Bayo Onanuga is a Nigerian Journalist, and also the Senior Special Assistant on Information and Strategy to the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Onanuga boasts of a robust and in-depth media and journalism career as he has occupied countless roles and performed exceedingly well.
Early Life and Education
Bayo Onanuga was born on June 20, 1957, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria. His educational journey began at Moslem Primary School in Ijebu-Ode, followed by Muslim College Ijebu Ode. In 1977, he joined the University of Lagos to study Mass Communication, graduating with a second-class upper degree in 1980.
Career Achievements
Co-Founder of TheNews Magazine
In February 1993, Bayo Onanuga teamed up with other media professionals to establish TheNews Magazine. Despite facing challenges, the magazine became a respected voice in Nigerian journalism. Later, when TheNEWS was shut down by the military government, the group launched TEMPO magazine and, subsequently, P.M.NEWS in 1994.
Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
In May 2016, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Onanuga as the managing director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). His leadership contributed significantly to the agency’s operations and impact on national news dissemination.
Political Aspirations
In 2014, Bayo Onanuga expressed interest in contesting for the senatorial position in Ogun East district under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner during the 2015 general election.
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy
On October 13, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Bayo Onanuga as the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. This appointment underscores Onanuga’s expertise and the trust placed in him to handle strategic communication for the government.
Bayo Onanuga’s Wife
Bayo Onanuga is happily married to Toyin Machado-Onanuga, and their partnership reflects his commitment to both family and professional endeavors.
Conclusion
Bayo Onanuga’s journey from co-founding TheNews Magazine to serving as the managing director of NAN and now as a Special Adviser demonstrates his unwavering dedication to journalism and public service. His impact continues to shape Nigeria’s media landscape, and his story inspires aspiring journalists and communicators across the nation.
