By Chesa Chesa
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 the country’s democratic development.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 25, 2026, Tinubu described Bonuola as one of Nigeria’s most respected journalists whose professionalism, editorial courage and commitment to truth had left an enduring mark on the media industry.
The President said Bonuola’s career reflected a deep commitment to responsible journalism, accuracy, fairness, integrity and public accountability.
Bonuola began his journalism career at the Daily Times in February 1971 as a trainee sub-editor and rose through the ranks before joining The Guardian in 1982 as its pioneer editor.
He later served as the newspaper’s managing director until 1999 before co-founding the defunct Comet newspaper, where he also served as managing director. He subsequently headed Nigerian Compass as managing director.
Tinubu recalled Bonuola’s weekly column, Caught Out, in the Daily Times, describing it as a must-read for practising journalists, students and members of the public.
The President also commended the veteran journalist’s leadership and mentorship, noting that his influence extended beyond the newsrooms he led.
He said Bonuola’s work had helped shape media reporting, promote responsible journalism and strengthen the press as a pillar of democracy and a custodian of factual records.
“As one of the 20th century’s exceptional editors, your contributions to Nigerian journalism remain indelible,” Tinubu said.
The President added that journalism must serve the public interest, hold leaders accountable and provide citizens with the information needed to make informed decisions.
He said Bonuola’s life and career demonstrated that the value of journalism went beyond reporting events to shaping ideas, nurturing informed citizens and preserving the truth for future generations.
Tinubu, on behalf of his family, the Federal Government and the Nigerian people, wished the veteran journalist good health, peace, fulfilment and many more years of service to the country.
He expressed hope that Bonuola’s legacy of professionalism, mentorship and service would continue to inspire generations of journalists and media practitioners.
