LAGOS, Nigeria — The Guardian, a prominent Nigerian newspaper, has announced a significant change in its leadership, appointing Toke Alex-Ibru as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
This appointment is a key move in the ongoing restructuring of the newspaper’s operations, according to a statement emailed to The Trent on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Mr Alex-Ibru’s appointment follows the announcement of Martins Oloja’s retirement as the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, effective at the end of March 2024. The Guardian’s Board highlighted
The new CEO’s extensive corporate and media experience was a critical factor in this decision.
Alex-Ibru, a graduate of the University of Exeter and alumni of IESE Business School has over 15 years of experience in publishing and seven years in hospitality management.
In his previous role as Executive Director, he significantly contributed to the newspaper’s management, development, sustainability, and digital transformation.
His career includes notable achievements such as establishing Lexan Media Services Ltd in 2003 and introducing Time Out magazine to Nigeria in 2005.
Alex-Ibru has also been a commercial representative for the Financial Times, UK, since 2010.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Alex-Ibru serves as a director on several boards, including Ikeja Hotels Plc and the Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc. His interests span a wide range of activities, from philosophy and reading to yoga and meditation.
The restructuring of The Guardian began in April last year with significant editorial changes, including the appointment of Dr. Oluwafemi Adekoya as the Editor (daily) and the consolidation of the Saturday and Sunday editions.
Reflecting on the changes, the outgoing MD/Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Oloja, expressed pride in the younger generation taking the helm. He emphasized the importance of adapting to the digital journalism age and continuing the legacy of The Guardian’s founder.
Lady Maiden Alex Ibru, Publisher and Chairman of the Board, lauded Mr. Oloja for his more than 24 years of service, describing his retirement as “well earned”. The Board also expressed its gratitude to Mr. Oloja for his dedication and contributions to the company.
Mr. Oloja, a respected figure in Nigerian journalism and a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, will remain a member of The Guardian’s Editorial Board.
As Mr. Alex-Ibru assumes his new role, the focus is on leveraging his expertise to enhance the newspaper’s brand equity and navigate the evolving landscape of media and journalism.
