Tinubu acknowledged Bonuola’s longstanding contributions to journalism, professional excellence and commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s media industry
By Mmesoma Onwuka
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated veteran journalist, distinguished editor and former Managing Director of The Guardian Newspaper, Oyinlade “Ladbone” Bonuola, on his 80th birthday.
In his tribute, Tinubu acknowledged Bonuola’s longstanding contributions to journalism, professional excellence and commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s media industry.
Widely respected by colleagues and mentees as an exceptional journalist, Bonuola began his career at the Daily Times in February 1971 as a trainee sub editor. He rose through the ranks before joining The Guardian in 1982 as its pioneer editor, later serving as Managing Director until 1999.
He subsequently co-founded the now defunct Comet newspaper, where he also served as Managing Director, and later held the same position at Nigerian Compass.
Tinubu described Bonuola as one of Nigeria’s most respected journalism figures, whose editorial courage, integrity, professionalism and dedication to truth have left a lasting mark on the country’s media landscape.
The President noted that Bonuola’s contributions over several decades had helped shape journalistic standards, promote responsible reporting and reinforce the media’s role as a pillar of democracy and a reliable record of events.
He further highlighted the importance of the veteran journalist’s commitment to accuracy, fairness, integrity and public accountability, describing these principles as essential to the media’s responsibility to inform citizens, hold public institutions accountable and strengthen democratic governance.
Tinubu also recalled Bonuola’s weekly column, Caught Out, published during his time at the Daily Times, noting that it was widely read by practising journalists, students and members of the public.