The board of directors of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles, has described Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a member of the board who died on Friday, as a man of remarkable dedication.
The board said this in a statement signed by its chairman, Ambassador Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, while announcing the transition of the elder statesman.
The statement reads:
“It is with a heavy heart that the Chairman and Board of African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles, announce the transition to glory of one of our esteemed Directors, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
“Chief Adebanjo’s contributions to the growth and survival of ANN Plc were monumental. As a member of our Board of Directors, his insights, always rich with historical context, were instrumental in guiding the company toward continued prosperity. His unwavering commitment to the Tribune’s legacy was deeply rooted in his loyalty to its founders, Papa Obafemi Awolowo and his Jewel of Inestimable Value, Mama, Yeye Oodua Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo.
“A man of remarkable dedication, Chief Adebanjo never treated any Board meeting with levity. Even in his advanced years, he was always prompt and consistent, undeterred by long journeys, considering absence from meetings a personal failing. His resoluteness, passion, and absolute concern for issues affecting ANN Plc were both admirable and infectious.
“To him, The Tribune was more than a newspaper—it was a sacred legacy. He often declared: ‘I want to be able to give my Leader, when I see him, a good report about our newspaper, the Nigerian Tribune.’
“His love for the Tribune was unconditional and absolute. He would accept nothing less than excellence in preserving the ideals and values upon which the paper was founded.
“The board of directors will deeply miss his insightful admonitions, his principled guidance, and his tireless drive for a better and more prosperous ANN Plc. Our editors, columnists, and staff—whom he addressed with warmth and respect—will miss his encouraging calls and thoughtful feedback on their work.
“Beyond our company, Nigeria has lost a fearless patriot who spent his life advocating for justice, democracy, and freedom.
“Rest well, our indefatigable Director. Your life’s work and legacy shall endure.”
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