Veteran journalist and publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Sam Amuka, affectionately known as Uncle Sam, celebrated his 90th birthday by giving back to society with a visit to the Centre for Destitute Empowerment International in the Idimu area of Lagos. Accompanied by family and close associates, Amuka donated various gift items to the centre, highlighting his lifelong commitment to social welfare and humanitarian causes.
Alice Okoliko, the founder of the centre, expressed her deep gratitude for Amuka’s unwavering support over the years. She recalled that before meeting him, the centre had struggled for 15 years to obtain certification from the Lagos State Government. However, Amuka’s timely intervention and thoughtful inquiries led to the centre receiving the certification within three months.
Okoliko also shared how Amuka played a crucial role in helping the centre secure a building in Abuja when they were operating from a rented apartment. During his 85th birthday celebration, they reached out to him, and he encouraged them with words of hope, saying, “God can do it.” With his assistance and that of other supporters, they were able to raise the funds for the children’s new home.
In addition to his personal contributions, Amuka’s family and corporate partners rallied financial support for the Centre in his honour. Mrs. Omasan Dudu-Amuka, the daughter of the celebrant and Vanguard’s Assistant General Manager (Admin/Legal), announced that a total of ₦10 million was raised for the centre. Contributions included ₦2.5 million from Punch Media Limited, ₦1.5 million from the family, ₦5 million from Vanguard Media Limited, and ₦1 million from Mr. Jolomi Rewane.
Mrs. Dudu-Amuka praised the Centre’s tireless efforts in helping the vulnerable, stressing that the community should recognize and support such essential work. “A society that ignores its most vulnerable has lost its moral compass,” she said.
The event concluded with performances by children from the centre and calls for greater empathy and collective responsibility toward the underprivileged. Amuka’s 90th birthday celebration not only marked a personal milestone but also highlighted the importance of giving back to the community.
