Mr. Fidelis Anosike, the publisher of Daily Times and treasurer of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), is set to release a monumental 700-page volume titled ‘The Nigeria Book’ in celebration of the centenary of Nigeria’s oldest media institution.
Scheduled for June 2026, this commemorative occasion will honor 100 years since the establishment of Daily Times in 1926-a publication that has chronicled and shaped Nigeria’s evolution from colonial rule to independence and its subsequent development.
In a statement to journalists in Lagos, Anosike described the upcoming book as a vital national archive and intellectual treasure designed to reshape Nigeria’s global image and inspire patriotism by exploring the nation’s cultural, political, and economic milestones throughout history.
The centenary celebrations will also pay tribute to distinguished former editors and contributors, including Vanguard Newspaper’s publisher Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, ex-Ogun State governor Olusegun Osoba, and Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, recognizing their significant roles in the newspaper’s legacy.
“This publication transcends mere documentation; it is a project aimed at nation-building. ‘The Nigeria Book’ is an extensive anthology capturing the essence of Nigeria-its identity, struggles, victories, and future promise. It reflects our people, traditions, values, and our collective ambition to assert our place on the world stage,” Anosike emphasized.
The book will be officially launched as a national literary work, presenting a chronological narrative of Nigeria’s identity formation, cultural progression, and the path to independence, encompassing both the colonial and post-colonial periods.
“Our goal is to narrate Nigeria’s story authentically, through the perspective of a media institution that has witnessed every pivotal moment in our nation’s history.
Daily Times is more than a newspaper; it is a national heritage and guardian of Nigeria’s collective memory,” Anosike affirmed.
Providing additional context, Aare (Dr.) Tunji Okegbola, the chief researcher for the Nigeria Book project and former chief librarian of Daily Times, revealed that the endeavor represents over ten years of meticulous archival investigation and historical compilation.
“This volume portrays Nigeria in its truest form-from its myriad ethnic groups to its natural resources, national identity, and the breathtaking richness of its landscape. Our work goes beyond documenting a country; it tells the story of its people, their dreams, and their historical journey,” Okegbola explained.
He added that the structure of the book heavily relies on the extensive Daily Times archives, which remain the most thorough in Nigeria, positioning the publication as an authoritative resource for future scholars, policymakers, and international audiences eager to grasp Nigeria’s intricate yet inspiring narrative.
Anosike also reflected on the revival of Daily Times, which was acquired by Folio Communications in 2004 after a period of decline, highlighting the newspaper’s enduring influence in nation-building-from pioneering financial journalism to championing democratic ideals.
