TEXEM UK, a prominent leadership development organization based in the UK, has expressed praise for the appointment of Toke Alex-Ibru as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of The Guardian newspaper, highlighting his connection as an alumnus of the organization.
In a statement featured on its website, TEXEM UK hailed the appointment as a significant milestone for one of Nigeria’s premier media establishments. Caroline Lucas, the organization’s Director of Special Projects, lauded Alex-Ibru’s tenure, emphasizing his pivotal role in steering The Guardian into a new era of digital innovation and media relevance.
Lucas underscored Alex-Ibru’s decade-long journey with The Guardian, during which he served as Executive Director, contributing immensely to the paper’s transformation into a dynamic multimedia group. She commended his visionary leadership, which not only adapted the newspaper to the digital age but also ensured its sustained prominence in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
Highlighting Alex-Ibru’s diverse background, Lucas noted his academic achievements as a history graduate from Exeter University, UK, and his extensive experience across various sectors in Nigeria spanning over 15 years. She emphasized his significant contributions as a board member of prominent organizations, showcasing his multifaceted approach to leadership and his commitment to advancing women’s causes.
Lucas also praised Alex-Ibru’s stewardship of Guardian Woman, a prominent weekly insert celebrating Nigerian women’s accomplishments, which has become a cornerstone platform for women-focused organizations. She highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit through the establishment of Lexan Media Services Ltd. in 2003 and the introduction of Time Out magazine to Nigeria in 2005, demonstrating his commitment to bringing global perspectives to the Nigerian market.
As an esteemed alumnus of TEXEM UK, Alex-Ibru’s achievements serve as a testament to the caliber of leaders nurtured by the organization. Lucas expressed anticipation for the continued success of The Guardian under his capable leadership, reflecting the organization’s commitment to fostering transformative leadership across various industries.