By Charles Pemu 
Abuja – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday, Thursday, June 12, delivered a glowing tribute to Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, the distinguished publisher of Vanguard Media, ahead of his 90th birthday today. Speaking from the nation’s capital, President Tinubu lauded Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu as an iconic journalist, a doyen of the profession, and a revered elder statesman whose contributions have profoundly shaped Nigeria’s media landscape.
“Today, I celebrate Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, iconic journalist and publisher of Vanguard newspaper, on his 90th birthday,” President Tinubu began, setting a tone of profound admiration. He recounted Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu’s illustrious career, which commenced at the Daily Times before he co-founded The Punch. “After parting ways with Aboderin, he set up the Vanguard newspaper in 1984, which became one of Nigeria’s most influential newspapers under his leadership,” the President highlighted, acknowledging Vanguard’s remarkable 41-year journey.
President Tinubu praised “Uncle Sam” for his unwavering dedication, resilience, and integrity, qualities that he said made Amuka-Pemu a shining example within the media industry. “It is to his credit and managerial acumen that Vanguard is alive today, 41 years after its founding, despite the crisis in the media industry,” Tinubu stated.
The President further recognized Sam Amuka-Pemu’s broader influence, noting that his leadership had transcended journalism to make him a respected figure in Delta State and the entire South-South geopolitical zone. As a testament to his monumental impact, President Tinubu revealed that he had personally conferred the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) on Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu just yesterday, on Democracy Day, in profound recognition of his significant contributions to the country.
Concluding his heartfelt tribute, President Tinubu urged younger journalists across the nation to “emulate this highly respected publisher and leader.” He extended his best wishes for “continued God’s grace and more years of impact,” affirming that “Our country is deeply grateful for his invaluable contributions to journalism and his enduring legacy.”