​Prominent Nigerian leaders, political figures, and media executives gathered at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, for the launch of a commemorative book celebrating the 40th anniversary of Vanguard Newspapers alongside the inaugural Vanguard Alumni Reunion.
​Organized by the Vanguard Media Alumni Association, the dual event marked four decades of the publication’s impact on Nigerian journalism, public discourse, and national development. The centerpiece of the gathering was the public presentation of The Vanguard Chronology: 40 Years of Nigeria’s Leading Tabloid, a landmark historical account documenting the major national events, investigative milestones, and newsroom culture that defined the paper over the past 40 years.
​The event brought together an array of high-profile dignitaries across the political, media, and security sectors. Top of the list guests include; Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State and veteran media titan, presided over the occasion as Event Chairman.
General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), former Military Head of State, served as the Special Guest of Honour. Olatunji Disu, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), delivered the keynote address titled “Fighting Insecurity in Nigeria: The Need for Media Collaboration.”
Dr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Editor of Punch Newspapers, served as the official book reviewer. Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Publisher of ThisDay and Arise Media, alongside former Minister of External Affairs General Ike Nwachukwu (retd.), were among the distinguished guests present.
​The occasion also paid tribute to Vanguard’s founder and publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, affectionately known in the industry as “Uncle Sam”—who recently celebrated his 91st birthday on June 13.
​Speaking on behalf of the organizers, Pastor Eyobong Ita, Chairman of the Vanguard Media Alumni Association, described the book as both a historical record and a tribute to generations of media professionals. “This publication celebrates the extraordinary legacy of our Founder and Publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka, whose influence on the Nigerian media landscape remains profound and enduring,” Ita stated.
​Highlighting the reunion aspect of the event, Sam Eferaro, Co-chairman of the Planning Committee, noted that Vanguard provided a strong foundation that shaped many careers. “Vanguard has a unique work culture that binds former and current employees together. This reunion gives colleagues who have not seen one another in years a chance to reconnect while celebrating an institution that gave most of us direction in life,” Eferaro added.
​Pioneer members of the media house, including pioneer editor Muyiwa Adetiba and pioneer general manager Chief Ralph Ibiwoye, joined former and current staff from around the globe to celebrate four decades of institutional excellence.
