By Remi Diagbare, first Editor of Allure

As Vanguard Newspaper celebrates its 40th anniversary, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and nostalgia.

My journey

My journey with this illustrious institution spanned three decades from my early days as a young journalist to my retirement in December 2019.

 Reflecting on these years, I am reminded of the remarkable experiences, the challenges, and the unyielding dedication that defined my time at Vanguard. When I joined Vanguard, I was immediately struck by the passion and commitment of my colleagues. The newsroom buzzed with energy, filled with spirited debates, meticulous fact-checking, and a shared commitment to uncovering the truth. 

Over the years, I had the privilege of working with some of the finest minds in journalism, learning, and growing alongside them.

The highlight of my career was founding Allure, where we established a formal department dedicated to managing fashion and lifestyle, elevating our brand’s sophistication and market presence.

 Vanguard was more than just a workplace; it was a learning institution. Senior journalists took the time to mentor the younger generation, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. This mentorship was instrumental in shaping my career and that of many others.

The Pillar of Vanguard: Mr. Sam Amuka

Life at Vanguard revolved around its remarkable publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka, fondly known as Uncle Sam. His vision, leadership, and unwavering support were instrumental in shaping the newspaper into the formidable institution it is today.

 Uncle Sam’s influence extended far beyond his official role; he was a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working with him.

His legacy continues to inspire and guide the newspaper.

Uncle Sam’s dedication to nurturing talent and encouraging creativity made Vanguard a fertile ground for budding journalists. His keen interest in every aspect of the newspaper, from the front-page headlines to the intricacies of lifestyle and fashion stories, ensured that Vanguard’s content was always top-notch. Under his guidance, I developed a keen interest in fashion and lifestyle writing, where I found my niche and thrived.

Working at Vanguard was not just a job but a way of life. The camaraderie among the staff, the relentless pursuit of excellence, and the shared commitment to the newspaper’s mission created a unique and enriching environment. 

The newsroom was a place of dynamic energy, with writers and editors constantly collaborating, debating, and striving to deliver the best possible content. This spirit of teamwork and dedication was embodied by Uncle Sam, whose presence was a constant source of motivation and support. He made Vanguard the best thing that happened to most of us, and his legacy continues to inspire and guide the newspaper.

Like any long journey, my time at Vanguard was not without its challenges. The pressures of meeting deadlines, the occasional conflicts, and the demands of balancing accuracy tested our resilience. However, these challenges were invaluable learning experiences, shaping us into better journalists and more resilient individuals. They also fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity among us, as we faced these challenges together, strengthening our bond and commitment to the institution.

A Fond Farewell

Retiring in December 2019 was a bittersweet moment for me. Leaving behind a place that had been my second home for 30 years was not easy. However, I am comforted by the knowledge that Vanguard continues to uphold the highest standards of journalism, inspiring the next generation of reporters and editors.

A deep sense of purpose, camaraderie, and an unyielding pursuit of truth marked my years at Vanguard. As the newspaper celebrates its 40th anniversary, I join in the celebrations with a heart full of gratitude and admiration. I am also deeply thankful to the readers of Vanguard Newspaper, whose unwavering support and engagement have been instrumental in our success. Vanguard’s journey is a shining example of what dedicated journalism can achieve, and I am honoured to have played a part in its illustrious history.

As Vanguard celebrates its 40th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of truthful, courageous, and impactful journalism. The newspaper’s legacy is not just in its past achievements but in its continued commitment to illuminating the path towards a more informed and just society.

Above all, I must profusely thank Uncle Sam for the opportunity he gave me to be who I am today. His mentorship, support, and unwavering belief in my potential have been the bedrock of my career.

Vanguard News