MORE prominent Nigerians have continued to felicitate the management and staff of Nigeria’s oldest surviving privately-owned newspaper, the Nigerian Tribune on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.
The congratulatory messages extolled the Tribune management and staff of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, the publishers of the Tribune titles for upholding great values and tenets that contributed to the country’s growth over the years while performing leading role in amplifying the voice of the oppressed.
Leading the pack of eminent personalities, a former Vice-President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, disclosed that The Tribune has been at the forefront in the history of the fight for human freedom and democracy in Nigeria.
Atiku said: “It is with a profound sense of joy that I congratulate the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) publishers of the Tribune titles on the attainment of a milestone of 75 years of their publications.
“The Tribune, as the name reveals, has been at the forefront in the history of the fight for human freedom and democracy in Nigeria.
“Birthed in 1949, when the frontiers of colonialism were all over the African continent, the Nigerian Tribune remains the last pen standing in pushing back against oppression in that generation of Nigerian newspapers.
“The legacy of our freedom as a society and our fight for democracy is rooted in the journalistic fervour in which the Tribune titles took charge of those struggles.
“I have been and remain a friend of the Tribune titles for a long time, more so because of my admiration for the ideals of its founder, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“It is not a coincidence that many of the editors of the Tribune during our campaign for a return to democratic rule in Nigeria remain my personal friends to this day.
“While I congratulate the Tribune titles for being the oldest surviving national newspaper in our country, I must also commend the current managers of the newspapers for carrying on the torch of Truth and Courage.”
Obi of Onitsha hails Tribune’s commitment to truth
In a letter addressed to Chairman, ANN Plc, Ambassador Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu, the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe, hailed the Tribune titles for remaining fearless in the commitment to the truth, transparency, and accountability in public life.
The letter, entitled “The Tribune @75 Years Old!” reads: “I write to offer my hearty congratulations to your organisation at the attainment of 75 years of the existence of its flagship newspaper, The Tribune. The Tribune was born during the struggle for Nigeria’s independence and acquitted itself very well in that struggle. It has also earned the distinction of being oldest surviving newspaper in the country. In all its years of its existence, it has always reflected the unwavering quest for the common good of its founder, the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“I wish the Tribune and its sister publications very well in the years ahead and pray that they remain unflinching and fearless in their commitment to the truth, transparency, and accountability in public life.”
Tribune played crucial role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy ―Saraki
In the same vein, a former Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, disclosed that the Tribune titles played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
“Today, I celebrate a true icon of the Nigerian media, the Nigerian Tribune newspaper, on its 75th anniversary. Founded on November 16th, 1949, by the visionary leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Tribune has consistently embodied the highest ideals of journalism. For 75 years, the Tribune stable has served as an exemplar of reliable information and insightful commentary, playing a crucial role in shaping public discourse and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
“This milestone is a testament to the enduring legacies of Chief Awolowo, the dedication of the Awolowo family, and the tireless efforts of the Tribune’s management and staff throughout the years. Their commitment to journalistic integrity, ethics, and public service has earned the Tribune newspapers a place of deep respect and trust within the Nigerian society.
“As the Tribune newspaper marks this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for continued success in informing, inspiring, and empowering Nigerians for generations to come. I congratulate Amb. (Dr.) Tokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu, the chairman of the Tribune Newspapers Group, for keeping the flag flying,” Saraki said.
Tribune still blazing trail in print journalism ―Akpabio
The incumbent President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, in his own message, said despite the demise of the founder of Tribune Newspapers, the late Chief Awolowo, the media outfit has continued to blaze the trail in progressive and development journalism.
In the message issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Jackson Udom, the former two-term governor of Akwa Ibom State and a recipient of the Tribune Governor of The Year, 2011 Award celebrated the Tribune titles, saying “let me congratulate the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles; Nigerian Tribune, Saturday Tribune and Sunday Tribune, on this milestone achievement in the print journalism.
“Tribune newspapers is one of the very few newspapers that stood on the side of the people during the military clampdown on media houses. During those trying times, the newspaper gave its all fighting on the side of the people against military dictatorship. Its drive for exclusive, educative, entertaining and informative stories set it apart from other news organisations.
“The Nigerian Tribune remains an authoritative newspaper in the corridors of power and no leadership whether civilian or military, in the last 75 years can afford to treat the Tribune Editorial with levity. Its editorial page is always studiously studied by political leaders or those aspiring for the position of leadership.
“It is therefore not a surprise that Tribune is today the oldest surviving privately-owned newspaper in Nigeria and this uncommon feat points to the doggedness, resilience and commitment of the staff and management team of the media outfit in the last 75 years.
“It is given that most of our media practitioners currently plying their trades in different media organisations both at home and in the diaspora must have had a stint at the ‘Imalefalafia School of Journalism’ and that should be the eternal joy of the founder, Sage Obafemi Awolowo GCFR.
“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I heartily rejoice and celebrate this milestone and epoch-making anniversary and wish the Tribune family more successful and productive years as it strives to make Nigeria and the world at large, a better place for us all.”
Maiden Ibru hails Nigerian Tribune
Publisher, The Guardian, Lady Maiden Ibru, in a statement issued on Saturday, underscored how the quest for social justice and freedom from the bondage of colonialism inspired the establishment of the Nigerian Tribune in 1949.
“The unconquerable quest for social justice, emancipation from the bondage of colonialism, and the rule of law, combined, inspired the establishment of The Nigerian Tribune in 1949. That underlying philosophy is consistently reflected in its editorial opinions till this day.
“Unsurprisingly, the Tribune’s balanced reportage; constructive criticisms; holding the government, of all shades to account, speaks to the fearless and visionary foresight of its founder and nationalist leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo (1909 – 1987).
“I wish The Tribune many more years of excellent service to the cause of equity, social justice, and enduring development in Nigeria and beyond,” the statement read.
Obaseki celebrates Tribune Newspapers
The immediate past Edo State governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, also felicitated the management and staff of Nigerian Tribune on its 75th anniversary celebration, hailing the newspapers’ immense contributions to societal development.
In a statement by his media aide, Crusoe Osagie, Obaseki praised the Nigerian Tribune for upholding the vision of its founding fathers by championing the noble cause of good governance, transparency, and the rights of citizens over the past 75 years.
He said, “I heartily felicitate the board, management, and staff of the Tribune titles on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.
“As one of Nigeria’s most enduring and respected media establishments, founded by Nigeria’s first Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and his wife, Hannah, the Tribune has continued to shatter the glass ceiling of credible journalism, upholding the principles of truth, fairness, and accountability.
“Through its fearless and responsible reporting, the newspaper has set the gold standard in the profession, effectively playing its societal watchdog role, providing a strong voice to millions of Nigerians, and contributing significantly to the progress and development of our country.”
Obaseki further commended the Tribune for its resilience in navigating the challenges of the evolving media landscape while staying true to its core values.
“As you celebrate this diamond jubilee, I acknowledge and celebrate your tremendous impact, and salute the courage, dedication, and expertise with which you have navigated the turbulent media space, remaining steadfast in advocating for good governance, transparency, and the rights of citizens, as envisioned by your founding fathers,” Obaseki said.
Kogi gov felicitates Tribune @ 75
In the same vein, Kogi State governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on media, Ismail Isah, extolled the leadership role the Tribune titles has been playing in shaping narratives and holding government accountable by setting agenda for truth, transparency, accountability, social justice, democracy and press freedom.
Governor Ododo while celebrating the enduring legacy of the Tribune titles, as exemplified in the practice of responsible journalism, noted that the effort has endeared the newspaper to many of its readers in Nigeria.
The governor, who reaffirmed the role of responsible journalism in sustaining democracy and the rule of law, said “The Tribune has distinguished itself as a reputable news organisation that thrives on fact, balance and objectivity even in the face of unprofessional tendencies that lead to misrepresentation and misinformation created by purveyors of fake news.”
Governor Ododo expressed optimism that the 75th anniversary celebration would encourage the Tribune to sustain the pursuit of truth and ethics of journalism, which he believes are necessary ingredients for a stable, and enduring democracy in Nigeria.
Odu’a Investment celebrates Tribune
Also lending its voice to the celebration of the Nigerian Tribune, the Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Board of Directors, Otunba Bimbola Ashiru, and the Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa, hailed the newspaper for attaining a “historic milestone.”
Otunba Ashiru said the “OICL and The Nigerian Tribune are united in our shared heritage as products of the visionary leadership of the great Chief Obafemi Awolowo.”
According to Ashiru, sustaining an organisation for 75 years is no small feat, adding that this accomplishment is a testament to the enduring foresight of Chief Awolowo and the resilience of Ambassador Awolowo Dosunmu, the Chairperson, Odu’a Foundation, the foundation arm of Odu’a Investment Company Limited and the Tribune team.
“I specially celebrate Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, whose leadership continues to uphold the vision of the great sage praying that the Nigerian Tribune will continue to thrive and inspire generations with its unwavering dedication to nation-building,” Ashiru added.
In his message, the GMD, Mr Yinusa extended warm congratulations to the oldest-running private newspaper in Nigeria.
According to Yinusa, OICL as a partner in building a prosperous South-West and Nigeria at large celebrates the Nigerian Tribune on this remarkable milestone.
He noted that the Nigerian Tribune is more than a newspaper but a national institution with a legacy deeply interwoven with the history of Nigeria.
“From its early days, it championed and continues to champion the interests of the people, upholding justice, truth, and progress,” Yinusa said.
Oyefeso hails Nigerian Tribune
Also, the President, Kotco Group & Aare Gbo-Gbo-Gbo (GGG) of Remo-Land, Dr Kola Oyefeso, hailed the Nigerian Tribune for its various significant impacts it has had on the society, particularly in the promotion of democracy and good governance.
“This is to heartily congratulate the Chairman, Board of Directors, and Management of the Nigerian Tribune on this momentous occasion of your 75th anniversary. Your newspaper’s enduring legacy is a testament to the visionary leadership of its founder, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“Established in 1949, the Nigerian Tribune has consistently defied odds, publishing without compromise, even when faced with adversity. Today, we honour those who have ensured its survival, particularly the current Chairman, Board of Directors, journalists, and workforce.
“One is not being hyperbolic in saying that the Nigerian Tribune has significantly impacted society in various ways and essentially: In promoting democracy and good governance through holding leaders accountable, investigative reporting, exposing corruption and maladministration.
“Furthermore, it has stood out in shaping public opinion with thought-provoking editorials and columns, while influencing national discourse on critical issues.
“We cannot forget in a hurry the Nigerian Tribune’s efforts on social justice and advocacy, as it has been amplifying marginalised voices, reporting on human rights, gender equality, and social justice. All these and much more make the newspaper stand out head and shoulders among contemporary newspapers.
“As the nation looks forward to celebrating the Nigerian Tribune’s centenary, we pray for its continued growth and success. May the newspaper forever remain a beacon of truth and excellence in journalism,” Aare Oyefeso said.
Adefuye, Yoruba Unity Forum eulogise Tribune
In a related development, the Yoruba Unity Forum also congratulated the Nigerian Tribune for innovating to improve on its customer experience and expanding the readership base over the past years.
The forum, in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Senator Anthony Adefuye, and entitled “The Hallmark Of Excellence At 75,” averred that the Nigerian Tribune has in the last 75 years continued to achieve the lofty goals included in its mission statement.
“It was [on] the 16th day of November 1949, when the Avatar, Chief Obafemi Awolowo established the Nigerian Tribune to provide news and information to all Nigerians as its mission. The goals of the newspaper also include: gathering news, disseminating information, providing value-added services and remaining the best newspaper. Over the years, The Nigerian Tribune newspaper can be said to have achieved these goals guided by its mission statement. It is therefore not surprising that The Nigerian Tribune newspaper is today the oldest surviving private newspaper in Nigeria.
“To sustain its competitive edge in those days when information dissemination was largely through the print media, the Nigerian Tribune developed a policy of parading journalistic and literary giants among its columnists such as Bisi Onabanjo’s ‘Aiyekooto,’ Chief Bola Ige’s ‘Uncle Bola’s Column,’ Dr. Tai Solarin’s ‘State of the Nation,’ Chief Ebenezer Babatope’s ‘Periscope,’ and a host of other prolific writers and columnists.
“I am highly impressed that the management and staff of the newspaper have continued to innovate to improve on the customer experience and expanding the readership base of the newspaper through its online publications and by maintaining a strong presence on the social media platforms.
“In the absence of its founders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Yeye Oodua, H. I. D. Awolowo, the current management led by Dr. Olatokunbo Awołowo Dosumu must be commended for doing a great job by maintaining excellence and ensuring the goals of the newspaper are kept in focus.
“Indeed the Nigerian Tribune has become the voice of the people, Hence, I salute you for maintaining the Standard over the years and I do hope you will sustain this legacy.
“Conclusively, I salute the inspiration of our father, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, for establishing the newspaper 75 years ago, while also thanking the current management for sustaining the ethos of good journalism till date.
“Therefore, on behalf of myself and family, I commend the hard work and resilience of the management team. I congratulate The Nigerian Tribune and wish the newspaper Happy 75ª Anniversary,” the statement read.
Senator Natasha felicitates Nigerian Tribune
Also eulogising the newspaper, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central at the National Assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, extended warm felicitations to the Nigerian Tribune on its 75th anniversary.
The senator in a press statement issued by her Chief Press Secretary, Israel Arogbonlo, praised the newspaper’s commitment to excellence in journalism and its role in shaping Nigeria’s media landscape.
“The Nigerian Tribune has been a beacon of truth and a trusted source of information for generations of Nigerians. The Tribune’s 75-year journey is a testament to its resilience, adaptability, and passion for storytelling. I commend the entire Tribune family – management, editors, journalists, and staff – for their tireless efforts in upholding the highest standards of journalism.
“I look forward to the Tribune’s continued growth, innovation, and commitment to truth-seeking. May its next chapter be filled with even greater success, impactful storytelling, and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people. I congratulate the entire Tribune family on this remarkable milestone,” she said.
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