Some of Nigeria’s most prominent leaders and respected voices in media, politics, and business gathered in Lagos to celebrate a towering figure in Nigerian journalism—Sam Amuka—popularly known as Uncle Sam, who turned 90.
The special event brought together a large number of dignitaries who came to honour Amuka’s long and influential career in the media.
Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, former Ogun State Governor and media veteran, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, were among those present. The gathering also included the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, who added royal presence to the event.
Other notable attendees included the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Delta State Deputy Governor, John Onyeme; Chairman of ThisDay/ARISE Media Group, Nduka Obaigbena; Senators Ben Obi and Bode Olajumoke; and renowned banker, Chief Jim Ovia. Businesswoman and former Minister, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, respected media icons Ray Ekpo and Dame Comfort Obi, as well as Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, were also part of the celebration.
In written tributes, President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari expressed admiration for Amuka’s lasting impact on Nigerian journalism.
President Tinubu described him as “a shining example of dedication, resilience and integrity within the media industry,” and praised his leadership, noting that Amuka had made his mark not just in journalism but also in community and national development.
Buhari, in a statement by his aide Garba Shehu, wrote that Amuka’s work in journalism was “a crusade,” and his pen “always spread light.” He noted Amuka’s courage and consistency, saying his contributions would be remembered as golden chapters in Nigeria’s media history.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also gave praise to the Vanguard publisher. He noted Amuka as the “oldest practicing media professional in Nigeria today” and acknowledged his role in creating employment and training countless journalists over the years.
