Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and leading figures in Nigeria’s media industry have paid glowing tributes to Prince Nduka Obaigbena as he celebrated his 67th birthday and the 40th anniversary of the founding of THISWEEK Magazine, describing him as a visionary whose influence has transformed journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
The governor hailed Obaigbena as one of Africa’s most influential media entrepreneurs, commending his contributions to journalism, media innovation and democratic development over several decades.
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described Obaigbena as an illustrious son of Delta State whose achievements have projected the state positively on both national and international platforms.
He noted that the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Newspapers and the Arise Group has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership by redefining newspaper publishing and television broadcasting while setting high standards of professionalism within the media industry.
According to the governor, Obaigbena’s leadership has strengthened democratic values, expanded public discourse and elevated Nigeria’s voice on the global media stage through the success of THISDAY and ARISE News.
Oborevwori also recalled Obaigbena’s tenure as President of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), describing it as a period marked by strong advocacy for press freedom, media professionalism and industry development.
Congratulating the media entrepreneur, the governor said Obaigbena’s enduring legacy continues to inspire younger generations of journalists and media professionals while bringing pride to Delta State.
He prayed for continued good health, strength and many more years of impactful service to journalism, Nigeria and humanity.
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At a cocktail event held in Lagos to commemorate THISWEEK Magazine’s 40th anniversary, several respected media veterans reflected on Obaigbena’s contributions to journalism and media innovation.
Former Ogun State Governor and veteran journalist Aremo Olusegun Osoba recalled supporting Obaigbena during his early career and expressed satisfaction at witnessing his remarkable success.
Former Liberty Bank Chief Executive Officer and pioneer THISWEEK Business Editor, Chief Lawson Omokhodion, narrated how he left Newswatch to join the newly established THISWEEK because of his confidence in Obaigbena’s vision.
He described the publication as fearless, recalling how journalists were sometimes hidden in hotels after publishing sensitive investigative reports during the military era to ensure their safety.
Omokhodion praised Obaigbena’s determination and editorial courage, saying the magazine consistently published stories others avoided despite frequent harassment by security agencies.
Founding editor Lanre Idowu recalled the launch of THISWEEK at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), describing it as the beginning of a bold vision that eventually gave birth to THISDAY Newspapers.
He said the magazine’s ambition to compete with international publications demonstrated the founders’ determination to build a world-class Nigerian media institution.
Veteran journalist and Newswatch co-founder Ray Ekpu reflected on the intense but healthy rivalry between Newswatch and THISWEEK during the 1980s, noting that the competition significantly improved journalistic standards in Nigeria.
Ekpu also commended Obaigbena’s innovations, including the introduction of the back-page opinion column and modern newspaper design, while urging media organisations to maintain a clear distinction between factual reporting and opinion in the age of social media.
Managing Director of THISDAY, Eniola Bello, said the newspaper inherited the innovative culture established by THISWEEK, highlighting milestones such as full-colour printing, front-page advertising and premium advertising segmentation.
He noted that the organisation has continued evolving by expanding into digital and broadcast platforms to remain at the forefront of journalism.
President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba, described Obaigbena as one of Nigeria’s most influential media leaders whose creativity, mentorship and commitment to excellence have shaped generations of journalists.
According to Anaba, Obaigbena’s impact on modern Nigerian journalism remains unmatched, adding that his vision and legacy will continue to inspire media professionals for years to come.
