‘Your Greatest Legacy Is The Lives You Changed’ — Kola Daniel Pays Emotional Tribute To Sunday Dare At 60

A heartfelt open letter celebrating the 60th birthday of former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Sunday Akin Dare, has shed fresh light on the former minister’s influence as a mentor, administrator and nation-builder.

Penned by Kola Daniel, Special Assistant on Media in the Office of the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, the tribute described Dare as more than a former boss, portraying him as a leader whose impact extends far beyond politics and public office.

Daniel recounted how his relationship with Dare began on 7 September 2019, a meeting he described as one of the most defining moments of his personal and professional journey.

Reflecting on Dare’s tenure as sports minister, Daniel praised the presidential aide for creating opportunities and investing in people.

“You saw potential where others saw only performance,” he wrote.

“You nurtured talent, rewarded diligence and created opportunities for many of us to thrive.”

Dare, now serving as Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, marked his 60th birthday on Thursday. The former minister has continued to attract tributes from associates and political allies, including President Tinubu, who praised his professionalism and contributions to governance and public communication.

In the letter, Daniel stressed that Dare’s support did not end with his exit from the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

“Many leaders move on when the office changes; you did not,” he wrote.

According to him, Dare remained a constant source of guidance and encouragement during periods of transition, offering mentorship and opening doors for younger professionals.

Daniel highlighted what he described as Dare’s defining qualities — resilience, innovative thinking, professionalism and unwavering commitment to national service.

He also praised the former minister’s dedication to youth empowerment, human capital development and nation-building.

“Your greatest legacy is not merely in the offices you have held or the policies you championed, but in the people you have inspired, mentored and empowered to dream bigger,” Daniel wrote.

Dare, a former journalist, communications strategist and sports administrator, served as Minister of Youth and Sports Development between 2019 and 2023 before joining the Presidency as media adviser.

The emotional tribute concluded with prayers for continued good health, wisdom and many more years of service to the nation.