Tinubu praises Otitoju at 60, celebrating his courage, integrity and lasting impact on Nigerian journalism

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday paid tribute to veteran journalist Babajide Kolade-Otitoju on his 60th birthday, commending his enduring contributions to Nigerian journalism and his reputation for fearless reporting.

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In a statement marking the milestone, President Tinubu described Otitoju as a distinguished media professional whose career has been defined by integrity, courage and a steadfast commitment to truth.

The President praised Otitoju’s citizen-focused journalism and his willingness to speak truth to power, noting that his work continues to shape public discourse and strengthen democratic accountability.

“Babajide Otitoju stands out as a journalist of great reckoning and distinction. He speaks truth to power without caring whose ox is gored,” Tinubu said.

Otitoju, a native of Ekirin Adde in Kogi State, began his journalism career with the Democrat newspaper in Kaduna in 1991 before joining TheNews Group as a pioneer staff member in 1993.

Reporting from Kano, he earned national attention for his bold coverage of a religiously motivated killing, defying threats in the process.

He later rose through the ranks at TheNEWS Organisation, serving as editor of PMNEWS and subsequently The NEWS magazine, where he further cemented his reputation as a formidable investigative journalist.

Currently, Otitoju serves as Director of News at Television Continental, where he anchors the widely followed current affairs programme “Journalists Hangout,” known for its incisive analysis and robust debate.

President Tinubu highlighted Otitoju’s intellectual depth and versatility, attributing his analytical strength in part to his academic background as a history graduate of the University of Ilorin.

“He brings to the Journalists Hangout programme of TVC rich and informed perspectives and analysis that one can hardly ignore,” the President added.

Describing his career as impactful and exemplary, Tinubu congratulated Otitoju on reaching the milestone age, wishing him continued relevance and service to the nation.

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The tribute underscores Otitoju’s influential role in Nigeria’s media landscape, where his voice remains a powerful force in shaping national conversations.