President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist and Abuja Bureau Chief of The Tribune newspaper, Dr. Leon Usigbe, describing him as a respected figure in Nigeria’s media landscape and a committed professional who exemplified the values of ethical journalism.

Dr. Usigbe, a seasoned member of the State House Press Corps, died on Friday night after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy marked by excellence in reporting and unwavering commitment to the truth.

The President’s condolence message was conveyed in a statement released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.

In the statement, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late journalist, describing him as “a veteran State House correspondent whose calm demeanour, integrity, and insightful reporting were instrumental in deepening democratic governance in Nigeria.”

“Dr. Usigbe was a consummate professional whose dedication to balance, accuracy, and ethical standards earned him the respect of his peers, public officials, and readers across the country. His work kept Nigerians informed about the workings of government and the Presidency in a way that strengthened public trust and democratic accountability,” the President noted.

President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Usigbe family, the Tribune newspaper, and the State House Press Corps, praying that God grants the deceased eternal rest and comforts all who mourn this profound loss.

Similarly, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in an emotionally laden condolence message, described Usigbe’s death as “a heartbreaking and monumental loss to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.”

“It is with profound shock and deep sadness that I received the heartbreaking news of the sudden demise of Dr. Leon Habby Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of Tribune newspaper,” the minister said.

Idris extolled the late journalist’s professionalism, intellectual depth, and unwavering dedication to national development. “Dr. Usigbe was not just an outstanding journalist; he was a shining light within the Nigerian media landscape. His pen was a tool for accountability, democracy, and nation-building.”

The minister further acknowledged Usigbe’s impactful presence at government press briefings, particularly at the Federal Ministry of Information and the Presidential Villa, stating that his eloquent and thought-provoking interventions helped foster a more informed society and bridged communication between the media and government institutions.

“I recall with particular sorrow his eloquent and thoughtful contributions during the Ministerial Press Briefing Sessions and his consistent presence at the State House media engagements. He elevated public discourse and gave voice to meaningful questions that helped shape public understanding of government policies,” Idris added.

In his concluding remarks, the minister said Nigeria had lost one of its finest media minds, whose courage, intellect, and clarity of purpose earned him nationwide respect.

On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and in his personal capacity, Idris extended condolences to the management and staff of Tribune newspapers, the government and people of Edo State, as well as to the family, friends, and professional colleagues of the late journalist.

“May Almighty God comfort all those he has left behind and grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the minister prayed.

Dr. Leon Usigbe was widely regarded for his meticulous approach to journalism and his quiet but impactful presence among his peers. He is remembered as a diligent and principled reporter who embodied the very best of the journalism profession.