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Nigeria’s Leaders Celebrate ‘Uncle Sam’ At 90
President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari have extended felicitations to veteran journalist and publisher of Vanguard newspaper, Sam Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as ‘Uncle Sam,’ as he marks his 90th birthday on Friday, June 13, 2025.
Both leaders lauded his immense contributions to Nigerian journalism and nation-building.
In a statement issued on Friday, Tinubu hailed Amuka-Pemu as an “iconic journalist” and acknowledged his illustrious career trajectory.
“Today, I celebrate Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, iconic journalist and publisher of Vanguard newspaper, on his 90th birthday,” Tinubu stated.
He recounted Amuka-Pemu’s journey, which began at the Daily Times, followed by his co-founding of The Punch with the late Chief Olu Aboderin, before establishing Vanguard newspaper in 1984.
Tinubu commended Amuka-Pemu’s enduring legacy, noting that Vanguard remains influential 41 years after its founding, a testament to his “credit and managerial acumen” amidst challenges in the media industry.
He further described ‘Uncle Sam’ as “a shining example of dedication, resilience and integrity within the media industry,” asserting that he is not merely a leader but a “doyen” whose influence extends beyond journalism to his role as a respected elder statesman in Delta State and the South-South geopolitical zone.
The President also highlighted a recent recognition of the nonagenarian’s service.
“On the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day, I conferred on him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in profound recognition of his significant contributions to the country and his exemplary leadership in the field of journalism,” Tinubu said.
He urged younger journalists to emulate the revered publisher, wishing ‘Uncle Sam’ “continued God’s grace and more years of impact,” and expressing the nation’s profound gratitude for his “invaluable contributions to journalism and his enduring legacy.”
Buhari also joined in celebrating Amuka-Pemu, with a message issued on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Signed by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari lauded the “guru journalist, columnist and publisher,” emphasising that his years in the media would be “written in gold in the annals of the nation’s history.”
Recalling his relationship with the celebrant, the former president remarked, “I owe a deep debt to him.”
Buhari fondly remembered ‘Uncle Sam’s’ column: “They call him ‘Sad Sam,’ from the name of his column, but the distinctive style of his communication was spreading light. Not only did one get information from reading him but also vision, which is very valuable.”
Buhari further commended Amuka-Pemu’s impactful journalism, stating, “Uncle Sam used his pen as a broom for cleaning up the rot in society. Few would match his crusading journalism.”
He noted that Vanguard continues to be at the forefront of national service by “continuing to awaken the government and society.”
The former president concluded his message by wishing ‘Uncle Sam’ “many more years in good health and happiness, and continued service to his profession and the nation.”
Amuka-Pemu’s 90th birthday marks a significant milestone for a man widely celebrated for his pioneering spirit, unwavering commitment to journalistic ethics, and profound influence on Nigeria’s media landscape.
Punchng.com
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FULL LIST: Major Shake Up In Nigeria Police As IGP Deploys Commissioners Of Police
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has approved the deployment of Commissioners of Police to State Commands and strategic formations across the country.
The deployment follows the approval of his recommendations by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
According to a statement on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the deployment is aimed at strengthening operational effectiveness, enhancing leadership across Commands and formations, and consolidating the ongoing reform and repositioning of the Nigeria Police Force.

Naija News reports that the Inspector-General of Police charged the affected senior officers to bring their wealth of experience to bear in their new assignments by strengthening intelligence-led policing, enhancing operational effectiveness, promoting professionalism, and deepening community engagement in line with the vision of the Force.
He also urged them to remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property while upholding the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and service delivery.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to strategic personnel deployments as a key component of its ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening internal capacity, and delivering more effective policing services to all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
News
Shettima Steps Aside from Official Duties After Three Years
Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Thursday commenced a two-week leave — his first since assuming office over three years ago.
According to a statement issued by the media aide to the vice-president, Stanley Nkwocha, during the leave, the vice-president will devote time to study, reflect and do intellectual renewal as part of efforts to strengthen his capacity for continued service to the nation.
The leave offers Shettima an opportunity to review the administration’s ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Federal Government intensifies the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the vice-president, the release stated, has remained actively engaged in the coordination and supervision of several strategic government initiatives, particularly in economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation.
He has consistently chaired the monthly National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, which brings together the governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other relevant public officials to deliberate on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.
Beyond his responsibilities within the country, Shettima has represented President Bola Tinubu at major international and regional engagements, advancing Nigeria’s position on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development. ExecutiveBranch
He remains deeply committed to the ideals of loyalty, duty and service that have defined his role in the administration, as well as to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.
The vice-president will return to office at the end of the two-week leave period and resume his official responsibilities with renewed energy and dedication to the service of the nation.
News
Friday, August 7, Declared Public Holiday, Government Announces Reason
Rwanda has declared Friday, August 7, 2026, a public holiday to mark Umuganura Day, a national harvest festival with roots stretching back to pre-colonial times.
Legit.ng reports that the announcement came from the Ministry of Public Service and Labour on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, and applies to workers across all sectors, both public and private.
The ministry said in its official statement:
“The Ministry of Public Service and Labour informs all employers and employees in both public and private sectors that Friday, August 7, 2026, will be a public holiday in celebration of Umuganura Day.”
What is Umuganura Day?
Umuganura is one of Rwanda’s most significant cultural observances. The festival gives thanks to God and ancestors for the bounty of the land and marks the collective effort of communities in cultivating it. Despite being called a harvest festival, it is observed before the harvest begins, a tradition rooted in the practice of elders tasting the fruits of the new season before any family member is permitted to do so.
The celebration starts within individual families and then expands into wider community gatherings where traditional foods, crafts, and performances are shared. Rwandan restaurants and cultural centres, both at home and abroad, typically mark the occasion with special offerings tied to the country’s culinary heritage.
Agriculture sits at the heart of why the day carries such weight. About 80% of Rwanda’s labour force is engaged in farming activities, which contribute roughly 40% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. Tea and coffee are the country’s most important cash crops, making up around 80% of its agricultural exports.
History of Umuganura festival
Umuganura has survived considerable upheaval. Germany colonised Rwanda in 1899 as part of German East Africa, and Belgium took control in 1916 during World War I. The prolonged period of colonial rule disrupted the festival, and it went uncelebrated for many years. Rwanda gained independence in July 1962, and the country gradually rebuilt its national identity in the decades that followed.
Despite its ancient origins, Umuganura was only formally recognised as a public holiday in 2011. Beyond its cultural significance, the day also serves as an occasion to reflect on the country’s yearly achievements across the sectors that drive national development.
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