Adebayo Adenrele
President Bola Tinubu has felicitated the Nigerian Tribune Newspaper’s Board, Management, and staff on its 75th anniversary.
This was contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The statement continues, “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”.