President Bola Tinubu has congratulated veteran journalist and former Managing Director of The Guardian, Oyinlade “Ladbone” Bonuola, on his 80th birthday, recognising his contributions to Nigerian journalism and newspaper management.
In a congratulatory message issued on Sunday, Tinubu praised Bonuola’s editorial experience, professional integrity and commitment to truth, describing his decades in the media industry as an enduring contribution to the country’s journalism landscape.
The President said Bonuola’s career reflected the press’s role in informing citizens, promoting accountability and supporting democratic governance. He also highlighted the importance of accuracy, fairness and integrity in journalism, particularly in holding public institutions accountable.
Bonuola began his journalism career in February 1971 at the Daily Times, where he worked as a trainee sub-editor. He advanced through the newspaper’s ranks before joining The Guardian in 1982 as one of its pioneer editors.
He later became Managing Director of The Guardian, serving in the position until 1999. After leaving the organisation, Bonuola co-founded the now-defunct Comet newspaper, where he also served as Managing Director. He subsequently headed Nigerian Compass in the same capacity.
Tinubu recalled Bonuola’s influence on journalists over the course of his career, including through his widely read Caught Out column during his years at the Daily Times.
The President described the veteran journalist’s contributions as lasting and said his emphasis on accuracy, fairness, integrity and public accountability remained relevant to the media’s responsibilities in a democracy.
In his birthday message, Tinubu extended his wishes for Bonuola’s continued good health, peace and fulfilment. He also expressed hope that the veteran journalist would continue contributing to the country.
Bonuola’s career has spanned newsroom editing, newspaper leadership and the development of media organisations across different periods of Nigeria’s press history. His 80th birthday provides an occasion to reflect on the role experienced editors have played in shaping newsroom standards and mentoring successive generations of journalists.
Deborah Adeyefa
