Akpabio, Oborevwori, Ooni of Ife, Others Celebrate Abati at 60 as Obaigbena Honours Veteran Journalist 

Yinka Olatunbosun and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and other political and media icons have felicitated with veteran journalist and ARISE News anchor and analyst, Dr. Reuben Abati, on the occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary.
It was an evening of elegance and laughter as the Ooni of Ife, alongside several leading figures in Nigeria’s media and political circles, gathered at an exclusive dinner event, organised by the Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, to celebrate a veteran journalist and broadcaster.

The event, held hours after the public presentation of Abati’s three new books: ‘Portraits: People, Politics and Society’, ‘A Love Letter and Other Stories’ and ‘How Goodluck Jonathan Became President’, featured live music by the Mike Adenuga Band.

Guests enjoyed a relaxed evening filled with shared memories, laughter, and music from Abati’s youthful years.

In his remarks, Obaigbena praised Abati’s contributions to journalism and public life.

According to him, “Tonight is a family affair; we’re among colleagues, editors, journalists, and friends who have journeyed together over the years. Reuben is not just a colleague; he’s part of our story. From his time at The Guardian to his service in government and now on ARISE TV, he has maintained the highest standards of professionalism.”

In his remarks, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who attended as a special guest, lauded Abati’s humility, intellect, and enduring legacy in Nigerian journalism.

 “Dr Reuben Abati is not just a journalist; he is a son of the soil and a man of wisdom,” the monarch said. “Watching him on ARISE TV is always a delight; his composure and brilliance set him out.”

The Ooni also reflected on the cultural significance of Abati’s name, linking it to Yoruba ancestry.

“The name Abati has deep Yoruba roots. It is derived from one of the names we call God and symbolises something eternal; something that cannot be forgotten. You carry that meaning proudly, and it shows in your life and career.”

Similarly, former Ogun State Governor and veteran journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba, described Abati as one of Nigeria’s finest media minds, whose work continues to strengthen democracy and public accountability.

“Reuben represents the best of our profession: Intellect, courage, and balance. He has done the media proud, not just through his writings and broadcasts, but through his mentorship and dedication to truth.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Editorial Board of Leadership Newspaper, Azubuike Ishiekwene, acknowledged Abati’s influence across generations of journalists.

In a congratulatory message, Akpabio, who was represented at the event by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, extolled Abati’s distinguished career and enduring contributions to nation-building through journalism, academia, and public service.

He said, “Your commitment to excellence and your love for Nigeria are genuinely inspiring.

“As you continue to share your insights and expertise with the nation, I pray that you will be blessed with good health, peace of mind, and many more years of fruitful service.”

The Senate President further noted that Abati’s 60th birthday marks a significant milestone in a life dedicated to truth, professionalism, and patriotic service.

“As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I extend to you my warmest felicitations,” he wrote. 

On his part, Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Abati as a renowned journalist whose career has been marked by excellence, courage, and impactful service to the nation and humanity.

The governor commended Abati for his outstanding contributions to the growth and credibility of the Nigerian mass media, noting that his decades of work as a columnist, editor, media scholar, and broadcast journalist had inspired generations of journalists and deepened national discourse.
He described Abati’s contributions to discussions on ARISE News’ “The Morning Show” as consistently insightful, engaging, and profoundly educative.