Federal Government, Governors, Nobel Laureate Soyinka, and Media Giants Honour Iconic
At a grand celebration hosted at the Eko Hotel and Suites Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria’s political and media elite paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary founder of Vanguard Newspapers, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu—popularly known as Uncle Sam—on the occasion of his 90th birthday. The ceremony drew dignitaries such as President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, former governors James Ibori, Donald Duke, Aremo Segun Osoba, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, and other iconic figures in the media landscape.
FG Hails Sam Amuka-Pemu as Guardian of Democracy
Representing President Tinubu and the Federal Government, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described Amuka-Pemu’s legacy as eternal. According to him, Uncle Sam’s name is embedded in Nigeria’s conscience and symbolizes unwavering commitment to truth and national unity.
“We are gathered to honour a true titan—a man who stood as the moral compass of Nigeria during turbulent times. Uncle Sam’s voice has guided Nigeria’s democracy from dictatorship to liberation,” said the Minister.
Minister Idris continued by portraying Amuka-Pemu as a walking monument of Nigerian journalism whose influence spans major publications like Daily Times, Sunday Punch, The Punch, and Vanguard. He emphasized that Uncle Sam co-founded The Punch in 1971 with the late Olu Aboderin and founded Vanguard in 1983, both established during politically sensitive times.
“He is more than a journalist—he’s a custodian of Nigeria’s democratic journey and an unwavering advocate of press freedom,” Idris added.
The Minister concluded by celebrating Uncle Sam as the oldest active journalist in Nigeria, urging current and future journalists to uphold his legacy of fearless and principled reporting.
Delta State Governor Oborevwori Calls Him a National Treasure
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Monday Onyeme, echoed similar sentiments, declaring Amuka-Pemu a symbol of national excellence and integrity. According to Oborevwori:
“Your contributions as founder of Vanguard and co-founder of The Punch have shaped Nigerian journalism. Through your Sad Sam column, you brought courage and wit that influenced millions.”
He hailed Uncle Sam’s adherence to ethical journalism, saying his work has deeply influenced Nigeria’s civic consciousness.
Osun Governor Adeleke Prays for Longevity
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, visibly delighted at the event, led celebratory Yoruba praise songs and offered heartfelt prayers for Uncle Sam’s continued life and health.
“We celebrated together last year. And today, we celebrate again at 90. By God’s grace, we shall continue to celebrate you at 91, 92, even 100,” Adeleke said.
Osoba: “Uncle Sam Is Complex but Extraordinary”
Chairman of the event’s organizing committee and former Ogun State governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, described the celebrant as a “complex and difficult” individual but deeply principled. Recalling their long friendship and professional journey, Osoba shared anecdotes of trying to convince Amuka-Pemu to accept the birthday celebration.
“We argued fiercely, but he finally agreed—on the condition that the event be informal and filled with music. That’s Uncle Sam—calm outside but intensely strong-willed,” Osoba revealed.
He also praised Amuka’s courage in the military era, highlighting his satirical writing that often criticized military excesses without fear.
“He once described the military as the most privileged class in Nigeria—getting everything free, including the company of ‘attack trade’ girls. Yet, he was never arrested. That’s the fearless Sad Sam we all knew,” Osoba recalled.
Soyinka: “He’s the Master of Ambush”
Professor Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, described Uncle Sam as deceptively calm but incredibly cunning in journalistic tactics.
“Sam is the real master of ambush—soft on the surface but relentless in his storytelling. I can only toast to his health and thank him for the brilliance he brought to Nigerian journalism,” Soyinka said.
Reflecting on their early days in media, Soyinka recalled a vibrant group of journalists like Peter Pan and Sad Sam, who shaped Nigeria’s intellectual and democratic space.
Aigbogun: “I Never Saw That Complex Side”
Frank Aigbogun, a former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, gave a touching account of his first encounter with Uncle Sam in 1984. He recalled how he was asked a single interview question about a book he was reading.
“After that, he simply said, ‘If what I heard about you is true, we want you here.’ I started in August, and worked with him for 14 years. I never encountered the complex side people speak of,” Aigbogun said.
He concluded by lauding Uncle Sam as perhaps the finest journalist still active in Nigeria.
A Lesson in Leadership and Generosity – Aigbogun’s Recollection
Frank Aigbogun, former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, shared a deeply personal story about Uncle Sam’s unmatched generosity and leadership. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his early career, he recalled how Amuka-Pemu sent him to the UK to cover the elections of Margaret Thatcher—his very first international assignment.
“It was my first time visiting the United Kingdom,” Aigbogun said. “Uncle Sam handed me the key to his personal apartment.”
Soon after, Aigbogun found himself thrust into the editor’s chair at a very young age. He said Uncle Sam showed unwavering belief in his capabilities.
“Every day, he would tell me, ‘Frank, have you ever seen a day when newspapers don’t have front page stories?’ I replied, ‘No.’ Then he told me, ‘The best editor is the one who knows what not to publish.’ That line echoes in my head to this day.”
According to Aigbogun, this philosophy shaped his entire career. Uncle Sam often emphasized that while many people can publish stories, the real strength lies in deciding what not to run with—an editorial discipline only the best possess.
Amuka-Pemu’s Humility and Originality Stand Out – Adetiba
Veteran journalist and pioneer editor of Vanguard, Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba, emphasized that humility and uniqueness define Uncle Sam’s character.
“I’ve known Uncle Sam for nearly five decades. Generosity is one of his most remarkable traits. Back in the Punch days, if you complimented his shirt, he would literally take it off and give it to you,” Adetiba said.
He added that his admiration goes beyond professional respect.
“He’s more than a publisher to me—he’s a role model. I have tried to shape my professional journey around the values I see in him.”
“A Living Proof of Divine Justice” – Olu of Warri
In a heartfelt tribute, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, described Amuka-Pemu as a divine testament to God’s justice and truth.
“To hear you survived the military regime despite your wit and boldness is no surprise,” he began. “Today, on June 12—Democracy Day—also your birthday, it is symbolic.”
The monarch pondered what Uncle Sam might have written on his birthday in 1993 during the peak of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
“I imagine Sad Sam would have found the perfect words to describe how he felt. I wonder if you did write something back then—I’d love to read it.”
He marveled at the poetic justice in how life unfolded.
“Now in 2025, on your birthday, the President of Nigeria bestows on you a great national honour. You are a man worth celebrating. I believe this proves that when you stand for truth and liberty, divine justice follows.”
The Olu of Warri promised to send Uncle Sam a symbolic feather to crown his achievements.
“After Tonight, I Can Die Fulfilled” – Uncle Sam Responds
Emotion filled the air as Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu gave a moving response to the tributes in his honour.
“I thought tonight would be all about dancing and music,” he said, “but standing here now, I feel overwhelmed with pride and gratitude.”
He extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making the event a success, singling out his dear friend and brother, Aremo Segun Osoba.
“When I turned 80, I was in China. I wanted to visit France this year, but instead, I was brought back to Africa—and I’m thankful.”
He appreciated Osoba’s tireless efforts in bringing together friends and colleagues.
“Osoba went all out to pull this gathering for me. For once, we’ve all come together.”
Amuka-Pemu extended his gratitude to the Olu of Warri, his family, and everyone who came to honour him.
“After tonight, with these tributes, I feel like I’ve lived well. Thank you all.”
Roll Call of Attendees
A powerful lineup of dignitaries, government officials, media moguls, and close associates graced the celebration:
- Alhaji Mohammed Idris – Minister of Information and National Orientation
- Governor Ademola Adeleke – Osun State
- Governor Sheriff Oborevwori – Delta State (represented by Sir Monday Onyeme)
- Governor Umo Eno – Akwa Ibom (represented by Mr Aniekam Umanah)
- Donald Duke – Former Cross River State Governor
- Aremo Olusegun Osoba – Former Ogun State Governor
- Chief James Ibori – Former Delta State Governor
- Mr Peter Obi – 2023 Presidential Candidate
- Babatunde Fashola – Former Lagos State Governor
- Prof. Wole Soyinka – Nobel Laureate
- Ogiame Atuwatse III – The Olu of Warri
- Chief Bode George – Former PDP Deputy National Chairman
- Mr Sunday Dare – Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Public Communication
- Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa – NIDCOM Chairperson
- Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd) – Former Foreign Affairs Minister
- Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi – Former Foreign Affairs Minister
- Chief Mrs Nike Akande – Former Minister of Trade
- Senator Bode Olajumoke
- Senator Ben Obi
- Lady Maiden Ibru – Publisher, The Guardian
- Nduka Obaigbena – Publisher, ThisDay Newspapers
- Mr Jim Ovia – Chairman, Zenith Bank
- Mr Ray Ekpu – Veteran Journalist
- Senator Ben Bruce
- Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi – Former MD, Daily Times
- Chief Shola Ogunsola – Chairman, Punch Newspapers
- Mr Bayo Onanuga – Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy
- Mallam Kabiru Yusuf – Chairman, Daily Trust
- Messrs Muyiwa Adetiba, Frank Aigbogun, Gbenga Adefaye – Former Vanguard Editors
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