‘We were in the crucible together to birth the APC’ — Tinubu celebrates Sunday Dare at 60

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Sunday Dare, his special adviser on media and public communications, on his 60th birthday, describing him as a loyal ally and key figure in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued on Thursday, Tinubu said Dare played a significant role in the political consultations and strategic engagements that led to the emergence of the APC.

The president recalled that Dare returned from the United States to join the struggle for a “progressive democratic order” in Nigeria and remained committed to the cause.

“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, until the birth of our governing All Progressives Congress,” Tinubu said.

He praised Dare’s “dexterity, tenacity, industry, resilience, professionalism, and multitasking”, noting that the media adviser demonstrated leadership and courage while serving as his chief of staff/special adviser on media and publicity.

Tinubu said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari also recognised Dare’s qualities, leading to his appointment first as executive commissioner for stakeholder management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and later as minister of youth and sports development.

The president added that Dare has brought his expertise in digital and new media to the work of the administration’s communications team.

Tinubu also commended the presidential aide for his contributions to community development, journalism, and national service.

He said Dare was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and was installed as the Agbaakin of Ogbomosoland in Oyo state.

“I thank him for his partnership, his useful services to our progressive front, and his continuous, invaluable work in our renewed hope administration,” the president said.

Tinubu wished Dare good health, wisdom, and many more years of service to Nigeria.