By Prisca Sam-Duru
In a significant move to strengthen its mission of promoting tourism, arts, and culture, in Nigeria and across the globe, Tourists Club International (TCI) has appointed three eminent Nigerians – Uncle Sam Amuka, Publisher and Chairman of Vanguard Newspapers, as Grand Patron, and art historian Professor dele jegede, together with accomplished pharmacist, Mr. Winston Tinubu, as Patrons.
The appointments were announced in a press release signed by the President of Tourists Club International, Dr. Osa Mbonu-Amadi, to coincide with the 2025 World Tourism Day, usually held every September 27.
Uncle Sam Amuka’s appointment letter as Grand Patron was formally presented to him at his home in Anthony Village, Lagos, Nigeria. During the encounter, Amuka emphasised the need to translate words into action, advocating for a proactive approach to promoting tourism, arts, culture, and environmental protection. “Any time you are ready to do practical work, tell me. I will be with you,” he stated, expressing his vision for realising Nigeria’s vast but largely untapped tourism potential.
The appointment of Uncle Sam Amuka as Grand Patron is both a recognition of his lifetime commitment to the arts and culture as well as his indirect role in the formation of TCI. The idea for TCI was born in 2008 at BusinessDay Newspaper, which emerged from Vanguard, and the organisation was formally incorporated in 2020 by its promoters at Vanguard Newspapers, highlighting the strong connections between TCI and Amuka’s legacy.
Prof dele jegede, a distinguished US-based art historian, painter, cartoonist, and Professor Emeritus of Art and Art History, expressed deep gratitude upon being appointed as Patron. “I am honoured to be regarded as a Patron of Tourists Club International. This appointment reflects a shared commitment to the arts,” he remarked. Known for his distinctive style of writing his name in lowercase letters and his rule-breaking approach to grammar, jegede looks forward to contributing to TCI while learning more about the organisation’s initiatives.
Prof. jegede’s patronage underscores his enduring contributions to the arts and his ability to connect deeply with diverse people, a value that resonates with TCI’s mission.
On his part, Mr. Winston Tinubu, a renowned U.S.-based pharmacist and quiet philanthropist, while accepting his position as Patron with humility and enthusiasm, said: “It is with great honour that I accept this appointment. Together, we will achieve great things,” pledging to support TCI’s ambitious objectives.
Mr. Tinubu’s appointment acknowledges his impactful life as a philanthropist, particularly his support for indigent children, which reflects TCI’s commitment to uplifting society at large.
Hailing the appointments as pivotal milestones in the organisation’s ongoing journey, Dr. Mbonu-Amadi disclosed that TCI is dedicated to fostering a culture of appreciation for arts, tourism, and environmental stewardship while nurturing a spirit of love and harmony among all communities.
The appointments of Uncle Sam Amuka, Prof dele jegede, and Mr. Winston Tinubu signal a promising new chapter for TCI, aiming to leverage their vast experience and influence to enrich the global tourism landscape and promote a vibrant cultural heritage.
