The appointment of Toke Alex-Ibru, as the new Managing Director of the Guardian newspapers has been described as appointing the best man for the job.
In a statement on its website, www.texem.co.uk, the United Kingdom based leadership development organisation, TEXEM UK of which Alex-Ibru is an alumnus called the appointment a momentous development for one of Nigeria’s leading media houses.
TEXEM’s Director Special Projects, Caroline Lucas in the statement said Alex-Ibru ascended to the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the ongoing restructuring of the Guardian’s operations.
“The seasoned executive and distinguished alumnus of TEXEM UK, Alex-Ibru, takes the helm at the Guardian, succeeding the outgoing Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Martins Oloja.
“Alex-Ibru’s journey with the Guardian spans a decade, during which he served as the Executive Director and played a pivotal role in transforming the traditional newspaper into a dynamic, integrated multimedia group.
“His visionary leadership has not only propelled the Guardian into the digital age but has also contributed significantly to the paper’s sustained relevance in the ever-evolving media landscape,” Lucas said.
According to the director, as a History graduate from Exeter University, UK, Alex-Ibru’s impressive portfolio extends beyond his role at The Guardian.
“With over 15 years of experience in various sectors in Nigeria, he has cultivated unparalleled contacts across industries.
“His contributions as a board member of organisations such as Ikeja Hotels, Capital Hotels, Charles Hampton, Nigerian-Belgian Chamber of Commerce, and Warif showcase his multifaceted approach to leadership.
“His recognition as the Man of the Year at the EbonyLife TV Sisterhood Awards in 2017 underscores his commitment to advancing women’s causes,” she said.
Lucas said that his stewardship of Guardian Woman, an influential eight-page weekly insert celebrating Nigerian women’s achievements has turned it into a cornerstone media platform for women-focused organisations.
“The announcement of Toke Alex-Ibru as the new CEO comes as no surprise, given his extensive background and dedication to The Guardian’s growth.
“His strategic vision, coupled with over 15 years of commercial experience in publishing, positions him well to enrich the brand equity of the 40-year-old newspaper.
“Beyond his role at The Guardian, Toke Alex-Ibru has made significant contributions to the media landscape,” the TEXEM director said.
