By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated veteran journalist and publisher, Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, on the occasion of his 90th birthday, describing him as a “doyen” of Nigerian journalism whose legacy spans decades of commitment to the profession.
In a personally signed statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President hailed Amuka-Pemu’s enduring impact on Nigeria’s media landscape.
“Today, I celebrate Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, iconic journalist and publisher of Vanguard newspaper, on his 90th birthday. Fondly called Uncle Sam, he began his career at the Daily Times and later co-founded The Punch with the late Chief Olu Aboderin before establishing Vanguard in 1984,” Tinubu said.
He praised Amuka-Pemu for steering Vanguard through four decades of media practice, crediting his “managerial acumen, resilience, and integrity” for the paper’s longevity.
“Today, he is not just a leader of the profession; he is a doyen. His contributions to journalism, as well as his leadership role in Delta State and the South-South region, have earned him the status of elder statesman,” Tinubu stated.
The President also highlighted that in recognition of Amuka-Pemu’s contributions, he was conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) during the Democracy Day celebrations held on Thursday at a joint session of the National Assembly.
“In conferring this honour, our country recognises his significant contributions and his exemplary leadership in journalism,” Tinubu said, urging young journalists to draw inspiration from Amuka-Pemu’s life and career.
“Our country is deeply grateful for his enduring legacy,” he added.
Amuka-Pemu was among 33 Nigerians conferred with national honours as part of the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations.
