The Nigerian Tribune holds a unique place in the history of journalism in Nigeria as the oldest surviving privately owned English-language daily newspaper in the country. Founded in November 1949 by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, alongside his wife, Hannah Dideolu Awolowo. From its earliest days, the Tribune was conceived not merely as a news outlet but as a platform for progressive ideas, a voice for the marginalized, and a catalyst for social and political transformation.
At a time when Nigeria was still under colonial rule, the Tribune became a vital instrument for mobilizing public opinion towards independence. During the 1950s and 1960s, the paper was instrumental in galvanizing support for the independence movement and later served as the mouthpiece for the Action Group party, articulating its ideology of democratic socialism and self-determination.
Over the years, the Tribune became a training ground for some of Nigeria’s most respected journalists, including Lateef Jakande, who later became the Governor of Lagos State. Its tradition of investigative reporting and fearless commentary helped to shape public discourse and hold leaders accountable, even in turbulent political times.
Today, the Nigerian Tribune has expanded into a group of titles that includes Saturday Tribune and Sunday Tribune, continuing to reach a wide readership both in print and online. In November 2024, it celebrated its 75th anniversary.
