Veteran journalist Dele Cole dies at 86
Veteran journalist and diplomat Ambassador Dele Cole passed away on October 17, 2026, at the age of 86, according to family sources.
Born on August 4, 1940, in Abonnema, Rivers State, Cole had a distinguished career in journalism and public service. He served as managing director of the Daily Times, one of Nigeria’s prominent newspaper organizations, where he earned recognition for his contributions to the field of journalism.
Cole’s academic journey began at St. Bartholomew’s School in Enugu, followed by Baptist High School in Port Harcourt. He later attended Ibadan Grammar School. In 1962, he continued his education at the University of Otago in New Zealand, where he studied until 1965. He then furthered his studies at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom from 1966 to 1970. Afterward, he became a fellow of King’s College, Cambridge, from 1970 to 1973, eventually earning a doctorate in history.
In addition to his media career, Cole had significant involvement in public service. Between 1999 and 2007, he served as a special adviser on international relations to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. His diplomatic service included appointments as ambassador to Brazil and Argentina, where he worked to enhance Nigeria’s foreign relations.
Cole was also active in politics during the 1990s as a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). His contributions spanned various sectors, leaving a lasting impact on journalism, diplomacy, and public service in Nigeria.
