Reuben Adeleye Abati, a prominent Nigerian figure, is known for his diverse roles as a journalist, politician, television anchor, and newspaper columnist. He was born on November 7, 1965, his multifaceted career has left a significant impact on Nigerian media and politics.
| Full Name | Reuben Adeleye Abati |
| Date of Birth | November 7, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria |
| Occupation | Journalist, Politician, TV Anchor, Columnist |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater (Undergrad) | University of Calabar, Nigeria (1985) |
| PhD Alma Mater | University of Ibadan (1990) |
Early Life and Education
Abati’s journey began at the University of Calabar, where he graduated in 1985 with a degree in Theater Arts. Furthering his academic pursuits, he earned a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan in 1990. His educational background also includes a law degree from Lagos State University (1999), journalism training from the University of Maryland (1996–97), and a Certificate in Management and Leadership from the University of Oxford (2015).
Career In Journalism
Reuben Abati’s journalistic career spans over four decades, starting in 1985. Notably, he served as the chairman of the editorial board at The Guardian Newspapers from 2000 to 2011. During this period, he also functioned as Editorial Page Editor and columnist, contributing insightful commentary on national and international affairs.
Political Involvement
In 2011, Abati took on a significant political role as the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Goodluck Jonathan. This appointment placed him at the forefront of managing the President’s media office, media relations, and leading the Presidency’s public communications team until 2015.
Academic Engagement
Abati’s early career involved teaching courses in Dramaturgy, Theory and Criticism, Special Author Studies, and the Sociology of Literature at Olabisi Onabajo University. Despite transitioning to other fields, his contributions as a university teacher marked the beginning of his illustrious career.
Post-Presidency Media Work
Following his tenure in government, Abati returned to journalism, contributing regular columns to The Guardian newspaper and later to ThisDay newspaper. He also became an Anchor on Arise News’ “The Morning Show,” showcasing his continued dedication to media. His Tuesday column, “TuesdayWithReubenAbati,” is a notable feature in ThisDay newspaper.
Awards and Recognitions
Reuben Abati’s contributions to journalism have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards, including the Hadj Alade Odunewu/Diamond Award for Media Excellence Prize, the Cecil King Memorial Prize for Print Journalist of the Year, the Fletcher Challenge Commonwealth Prize for Opinion Writing, the Freedom Peace Prize for Journalism, and The Red Media Africa Living Legends Industry Award.
Current Engagements
Abati remains actively engaged as a consultant on media and public policy issues. His website, reubenabati.com.ng, and social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter (@abati1990) serve as outlets for his continued influence and commentary.
