Tributes Flow As Ademola Osinubi Marks 70th Birthday In Lagos

Renowned journalist and the former managing director and Editor-in-Chief of Punch Nigeria Limited, Sir Ademola Osinubi, was literally “drenched” in tributes and commendations as he celebrated his 70th birthday in a graceful manner on Monday, 20th October 2025.

The 70th birthday thanksgiving and Eucharist service, which took place at Methodist Cathedral of Peace and Excellence, Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together an array of dignitaries, crème de la crème of Nigerian journalism, friends, families, and close allies who gathered to honour Sir Ademola Osinubi, a mentor to generations of Nigerian journalists.

Leading the tributes was the Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP Media Group, Mr Azu Ishiekwene, who reflected on his journey under Osinubi’s mentorship, recalling over two decades of working together at the Punch.

He said, “Sir Ademola Osinubi is my mentor. He was very consequential in my 21 or 22 years journey in Punch. He looked after me like a younger brother. He remains a role model in many areas, whether in terms of professional practice or in terms of his character and commitment to the upliftment of the best ethics and values of the profession.”

He praised Osinubi for leading by example and standing steadfastly through both good and challenging times, saying, “I wish him more years in good health, more money in joy and in peace and happiness.”
Ishiekwene urged young professionals to follow in Osinubi’s footsteps.

In his tributes, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, observed the powerful presence of distinguished guests who gathered to honour the former Punch MD, even on a busy Monday.

According to him, “That shows that he is a good man. What he did in PUNCH, where he actively spent his working years, are the things that speak for him today.”

Omotoso described Osinubi as a gentleman and loving father, and highlighted the reward of hard work and good relationships that Osinubi enjoys today.

“I wish him all the best, and that he should continue to do all the things that have made people come and celebrate him today,” he added.

The Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr Eze Anaba, highlighted Osinubi’s incredible career trajectory through the ranks to the pinnacle of leadership at PUNCH, saying, “A man who has done so much for the industry. “Incredible, brilliant, a man with integrity. I can only wish him well. And I pray that he lives in good health for many years of his life. He will be in good health and prosperity.”

He urged others to take inspiration from the way Osinubi built his life and career and to emulate him going forward.

The spiritual dimension of the tribute was eloquently expressed by Bishop of Ijebu Methodist Church, Nigeria, Reverend Solomon Abayomi Adegbite, who reflected on the theme, “Products of God’s mercy,” and acknowledged the enduring goodness of God in Osinubi’s life.

“I see his life as an ideal, because he loves to do things the way of God,” the Reverend affirmed. He read from Lamentations 3:22, underscoring the idea that despite trials, it is God’s mercies that sustain people.

“God has kept him alive, not just being alive. God kept him to be purposeful, to know why he is living and to do the same,” Adegbite said, concluding with prayers for continual blessings.
Osinubi’s family also took part in the celebrations, with his second daughter, Oluranti Osinubi, describing her father as “very present,” not just in title but in his actions.

“One of the key things he taught us, even as children, is to be patient, godly and content with what we have. Integrity is the watchword in our household,” she said. Oluranti expressed pride in the standard her father has set for them, which currently guides their daily lives.

The Choir of Excellence, representing the church community, honoured Osinubi for his generosity and steadfast support. Acknowledging his preference for discreet giving.

The choir expressed deep appreciation through the presentation of a painting, intended to serve as a visible symbol of gratitude in his home.

Sir Ademola Osinubi, a former managing director and Editor-in-Chief of Punch Nigeria Limited, spent 27 years as the MD. During his tenure, he led the newspaper through significant challenges and successfully maintained its reputation for reliable reporting and editorial excellence.

His leadership is credited with steering Punch Nigeria through turbulent political periods and setting high standards in Nigerian journalism.