Tinubu Wins AriseTV Owner's ThisDay Man of the Year Award, Defying Critics

By Dansu Peter  In an unexpected twist, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been named Thisday Man of the Year 2025, a decision that underscores...

By Dansu Peter 

In an unexpected twist, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been named Thisday Man of the Year 2025, a decision that underscores his audacious reforms and resilience in governing Nigeria. The announcement by *Thisday Newspapers*, a publication under the same ownership as AriseTV—a media outlet known for its critical stance on Tinubu—has sparked widespread discussion.  

AriseTV's flagship program, The Morning Show, hosted by Ojy Okpea and featuring journalists Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni, has been a frequent platform for critiquing Tinubu's policies. Despite this history, Thisday lauded the president as a leader who has remained resolute in his mission to transform Nigeria, even in the face of fierce criticism and mounting challenges.  

Media doyen, Nduka Obaigbena is the founder of AriseTV and the Publisher of ThisDay Newspaper

In a detailed editorial, Thisday described Tinubu as a "daring and gritty leader" who prioritizes conviction over sentiment. Highlighting his bold economic decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, the publication acknowledged the hardships these policies have caused but emphasized their long-term benefits.  

“On a balance of scales and given all considerations, it is hard to find anyone who could fairly challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Thisday Man of the Year commemoration,” the editorial read.  

A Presidency Defined by Tough Choices  

Tinubu’s administration has been characterized by decisive actions aimed at addressing long-standing economic issues. From championing local government autonomy to introducing controversial tax reforms, the president has faced criticism but remains undeterred. His leadership as ECOWAS chairman during the political instability in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso further cemented his place on the global stage.  

Despite the backlash, Tinubu has rolled out measures to cushion the economic impact of his policies, such as the deployment of CNG-powered buses and increased financial support to state governments. Under his watch, Nigeria’s external reserves have exceeded $40 billion, trade surpluses have re-emerged, and long-dormant refineries are returning to operation.  

A Surprising Recognition  

Tinubu’s selection as Thisday Man of the Year comes as a surprise, given the critical tone AriseTV has maintained since his campaign days. Critics of the president have often labeled him as polarizing, while supporters hail him as a reformist with the courage to make unpopular decisions.  

The editorial acknowledged areas for improvement in Tinubu’s governance, including the need for better consultation and execution of policies. However, it concluded that his achievements and resilience in the face of adversity make him the most consequential Nigerian of the year.  

This recognition has sparked conversations about the evolving relationship between Tinubu and his critics, as well as the broader implications for Nigeria’s media and political landscape. For many, it is a testament to the complexity of leadership in a nation undergoing profound change.