Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has described Vanguard Newspapers founder, Sam Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as Uncle Sam, as one of the few Nigerians who embody the true Nigerian spirit.
Amaechi made the remarks while delivering a goodwill message at the Vanguard Alumni Book Launch and Reunion held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Wednesday.
He pointed out that Amuka-Pemu’s ability to bring people from different ethnic backgrounds together and provide opportunities for people irrespective of their origins demonstrated the inclusive nature of his leadership.
According to Amaechi, people from the South-South are particularly known for their ability to accommodate Nigerians from different ethnic groups, noting that the diversity of editorial staff in newspapers owned by people from the region reflected this characteristic.
“It is only when you have a South-South person that you know that you have a Nigerian in the office. And you are one of them,” Amaechi said, referring to Amuka-Pemu.
He stressed that Amuka-Pemu had consistently given people opportunities, adding that he was also among those who had benefited from the Vanguard founder’s inclusive approach.
“Everybody is given an opportunity. And I am one of those people who he gave that opportunity too,” he said.
Amaechi also recalled an encounter with Amuka-Pemu at either his 60th birthday celebration or his son’s wedding, saying he had been surprised that the newspaper veteran attended despite his age.
He said when he asked Amuka-Pemu why he continued to attend such events, the Vanguard founder told him that making people happy was what kept him alive.
The former Rivers State governor assured the founder that his contributions to the lives of others would not be forgotten. “Be rest assured that people like us will not forget you,” he said.
He further prayed for Amuka-Pemu’s continued good health and long life, saying: “May God continue to bless you. May God continue to make you live for us here.”
