President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Nigerian Tribune newspaper’s board, management and staff on its 75th anniversary.
Established on November 16, 1949 by the first Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo along with his wife, Hannah Dideolu, the Nigerian Tribune has cultivated a legacy of responsible, resilient and crusading journalism that has withstood the test of time.
Tinubu in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, applauded the newspaper, known as the Great Survivor, for faithfully upholding the vision of its founding publisher by promoting constructive nationalism, social justice, democracy and press freedom while advocating for the rights of all Nigerians, irrespective of their economic, social or political backgrounds.
The president recalled and applauded the role of some of the notable journalists who built the Tribune brand such as Alhaji Lateef Jakande, a former governor of Lagos State, Ayo Ojewunmi, alias Pen Atalanta, Chief Tola Adeniyi, Biodun Oduwole, Folu Olamiti and many others amid attempts by state agents to stifle the newspaper out of existence.
The president noted that the Nigerian Tribune had established itself as a bastion of truth and a vigilant watchdog of society over the decades, saying it had performed its constitutional role in nation-building with commendable integrity.
“In today’s complex world, where the internet allows anyone to become a “citizen journalist,” the president emphasised the need for reputable publications like the Nigerian Tribune. These publications provide the public with information grounded in facts, balance, and a commitment to social harmony.
“President Tinubu hoped that the events commemorating this anniversary will honour the Nigerian Tribune’s legacy of courageous journalism and its dedicated staff and set a course for the future, where truth and credibility remain steadfast against falsehood and sensationalism,” the statement added.
The president wished the Nigerian Tribune many more years of impactful journalism that champions democratic ideals and contributes to a progressive society.
