By Joke Kujenya
EIGHTY YEARS of life and more than four decades of fearless commentary were marked as Dr Femi Orebe, widely called the Citizen Journalist, celebrated his milestone birthday on Wednesday, 24 September.
Known for his unflinching voice in Nigerian journalism, Orebe has written columns since the 1980s and continues to be recognised as one of the country’s most enduring commentators.
His career began with The People’s News, a paper established by the late Niyi Oniororo, where his sharp pen found early expression.
The publication’s reputation for challenging authority gave Orebe the space to craft a distinct style defined by clarity, conviction, and a refusal to shield underperforming leaders from criticism.
His bold approach, evident from the start, has since been compiled in a newly curated book of articles spanning the last 20 years, highlighting his consistency and depth of thought.
Away from journalism, Orebe built a distinguished academic record.
As a history student at the University of Ife (UNIFE) now Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), he earned admiration from both local lecturers and external examiners.
Professor Olaniyan had recalled that in the June 1971 final-year examination, Orebe’s response to a question on Belgian independence caught the attention of Professor J.D. Hargreaves of the University of Aberdeen.
His performance secured an “A” grade and nearly delivered the department’s first first-class degree.
Though he narrowly missed that mark, his excellence was recognised with the Faculty of Arts prize for best overall performance.
His academic path also included postgraduate work at the University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).
Beyond academia, Orebe brought his expertise into the corporate sector, serving as Chairman of the Board at Nigerite Plc.
His professional life has also consistently mirrored the intellectual discipline and dedication that shaped his career as a writer.
The milestone drew tributes from across Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu described him as “an ally,” emphasising the impact of his columns on national discourse.
According to the President, “His pen is transformative.
He writes to correct the ills of society and proffers ideas to engender the necessary changes.
His struggles and advocacy for democracy and good governance in the land are also noteworthy.”
Veteran diplomat Ambassador Dapo Fafowora added that Orebe, as fellow columnists at The Nation Newspapers, would be remembered as one of Nigeria’s finest newspaper columnists.
His assessment reflects the place Orebe holds within the country’s media landscape, where his work continues to shape debate and hold leaders accountable.
Those closer to Orebe speak of more personal qualities.
Married to his lovely and loving wife, Atinuke, for more than 50 years, he is described as a devoted family man whose partnership began at the University of Ife and has endured ever since.
Their union has become a defining feature of his life, often remarked upon by friends who see in it a model of loyalty and companionship.
His family ties extend through his children and a network of former students from Federal Government College, Idoani, and Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti.
The connection has strengthened bonds with many who regard him as more than a mentor, often referring to him with affectionate titles such as “Grandpa Lagos.”
The breadth of Orebe’s impact—across education, business, journalism, and private life—illustrates why his 80th birthday is regarded as a celebration of service as much as longevity.
From the lecture halls of Ife and Ibadan to the pages of Nigeria’s newspapers and the boardrooms of corporate Nigeria, he has remained a consistent presence.
His record demonstrates a lifelong commitment to critical inquiry, democratic advocacy, and family values.
The Citizen Journalist, who now enters his ninth decade with tributes that acknowledge both his public achievements and the personal warmth that endears him to many.
His pen, described by colleagues and leaders alike as transformative, continues to stand as a symbol of his enduring influence on Nigerian society.
With hearty cheers, we all, at JKNewsMedia.com with you a very happy and prosperous Happy Birthday as we pray for more meaningful longevity in Jesus Name, Amen!
