Abuja: The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, marked his 60th birthday with a heartfelt reflection on his life and career. He described reaching this age as a significant milestone and a blessing. The occasion was celebrated with a surprise birthday ceremony organized by the NAN management to honor him.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, during the event, Ali expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for recognizing his diamond jubilee, highlighting a statement issued by the President as a memorable aspect of the celebration. Ali, who turned 60 on Sunday, emphasized the rarity of reaching this age in good health in Nigeria, where the average life expectancy is 45 years. He expressed hope for a longer life, noting that his faith considers every day past 60 as a bonus.
Ali commended the NAN staff for their cooperation and dedication over the past two and a half years. He reflected on his nearly three years with the agency as a defining period, praising the staff for their support and making him feel valued. He described the NAN team as a ‘great family’ that has been instrumental in his leadership journey.
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement released by his spokesman Bayo Onanuga, congratulated Ali on his milestone birthday. Tinubu lauded Ali for his vast experience and skills that have been vital in strengthening NAN’s mandate. The President acknowledged the agency’s consistent efforts in news gathering, dissemination, and collaboration with international institutions and media platforms under Ali’s leadership. These efforts, Tinubu noted, have enhanced Nigeria’s image and addressed the challenges of fake news, especially through digital engagement.
Tinubu also highlighted Ali’s role in bridging gaps among citizens, private sector leaders, and the government through strategic event coverage. He praised the NAN boss for fostering specialized reporting on critical sectors and government initiatives, reinforcing the agency’s position as Africa’s leading news agency.
Born on June 7, 1966, Ali holds a degree in International Affairs and a Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communications from Ahmadu Bello University and Bayero University Kano, respectively. His career spans over 30 years in both public and private sector media organizations, showcasing his commitment to media evolution and content development in the digital era. Ali is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the NIPR, NUJ, and the NGE.