By ABDULKABIR MUHAMMED

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the veteran journalist and publisher of the Vanguard Newspaper, Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu (fondly called Uncle Sam), on his 90th birthday.

In a Statehouse Press Release issued on Friday morning, President Tinubu described the nonagenarian as an "iconic journalist" and "elder statesman."

"Today, I celebrate Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, iconic journalist and publisher of Vanguard newspaper, on his 90th birthday.

"Fondly called Uncle Sam, Amuka-Pemu started his career at the Daily Times. Then, he co-founded The Punch with the late accountant, Chief Olu Aboderin. After parting ways with Aboderin, he set up the Vanguard newspaper in 1984, which became one of Nigeria's most influential newspapers under his leadership," the statement partly read in part.

"Uncle Sam remains a shining example of dedication, resilience and integrity within the media industry.

"Today, he is not just a leader of the profession; he is a doyen. His leadership, from the altar of journalism, has influenced the media landscape and extended to his role as a respected leader in Delta State and the South-South geopolitical zone, making him an elder statesman," it added.

The President urged budding journalists to emulate Uncle Sam's legendary roles in the field of journalism.

"I urge the younger journalists to emulate this highly respected publisher and leader.

"I wish Uncle Sam continued God's grace and more years of impact. Our country is deeply grateful for his invaluable contributions to journalism and his enduring legacy," he added.