President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Nigerian Tribune on its 75th anniversary, praising the publication’s enduring legacy of promoting social justice, democracy, and press freedom. In a statement issued by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the newspaper for upholding the vision of its founding publisher, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and his wife Hannah, who established the Nigerian Tribune on November 16, 1949.
Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of veteran journalists, including:
- Alhaji Lateef Jakande, former Governor of Lagos State
- Ayo Ojewunmi, known as “Pen Atalanta”
- Chief Tola Adeniyi
- Biodun Oduwole
- Folu Olamiti
These pioneers helped sustain the newspaper’s influence despite pressures to silence it. Tinubu noted that the Nigerian Tribune has established itself as a bastion of truth and a vigilant watchdog of society, upholding its constitutional duty to inform and empower the public with integrity.
The President emphasized the importance of credible journalism rooted in facts and social harmony, particularly in the digital age. He expressed hope that the anniversary celebrations will honor the publication’s legacy and inspire a future of steadfast dedication to truth and responsible reporting.
Tinubu wished the Nigerian Tribune continued success in championing democratic values and contributing to Nigeria’s progress. This congratulatory message is not the President’s first; he previously congratulated Leadership Newspaper Group on its 20th anniversary.
