A veteran journalist, poet and author, Ben Lawrence, has received a Presidential salute from President Muhammadu Buhari as he turns 80 tomorrow, October 9.
In a congratulatory message, President Buhari said that Lawrence’s vision of a pragmatic, responsive and agenda-setting media for the country should be upheld and pursued with vigour by all media professionals, who should always observe the irreplaceable tenets of accuracy, balance, fairness and proper attribution.
Describing Lawrence as a renowned and fearless columnist, whose commitment to telling the truth through the pen, passion for promoting development communication and upholding the standards of journalism had earned him recognition and several awards.
President Buhari commended the Journalist, who was Managing Editor of the Daily Times and Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors for always striking a delicate balance between his profession and the need to contribute to nation building, and providing mentorship to others.
The President advised younger writers, especially citizen journalists and media entrepreneurs in the emerging cyber space, to borrow a leaf from veterans like Lawrence whose patriotism is unmistakable, and resolve remains unshakable, in ensuring that democracy and development work for every Nigerian.
He prayed to God to grant the veteran journalist good health, longer life and strength to keep writing. [myad]
