The Independent was founded in 1983 by Dr. Ismail Babatunde Jose, a renowned Nigerian journalist and media executive. Dr. Jose established the newspaper with the vision of creating a truly independent voice in Nigerian journalism, free from government or corporate influence. The idea for The Independent came from his extensive experience in the Nigerian media landscape and his desire to elevate the standards of journalism in the country. Today, The Independent is owned by Independent Newspapers Limited, a private media company based in Lagos, Nigeria. Based in Lagos, Nigeria's largest city, The Independent covers a wide range of news topics including politics, business, sports, entertainment, and technology. As one of Nigeria's leading newspapers, it provides comprehensive coverage of national and international news, with a particular focus on Nigerian and African affairs. The newspaper and its website offer in-depth reporting, analysis, and opinion pieces on current events, as well as features on lifestyle, culture, and human interest stories. The Independent aims to be a reliable source of information for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. One interesting fact: A unique aspect of The Independent is its historical connection to the fight for press freedom in Nigeria. During the military regimes of the 1980s and 1990s, The Independent was known for its bold reporting and criticism of government policies, often facing pressure and threats as a result. This legacy of standing up for press freedom has shaped the newspaper's identity and continues to influence its approach to journalism in Nigeria's evolving media landscape.