EMINENT Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu and governors, have felicitated the chairman of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles, Ambassador Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, the management, the editorial board as members of staff of the company on the occasion of the newspaper’s 75th anniversary today.
In separate statements, the president and other top politicians comprising governors, past and serving, legislators, business moguls and experts from diverse fields of human endeavour praised the Tribune for weathering the storms of the past 75 years and waxing strong in reporting truth with courage.
Tinubu hails Tribune’s progressive journalism
A statement issued on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said: “Established on November 16, 1949, by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a distinguished statesman and the first Premier of the old Western Region, 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.
“President Tinubu applauds 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 remembers and applauds 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 the attempts by state agents to stifle the newspaper out of existence.
“The President notes that the Nigerian Tribune has established itself as a bastion of truth and a vigilant watchdog of society over the decades. It has performed its constitutionally mandated role in nation-building with commendable integrity.
“In today’s complex world, where the internet allows anyone to become a ‘citizen journalist’, the President emphasises 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 hopes 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 President wishes the Nigerian Tribune many more years of impactful journalism that champions democratic ideals and contributes to a progressive society.”
Tribune story is worth telling –Sultan
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, in tribute in a statement he personally signed, said: “I join other eminent Nigerians to celebrate the Nigerian Tribune newspaper on the occasion of its 75 years anniversary.
“It is indeed a remarkable achievement to attain that milestone in any given temporal circumstance and even more particularly noteworthy today, with all the peculiarities that have reshaped the economic history of our dear country since the golden era pioneered by our inimitable founding fathers: the Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello; Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.
“These great minds, the founding fathers of our dear country and their disciples, bequeathed to us sterling legacies that transcended mere independence from the colonial masters. But their greatest legacy is in their visions for Nigeria, of a dynamically prosperous nation of people.
“Indeed, these men did not leave their visions in the realm of illusions; they formulated and built enduring institutions that have stood the test of time. They also lived the very values they preached.
“The Nigerian Tribune is one of the products of the visions of the founding fathers. The fact that it has stood strong for seventy-five years is an attestation to the fecundity of their minds, the richness of their visions and desire to create the best bequests for Nigeria’s greatness and the future generations.
“To attain the age of seventy-five years, indeed, is worth celebrating. Even as humans, age seventy-five is no longer certain and assured in a world plagued by innumerable socio-political challenges, economic suffocation, war and famine. Given the intemperate nature of the Nigerian economic climate today, managing any business interest has become even more challenging.
“This is even the reason why the Tribune story is worth telling and maybe, perhaps, others may gain some insight into the enduring strategies that the founders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his jewel of inestimable value, Chief Mrs HID Awolowo, implanted in its foundation.
“Perhaps one of the reasons the Nigerian Tribune has remained an enduring institution long after the transition of its envisioners is the underlining principle of its foundation, which is to be the voice for the voiceless, protect and champion the cause of the masses and stand on the side of truth against all forms of oppression.
“The Nigerian Tribune has unwaveringly continued to perform these roles. It has promoted the causes of the oppressed without any recourse to regional, ethnic and tribal dispositions. Its editorial comments have chastised leaders in government who abused their power and acclaimed those that served their people well.
“All these are not without their consequences though. The newspaper had suffered shutdown by governments intolerant of criticism and loss of patronage from those who felt the sting of its scathing editorials.
“But one critical aspect of the Nigerian Tribune story that should delight us as Nigerians is that a Nigerian enterprise can indeed endure and survive. As the oldest surviving privately and indigenously owned newspaper, the Nigerian Tribune embodies the true Nigerian spirit of resilience and offers a glimmer of hope that our dear country is not a cemetery of beautiful dreams, after all. The newspaper has shown us that given unflinching determination, indigenous enterprise can survive and thrive in our dear country.
“In the same vein, with the same kind of determination, dogged perseverance, unremitting focus on the nation and of course faith in God, we can surmount the many challenges of nation-building and leverage our many potentials, not the least of which is our enormous human capital, come out strong to lead Africa out of its conundrum, in the 21st century.
“Like the story of Tribune, the critical factor is always leadership. We must therefore focus on leadership in our discourses as we engage in the unrelenting efforts to salvage our country. Congratulations and happy 75th anniversary. We pray for many more decades of service to humanity.”
Very well-deserved kudos to Tribune –Anyaoku
Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, said: “Very well deserved kudos to Tribune as it celebrates its 75th anniversary and remains the oldest private Nigerian newspaper.
“This is an occasion for recalling the vision of its founder, the late Sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo GCFR, the celebrated Pan-Africanist and outstanding Nigerian leader.
“In keeping with its founder’s vision, the Tribune newspaper has over the last seventy-five years remained a remarkable voice of Pan-Africanism and Nigerian patriotism, advocating in consistently persuasive style, how to promote Nigeria’s development and political stability.
“It has also continued to provide to Nigerian and African scholars and thinkers with a platform for articulating their views on global affairs, our country’s domestic issues, and on cooperation and unity among African countries.
“I salute the Nigerian Tribune at 75 and wish it a long and unceasing active life.”
Tribune has earned its place as legacy of forthrightness, national icon –Makinde
Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, commended the Nigerian Tribune for championing the cause of the people and speaking truth to power over its 75 years of existence.
He noted that the newspaper has gone through the thick and thin with the people, standing with them in times of peace and peril.
The governor said: “On behalf of the government and good people of Oyo State, I felicitate the board, management and staff of the Tribune Newspaper Group on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.
“Over the years, Tribune has championed the cause of the people.
“In times of peace and peril, it has stood with the people. In changing seasons, Tribune has remained constant in its mission of speaking truth to power; never wavering, never changing, never quaking.
“For its commitment to the people, the Tribune Newspaper has earned its place as a legacy of forthrightness and a national icon.
“As the newspaper group hits the Diamond, it is our prayer that Tribune will get stronger and better so that it can serve the people further.”
Tribune a beacon of excellence in journalism –Governor Dapo Abiodun
The Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in a statement he personally signed, said: “Since it rolled out its first lead story titled ‘Chemists protest’ on November 16, 1979, the Nigerian Tribune has been a beacon of excellence in journalism.
“The paper was founded to combat colonialism and bad governance, and it has stood gallantly for these causes in the last 75 years, often at great personal cost, including state repression, detention of its reporters and editors as prisoners of conscience, seizure of its copies and the use of other newspapers to undermine its work.
“It has navigated Nigeria’s turbulent political and economic terrain with aplomb, and constantly reinvented itself to be ahead of many of its competitors.
“It is Nigeria’s most celebrated political and business newspaper, a definitive and authentic authority on Nigerian history; the quintessential African newspaper of unblemished repute. The Nigerian Tribune is a national treasure.
“If, today, the Nigerian Tribune is a paper of record and Nigeria’s oldest surviving privately-owned newspaper, it is because of the genius of the Founder, Chief Obafemi Awolowo (SAN, GCFR), the excellence of its craft, the unique ability to be deeply introspective and analytical, even about its own operations, and the passion and dedication of the owners to the cause of the emancipation of the Black race in general and Nigerians in particular from mental slavery.
“On behalf of the people and government of Ogun State, I celebrate the Nigerian Tribune at 75. I congratulate its reporters and editors, columnists and other members of staff for their dedication to the propagation of the ideas of our sage, Papa Obafemi Awolowo, a towering African giant, and urge them to remain steadfast and resolute in informing, educating and entertaining Nigerians with the best journalism on offer.”
I pay special tributes to Chief Awolowo –Governor ‘Biodun Oyebanji
The Ekiti State governor, ‘Biodun Oyebanji, said: “It is my pleasure to heartily congratulate the board, management and staff of Nigerian Tribune newspapers on the significant attainment of seventy-five years of continuous journalistic excellence since it birth in 1949.
“Special tributes to the founding father of this great media organisation, Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo, SAN whose vision for excellence and freedom of expression continues to serve as a guiding compass for the media conglomerate.
“The Nigerian Tribune title is no doubt the oldest in Nigeria; it has survived various inclement political environments and antagonistic regimes. Starting out as a mouthpiece for the end to colonialism in Nigeria, to becoming the voice of the opposition politics, a committed platform for anti-military campaign and the touch bearer for multiparty democracy, it is commendable that the media organisation is still standing strong today.
“It is exciting that in spite of the many scars and injuries sustained in the defence of human freedom, the Nigerian Tribune remains a leading example in media independence, editorial impartiality and impeccable integrity.
“I therefore want to, once again, heartily felicitate the management and staff, past and present, for sustaining the culture of integrity and excellence with which the founder established the outfit seventy-five years ago. As a model, not only for Nigeria but Africa, every effort must be made to ensure the outfit continues to be a trailblazer in journalism and media enterprises.
“On behalf of the government and people of Ekiti State, kindly accept my warm congratulations on the celebration of your 75th anniversary.”
A newspaper of all seasons –Ex-Governor Gbenga Daniel
A former governor of Ogun State, Chief Gbenga Daniel, who presently represents Ogun East Senatorial District in the Senate, congratulated the Nigerian Tribune, “a tabloid that has refused to yield to the weather of time, the space of political turmoil, the vagaries of economics and the vicissitudes of life.”
Chief Daniel said: “We must continue to commend the vision and dream of the founder of this newspaper of all seasons.
“The Nigerian Tribune, to many of us, has evolved as part of Nigeria’s political history and the people’s struggles for independence yet surviving the changing times and culture. How the tabloid has done this, I think we must commend, and deeply too, the efforts of both the past, and most especially the current management team under the leadership of Dr Mrs Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu that has kept the flag flying at such a high altitude and resilience.
“Most of us who grew up in the Oke-Ado and Imalefealafia area of Ibadan, the hitherto political headquarters of the then Western Region where most of the region’s earliest leaders were nurtured, will appreciate the significance of the voice represented by the Tribune then and now, especially because the newspaper organisation was our next-door neighbour. The newspaper nurtured the second generation of the most refined and finest in Nigerian journalism, and not surprisingly seventy-five years after, it still does.
“Tribune was the academy that has grown many writers and columnists; most of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s thoughts on nation building and political administration are eminently preserved on the pages of various editions of the Nigerian Tribune while the editorials have always served as the voice of the weak and downtrodden.
“Tribune at 75 is a remarkable journey in resilience and I am proud to be associated with the management and I have strong faith in their efforts that our great-grandchildren will also read the Nigerian Tribune and so will their own grandchildren, too.”
Tribune pride of all lovers of truth –Oyinlola
A former Osun State governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, described the Nigerian Tribune as the pride of all lovers of truth in Nigeria, describing its survival in the face of all odds as divine.
He said: “The Nigerian Tribune is a living symbol of the values of courage and righteousness which its founder, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, epitomised.
“I am happy that 37 years after the transition of the sage, his work has continued to speak as loud as he did in defence of the people. It is particularly pleasing to note that its age notwithstanding, the Nigerian Tribune has continued to innovate and strengthen its operations.
“I congratulate Ambassador Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, the chairman of the ANN Plc, publishers of the Tribune, on keeping the flag flying. I rejoice with the management and staff of the company for remaining true to the founding philosophy of the newspaper.
“Those of us who truly believe in what Papa Awolowo stood for will continue to support the newspaper in whatever capacity we can. By God’s grace, the Nigerian Tribune will live forever. Congratulations.”
An inspiration to generations of aspiring journalists –Ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi
Former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, said: “It is with a profound sense of honour that I write to congratulate the Nigerian Tribune as it marks its remarkable 75 years of dedicated service in journalism and news reportage.
“For over seven decades, the Nigerian Tribune has consistently remained a credible source of reporting, advocating for truth, advancing our democracy and national development with staunch commitment to the good of the people.
“Established in 1949 by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, making it the oldest private newspaper in Nigeria, the Nigerian Tribune has established itself not only as a reliable platform for public discourse, but also rich repository of Nigeria’s history, upholding the highest ideals of journalism, truth-telling and integrity.
“Tribune’s effort, resilience and commitment to democratic values are well documented and commendable. Your commitment to objective reporting has set a standard in the Nigerian media space and served as inspiration to generations of aspiring journalists.
“During the nation’s struggle for independence, the Nigerian Tribune provided a voice for the struggle and when the military rule began its war against freedom of the press during the struggle for democracy, you stood with the people and remained steadfast in your advocacy for democratic values even when it was more convenient to do otherwise.”
Tribune has surpassed minimum age for a national newspaper –Aregbesola
Former governor of Osun State, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, said: “The Nigerian Tribune newspaper was founded in 1949 by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. It is the oldest surviving private or any newspaper in Nigeria. The newspaper has clocked 75 years and this calls for much celebration.
“The ride through these 75 years has been stormy, dangerous, tempestuous, but more importantly, successful.
“These 75 years are no mean feat. Small local newspapers have a lifespan of 10 to 50 years. Then regional newspapers on the average will live for between 20 to hundred years. National newspapers live for between 50 and 200 years.
“Thankfully, Tribune has surpassed the minimum age for a national newspaper and hopefully when it will hit the 200-year mark, none of us alive today would be around to be part of the celebration.
“Chief Awolowo was a visionary. He established the newspaper for the cause of the anti-colonial struggle for which he was a foremost actor.
“It was clear to him then that an organ of struggle for independence and nationalism was critical and strategic to his political ambitions.
“For good measure, Tribune has lived to justify the objectives of its founder. Chief Awolowo was a social welfarist. The newspaper has remained on the path of promoting this idea till today.
“Tribune stood up to the British imperial domination, robustly defended the social democratic programmes of the parties of Baba Awolowo and vigorously resisted the military dictatorships of the late 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s with the civilian interregnum of 1979-1983 and a diarchy of 1992 to 1993.
“The newspaper was a Trojan in the anti-corruption struggles throughout the military era. It creditably supported the heroic struggle of workers, students, farmers, market women and men as well as all other popular forces against the arbitrary and despotic military rules, illegal racist minority rule in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe and apartheid South Africa.
“The Tribune was involved with the popular democratic forces in the struggle to build a strong progressive, prosperous and productive Nigeria that will stimulate the renaissance of the Blacks worldwide.”
Tribune occupies a special place in Nigeria’s history –Ex-Governor Ibikunle Amosun
Former governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, said: “It is my pleasure to congratulate the Nigerian Tribune on the auspicious occasion of its 75th anniversary.
“The Nigerian Tribune occupies a special place in the annals of Nigeria. It was pre-eminent in the struggle for the nation’s political independence and no history of the successful struggle for Nigeria’s independence can be complete and credible without copious reference to the contributions of the Nigerian Tribune and its illustrious founders, Papa Obafemi Awolowo and his jewel of inestimable value, Mama H.I.D Awolowo.
“The Nigerian Tribune has equally been part of the political development of Nigeria, playing a crucial role at different times at installing democratic rule. In each of the democratic dispensations, the Nigerian Tribune has also proved to be the conscience of the nation and the voice of the voiceless. Its commitment to democracy, human rights and the well-being of Nigerians has never waned over the years.
“It is therefore, my honour to identify with the board, management and staff of the Nigerian Tribune on the celebration of the 75th anniversary of this national treasure; the Nigerian Tribune.
“I pray that as the organisation opens another chapter in its chequered history, it will remain the beacon of hope and the defender of the Nigerian people as envisioned by its illustrious founders.”
Tribune has been beacon of journalistic integrity for over seven decades – Senator Aminu Tambuwal
Former governor of Sokoto State and Chairman, Senate Committee on Housing and Urban Development, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal Mutawallen Sokoto), said: “As Tribune marks its 75th anniversary, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the management, staff and entire editorial team of this reputable newspaper.
“For over seven decades, the Tribune has been a beacon of journalistic integrity, shedding light on critical issues and informing the public with fairness and accuracy.
“Since its inception, Tribune has consistently upheld the values of professionalism and independence, playing an indispensable role in shaping public opinion and contributing to the national discourse.
“The newspaper’s unwavering commitment to truth and its dedication to fostering democracy has earned it the trust and respect of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
“In this momentous milestone, I commend the Tribune for its resilience in the face of numerous challenges, and for remaining a strong pillar in the Nigerian media landscape.
“As you celebrate this remarkable achievement, I look forward to your continued contributions to nation-building, promoting social justice and advancing the ideals of freedom of expression.
“Once again, congratulations to the entire Tribune family on this 75th anniversary. May you continue to thrive in the years ahead.”
Tribune remains ‘an indestructible echo of wisdom’ –Reverend Fape
The Bishop of Remo and the Archbishop of Lagos Ecclesiastical Province of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Reverend Dr Michael Olusina Fape, said: “I count it a great privilege to write this goodwill message on the 75th anniversary celebration of the Tribune Newspaper which I described as “an indestructible echo of wisdom” of Papa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, when preaching at the 60th anniversary of the Tribune Newspaper on 16th November, 2009.
“Today, we celebrate 75 years of uninterrupted publication of the Nigerian Tribune, a daily national newspaper, the oldest surviving private newspaper that was established on 16th November, 1949 by the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a foremost African nationalist.
“Certainly, for three-quarters of a century, the Tribune Newspaper has informed, inspired and engaged readers, keeping true to the principles of truth, integrity, and dedication to the public.
“Over the years, it has earned multiple awards for its journalistic excellence, both in print and digital media, highlighting its commitment to reporting accuracy and in depth.
“During major events, such as natural disasters, political transitions and global crises, the Tribune Newspaper has provided reliable and comprehensive coverage that has kept its readers well-informed and connected to timely developments.
“It is my prayer that this good legacy of the Tribune Newspaper will continue to thrive and shape conversations for many more years to come.
“I wish the management and all categories of staff of the Tribune Newspaper continued success and happy 75th anniversary celebrations.”
It’s been 75 years of pacesetting, bold, courageous service to God, humanity –Ayo Ladigbolu
The Archbishop Emeritus of the Methodist Church Nigeria, the Most Reverend Ayo Ladigbolu, said: “Happy celebrations to the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles, on this 75th anniversary of pacesetting, bold and courageous service to God and humanity.
“May the new-look Tribune go from strength to strength, increase in readership and remain a pacesetter like its founder in the pursuit of excellence, credibility, sincere patriotism and progressive journalism.”
Words that come to mind are colossus, legendary, epic, extraordinary, unparalleled… –Tunji Lawal-Solarin
Tunji Lawal-Solarin said: “As I send my congratulations to the Nigerian Tribune on reaching its 75th anniversary, words that come to mind are colossus, legendary, epic, extraordinary, tenacity, visionary, unparalleled.
“Each of these captures the journey of this iconic newspaper from its inception to its establishment as a mainstay in Nigerian journalism.
“A legacy of the remarkable Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Tribune has lived as a perpetual testament to his vision and ideals, keeping his voice alive on every page of its publication. To many of us, it represents an enduring connection to the memory of Pa Awolowo and his timeless legacy.
“As for the chairman of the board, Ambassador Dr Mrs Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, her role has been nothing short of exceptional. She stands as the torchbearer and guardian of the Awolowo legacy, leading with intellectual depth, resilience and a steadfast commitment.
“Balancing her responsibilities as Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation and Convener of the HID Awolowo Foundation, she embodies the strength and grace of the Awolowo family, inspiring confidence in the continuity of Papa’s legacy.
“My personal connection to the Tribune is twofold. First, as a teenager, I remember my cousin, Adewale Solarin, who always purchased the Tribune without fail. When I asked him why, he told me, ‘I feel connected to Pa Awolowo through the Tribune’. This simple act left a lasting impression on me and instilled a lifelong sense of duty to support the ideals associated with Chief Awolowo.
“The second memory comes from my time in Kaduna in the early 1980s, while working as an Area Manager for African Petroleum Plc. Through my work, I interacted with prominent Northern leaders and was pleasantly surprised to learn that many of them read the Tribune, though only in the privacy of their homes. One day, I asked a high-ranking official why, and he confided, ‘In private, many of us Northern leaders and elites admire Chief Awolowo. Reading the Tribune lets us stay close to his philosophy and ideas. This revelation left a profound impact on me as a young Southerner working in the North.
“As Chairman of the Remo Growth and Development Foundation, I made it a point to channel our media engagements through the Tribune. We felt it was our duty, as proud Remo sons and daughters, to identify with Pa Awolowo’s legacy.
“On this milestone occasion, I extend my deepest congratulations to the chairman and the board of Tribune Newspapers for their commitment to journalistic excellence and the noble ideals of Papa Awolowo.
“May the Nigerian Tribune continue to stand as a pacesetter, the epitome of world-class journalism in Nigeria and a model for generations to come. Long may it flourish and expand its reach.”
This is a testimony to Papa Awolowo’s enduring vision –Professor Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka
Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation to the President, African Development Bank, Abidjan, Professor Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, said: “On behalf of myself and my family, I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations on your 75th anniversary.
“This is a remarkable milestone and a testimony to the enduring vision of Papa Obafemi Awolowo as well as the unwavering dedication of the family and staff.
“The Tribune is an exemplar of bold and committed journalism. You have in 75 years made an indelible impression with your news reporting and shaped public discourse, provided accurate information and remained an inspiration to your numerous readers.
“We are grateful for your contribution to our nation’s development. As you celebrate this landmark achievement, we wish you continued success and many more years of excellence in journalism.”
President Kotco Group and president of Cibo-Cibo-Cibo (CiCiCi) of Remoland, Dr Kola Oyefeso, said: “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, 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 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.”
This is truly an achievement to be proud of –J.B. Kolawole
The Managing Partner, HLB Z.0. Ososanya and Co (Chartered Accountants), J.B. Kolawole, said: “This is truly an achievement to be proud of, and we want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the incredible impact the company has had over the years.
“For three-quarters of a century, the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc has played critical role in shaping public discourse, a promoting democracy and delivering news that informs, educates and empowers communities.
“Your leadership has ensured the company’s enduring success and relevance in an increasingly dynamic and competitive media landscape.
“It is no small feat to navigate the challenges of the media industry while maintaining a commitment to journalistic integrity and innovation.
“Under your (Dr Awolowo Dosumu’s) stewardship, the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc has not only remained a trusted name in media but has also adapted to changing times, embracing new technologies and platforms to stay connected with your audience.
“As you commemorate this significant anniversary, please accept our best wishes for continued success and growth.
“We are confident that the legacy of the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc will continue to thrive in the years to come, building on the foundation of excellence and vision established.”
For 75 years, Tribune has exhibited unrelenting passion for storytelling, unbiased reporting –Nigerian Guild of Editors
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), in a statement signed by its president, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, said: “Founded in 1949 by late Chief Obafemi Awolowo (SAN), a leading nationalist and politician, this remarkable milestone is a shining testament to the newspaper’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality journalism, fostering informed discourse, and serving as a beacon of truth in our community.
“For 75 years, the Nigerian Tribune has consistently exhibited an unrelenting passion for storytelling, providing readers with timely, accurate, objective and unbiased reporting.
“No doubt, your unwavering efforts have earned the trust and loyalty of generations of readers and audiences – making you an indispensable and reliable institution in our country.
“As a respected platform in the media landscape, the Nigerian Tribune has played a pivotal and strategic role in moulding public opinion, holding leaders to account and amplifying marginalised voices.
“Your contributions to the fabric of our democratic values are invaluable, and your impact extends far beyond the pages of your newspaper.
“It is on record, the significant role the Nigerian Tribune newspaper played in the struggle for Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule.
“It served as a voice for nationalist leaders, including Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Anthony Enahoro and others – spreading their messages of independence and self-determination, and helped in mobilising public support for the nationalist movement; exposed colonial exploitation and corruption, fueled public discontent; advocated for constitutional reforms and greater Nigerian representation in government.
“We acknowledge the hard work, resilience, and passion of the founding father of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, as the Editor of the paper at that time.
“We salute your team, including editors who meticulously craft each edition day after day; reporters who tirelessly seek truth and accuracy; columnists who provide insightful commentary and energetic support staff who work behind the scenes
“Your dedication to journalistic excellence has earned numerous praises and we recognise the importance of your achievements.
“As you celebrate this remarkable achievement, we reflect on the significance of the Nigerian Tribune in our nation: a trusted source of information; platform for diverse perspectives; champion of social justice and beacon of hope in challenging times
“The NGE, the professional body of editors and media executives, wishes you many more years of journalistic excellence.
“May Nigerian Tribune continue to thrive, inspire and inform our country, Nigeria.”
Tribune transformed from an eight-page tabloid into a behemoth –NPAN
The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) in a statement on Friday signed by its Executive Secretary, Feyi Smith, said: “Tomorrow (today), November 16, 2024, the Tribune titles will turn 75 years, having hit the newsstand on November 16, 1949.
“From an eight-page tabloid, the paper has blossomed into a behemoth, bringing along with a rich history in doggedness, courage, and resilience. This ‘can-do’ spirit permeates its chequered existerice. It has sailed doggedly along and weathered all storms.
“From the colonial, through the post-colonial, military and the democratic dispensations, the Tribune, in spite of the myriad of political and socioeconomic upheavals; has remained very consistent and faithful to the ideals of its visionary founder, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the first Premier of the defunct Western Region.
“It has not only stayed the course; it has remained focused in the pursuit of the overall public good rather than serving narrow interests.
“Since its debut, it has been relentless in informing, educating and entertaining the public. In line with the watchdog role of the press, it has held successive governments to account, courageously confronting poor governance and oppression not minding whose horse Is gored.
“As the paper turns 75, and amid the hostile socio-economic climate that assails the newspaper industry and the economy, we commend the ideals of its legendary founder and the unwavering disposition of the succeeding team that has kept the fire burning. We also applaud the current management and staff of the organisation for keeping the flag flying.
“On behalf of the Executive Council of our esteemed association and its members, we salute you at 75 and wish you many more years of success in future.”
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