Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Thursday congratulated doyen of Nigeria media and Publisher of Vanguard Media Limited, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu, on his 84th birthday.

In a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists in Asaba, Okowa described Amuka-Pemu as an amiable and well respected media practitioner of great accomplishments.

According to the Governor, “The celebrants impeccable credentials as a columnist, editor, and publisher has spanned nearly five decades making him the oldest practicing media professional in Nigeria today, adding that Amuka-Pemu’s contributions to the Nigerian press had been demonstrated, not only in the growth of his newspaper, but also the ethical positions he had consistently taken on issues of corruption, good governance and the rule of law.”

The statement further said that “the advent of Vanguard newspaper, in 1984, shaped the course of journalism in Nigeria as it accentuated racy news, balanced reporting, and incisive commentary: a tradition that has continued, and thus, become a significant force in the socio-political evolution of the country.”

Okowa paid glowing tributes to Amuka-Pemu for remaining faithful to the journalism profession where he has remained a role model to many as a working journalist, an employer and entrepreneur and urged him not to relent in his efforts of mentoring the younger generation on the fine art of journalism and newspaper management.

The Governor described the newspaper proprietor as an epitome of hard work, dedication and humility, recalling how the newspaper won the maiden edition of 2018 Nigerian Online Merit Awards (NiOMA), as the best newspaper website because of the solid foundation Uncle Sam laid for the newspaper which has ensured its survival and excellence till today.

Dr Okowa wished the Vanguard Publisher many more years of good health and continuous service to our country Nigeria adding that his life remains an inspiration to many Nigerians in all walks of life.