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President Bola Tinubu has congratulated veteran journalist and former Managing Director of The Guardian newspaper, Oyinlade “Ladbone” Bonuola, on his 80th birthday, praising his contributions to Nigerian journalism and democracy.
Tinubu described Bonuola as one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in journalism, whose professionalism, editorial courage, integrity and commitment to truth have left a lasting mark on the country’s media industry.
The President conveyed his congratulations in a tribute issued on Sunday, October 25, 2026, to mark the journalist’s milestone birthday.
He said Bonuola’s decades of service had helped shape media reporting, promote responsible journalism and strengthen the press as a vital pillar of democracy.
According to the President, the veteran journalist’s commitment to accuracy, fairness and public accountability remains an important standard for media practitioners.
Tinubu recalled that Bonuola began his journalism career at the Daily Times in February 1971 as a trainee sub-editor and gradually rose through the ranks.
He joined The Guardian in 1982 as its pioneer editor and later became the newspaper’s managing director, a position he held until 1999.
After leaving The Guardian, Bonuola co-founded the defunct Comet newspaper, where he also served as managing director. He subsequently served as managing director of Nigerian Compass.
The President also highlighted Bonuola’s influence through his weekly column, Caught Out, published during his time at the Daily Times.
Tinubu described the column as a must-read for practising journalists, students and members of the public, noting the veteran journalist’s contribution to professional development and public discourse.
He further praised Bonuola’s leadership at The Guardian and The Comet, saying his career demonstrated a deep understanding of the media’s role in building an informed, just and progressive society.
The President said Bonuola’s influence extended beyond the newsrooms he led, particularly through his mentorship of younger journalists and his commitment to professional standards.
He added that journalism must serve the public interest, hold leaders accountable and provide citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions.
Tinubu said Bonuola’s legacy went beyond reporting events to include shaping ideas, nurturing informed citizens and preserving the truth for future generations.
“Your life and career remind us that journalism’s enduring value lies not merely in reporting events but in shaping ideas, nurturing informed citizens, and preserving the truth for future generations,” the President said.
On behalf of his family, the Federal Government and Nigerians, Tinubu wished Bonuola good health, peace, fulfilment and many more years of service to the country.
He also expressed the hope that the veteran journalist’s legacy of professionalism, mentorship and service would continue to inspire generations of journalists and media practitioners.
English (US) ·