The minister of solid minerals development Dr Dele Alake Thursday received Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Fellowship and pledged to improve the publicity of government policies for a well-informed citizenry.
The award recognises the minister’s outstanding contributions to strategic communication, ethical public engagement and national development.
The conferment ceremony, which took place in the minister’s office in Abuja brought together officials of the council who described the honour as a recognition of Alake’s distinguished career in journalism, public communication and public service, as well as his commitment to professionalism and excellence.
Speaking during the event, the director-general of ARCON, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo said the honour is a fitting acknowledgement of a leader who has successfully deployed strategic communication as a critical tool for driving reforms in Nigeria’s mining sector.
“Since assuming office, Mr Alake has combined policy innovation with purposeful public engagement to reposition the solid minerals sector as a major pillar of economic diversification. Through transparent communication and sustained stakeholder engagement, the ministry has deepened investor confidence, built public trust in ongoing reforms and amplified awareness of key policy initiatives, including the fight against illegal mining, the promotion of mineral beneficiation, value addition and the attraction of responsible investments,” he said.
The fellowship, he added, also reflects Alake’s longstanding reputation as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished journalists and media professionals.
“Before joining government, he distinguished himself through decades of impactful journalism and strategic communications, earning widespread respect for his professionalism, integrity and dedication to nation-building,” Fadolapo said.
Reacting, the minister expressed appreciation to ARCON for acknowledging his enduring contributions to the communications profession and public service, saying that the honour validates the important role of effective communication in public administration and reinforces its commitment to openness, accountability, and sustained engagement with citizens, investors, host communities and other stakeholders in advancing the Renewed Hope agenda for the solid minerals sector.