests.\n\nCole's contributions extended beyond diplomacy, with Obasanjo recognizing his exceptional journalism skills, particularly during his tenure as managing director of the Daily Times. Here, he introduced an independent editorial board system to safeguard editorial policy from political interference. Cole's service as Nigeria's Ambassador to Brazil and Argentina further demonstrated his commitment to public service, leaving a legacy of integrity and dedication to the nation.",
  "summary": "James Sowole in Abeeokuta Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late Ambassador Dele Cole as one of Nigeria’s finest intellectuals and a trusted ally whose contributions to the country’s diplomacy,",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}