Former Nigerian Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has urged Nigerians, particularly journalists, to be guided by patriotism and love for the country in the discharge of their responsibilities.

IBB made the call at the launch of Vanguard Chronology: 40 Years of Nigeria’s Leading Tabloid, held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event also featured a reunion of Vanguard alumni.

IBB, who was the special guest of honour and was represented by a Professor of Agricultural and Forestry at the University of Ibadan, Prof Mohammed Yahaya Kuta, said the media had a critical role to play in nation-building, particularly during challenging times.

He said: “As we turn the pages of The Vanguard Chronology, let us not merely revisit the stories of yesterday. Let us instead recommit ourselves to the timeless principles they represent. Let us draw inspiration from Mr Sam Amuka’s steadfastness, his courage, and his unwavering dedication to the truth.

“We must remain steadfast believers in the power of a free, responsible and robust press to build a prosperous Nigeria of our collective aspiration.”
IBB urged media practitioners across the country to emulate Amuka’s exemplary life and the professional ethics associated with the Vanguard family.

Speaking on the book, he said the publication was more than a collection of newspaper stories, describing it as a chronicle of Nigeria’s journey over four transformative decades.

“For forty years, the Vanguard Newspaper has been an unwavering companion to Nigerians, documenting our triumphs, illuminating our challenges, and giving voice to the voiceless.

“The Vanguard has not merely reported on Nigerian history; it has actively shaped it. It has stood as a formidable pillar of robust public discourse, a defender of democratic ideals, and a consistent force for national development.

“This publication is a fitting tribute to that enduring legacy, and I am deeply honoured to be associated with such a major milestone. Indeed, it is for me a profound admiration for the vision, resilience and commitment of the Vanguard Media Alumni Association.”

He commended the association for preserving the history of the newspaper, saying a deeper understanding of the past was essential to charting a successful course for the future.

“It is our sincere hope that this publication will serve as an enduring historical document for generations yet unborn, and a powerful reminder of the critical role journalism plays in the life and progress of our nation,” he added.

Former Ogun State Governor, Segun Osoba, who also spoke at the event, recounted Amuka’s journey in Nigerian journalism, describing him as “a generalissimo of journalism in Nigeria.”
Osoba said Amuka had returned to journalism after an unsuccessful venture into fishing and subsequently founded Vanguard in 1984.

He also recalled an encounter with Amuka during the 2023 election campaign, when he complained about the newspaper’s coverage of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Other dignitaries, including former Chief of Army Staff, Gen Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.); 2027 African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi; founder of ThisDay Newspaper, Nduka Obaigbena; and Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, eulogised Amuka for his contributions to Nigerian journalism.

Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, in his keynote address titled “Fighting Insecurity in Nigeria: The Need for Media Collaboration,” underscored the pivotal role of the media in national security.

Disu said security was not exclusively a law-enforcement responsibility but a collective national concern, urging the police and media to build a genuine strategic partnership that goes beyond the conventional source-reporter relationship.

He also highlighted the dangers of misinformation and disinformation in security reporting, advocating credible journalism, media literacy and prompt official communication.

The IGP called for accountability and transparency in handling cases involving police personnel misconduct, stressing that effective partnership could not thrive where one party expected cooperation while resisting accountability.

Disu further emphasised that public trust remained one of the Force’s most valuable assets and called on media stakeholders to deepen their collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force.

He said a secure Nigeria would ultimately be a shared victory for all.