Brown Ideye, the victorious 2013 African Cup of Nations player, is set to lead Team PUNCH in a novelty match against Nigeria Media XI at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly Onikan Stadium), Onikan, Lagos Island, on February 24.
The Nigeria Media XI comprises journalists from various newspaper houses and will be coached by former Eagles striker Victor Agali.
This novelty game marks the kickoff of PUNCH Nigeria Limited’s 50th-anniversary celebration in Lagos.
While PUNCH, the publisher of renowned titles like The PUNCH, Saturday PUNCH, Sunday PUNCH, and PUNCH Online, reached its 50th milestone on March 18, 2023, the celebration was shifted to this year due to its occurrence during an election month and year.
The 50th-anniversary festivities coincide with the 40th remembrance of the late Chief James Olubunmi Aboderin, the founding Chairman, who passed away on February 28, 1984, at the age of 50.
Starting on February 28, PUNCH will host a three-day photo exhibition at the Alliance Francaise de Lagos/Mike Adenuga Centre, Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, showcasing iconic photographs from its extensive archive of significant national events.
A distinguished public lecture on February 29 at the Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Lagos, is expected to draw leaders from the public and private sectors.
The celebration continues on March 2, 2024, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, with a black-tie dinner to recognize stakeholders’ contributions to PUNCH’s success.
Angela Emuwa, the Chairman of the company’s board, sees the anniversary and her father’s 40th remembrance as twin milestones, emphasizing PUNCH’s enduring impact on Nigeria over five decades.
Adeyeye Joseph, the Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief, described PUNCH as a national treasure that stood with Nigeria through thick and thin.
The 50th anniversary is an occasion to celebrate the newspaper’s heritage and editorial independence.
The grand finale, a staff party on March 9, will honor current and former staff for their contributions to PUNCH’s success.
A special commemorative anniversary publication will be distributed at various events to mark the golden jubilee anniversary of the newspaper.
