​Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, paid tribute to veteran publisher Sam Amuka, affectionately known as “Uncle Sam,” commending his unwavering commitment to press freedom and democratic principles.
​The remark was made during the official presentation of The Vanguard Chronology: 40 Years of Nigeria’s Leading Tabloid, hosted during the Vanguard 40th Anniversary Book Launch and Reunion at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
​Speaking before a gathering of political leaders, diplomats, and media pioneers, Obi highlighted the essential role of independent journalism in strengthening nation-building efforts across Nigeria.
​”Uncle Sam is a man we all respect for his doggedness, and a father in this industry,” Obi remarked. “I honor the Vanguard family for how they have consistently been part of building a better society. So, congrats to the Vanguard family, congrats to Uncle Sam and our dear daddy for all he’s been doing over the years.”
​Event chairman and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, echoed Obi’s sentiment, praising Amuka’s record of media entrepreneurship, including his pioneering work with Happy Home magazine, co-founding The Punch, and establishing Vanguard in 1984, while highlighting his lifelong defense of editorial independence.
Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu (known as “Uncle Sam”) is a veteran Nigerian journalist, media entrepreneur, and publisher of Vanguard newspapers. Regarded as the oldest practicing media professional in Nigeria, he has spent over six decades shaping the country’s press landscape.
He began his journalism career at Daily Times and Sunday Express, gaining widespread fame for his satirical and critical column signed under the pen name “Sad Sam.”
In 1971, he co-founded The Punch alongside his associate, the late Chief Olu Aboderin, serving as the founding editor of Sunday Punch. After departing The Punch, he launched Vanguard newspaper in 1984, building it into one of Nigeria’s longest-running national daily publications.
He serves as a Life Patron of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and was awarded the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
