Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the legacy of Edo’s founding fathers through the transformation of the Nigerian Observer Newspapers.
Speaking on Tuesday at the newspaper’s commissioning in Benin City, Obaseki emphasized that the revitalization reflects his administration’s resolve to strengthen Edo’s historical institutions.
“The remodeling of the Nigerian Observer Newspapers is the determination of my administration to build on the legacy of the founding fathers,” Obaseki stated.
He noted the newspaper’s significance as a professional starting point for many renowned media figures in Nigeria, who continue to impact the country’s media landscape.
Obaseki highlighted his administration’s investment in advanced printing facilities, aiming to establish the Nigerian Observer as a leading media hub.
“This administration has been able to turn the fortune of the establishment around, and everything has been put in place to keep the establishment afloat,” he added.
Chris Nehikhare, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, provided historical context, sharing that the Nigerian Observer was founded on May 29, 1968, by the late Brigadier General Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.
Established as a platform to inform, educate, and entertain, the newspaper became instrumental in training some of the nation’s most prominent journalists.
According to Nehikhare, former staff who later became influential media figures were honored in the Nigerian Observer Hall of Fame.
Inductees include Tony Iredia, former Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority; Tony Momoh, founder of Channels Television; Nduka Obaigbena, founder of Thisday Newspapers and Arise Television; and Sunny Irabor, a respected broadcaster.
Other honorees include Frank Aigbogun of Business Day, Nosa Igiebor of Tell Magazine, and Abiodun Aloba, pioneer General Manager of Midwest Newspapers Limited.
Nehikhare explained that the Nigerian Observer’s decline in recent years was due to inadequate funding, which drew Governor Obaseki’s attention.
This restoration effort is intended to revitalize the media sector in Edo State, underscoring the administration’s dedication to preserving Edo’s historical and cultural heritage.
