The Newspaper Proprietors' Association of Nigeria (NPAN) has ushered in a new leadership era, electing Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru, Publisher of The Guardian Newspaper, as its President during its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM).
New Leadership and National Concerns
The AGM, which began with a tribute to the late veteran journalist Dan Agbese, served as a platform for the association to address pressing national issues. In a statement co-signed by the new President, Alex-Ibru, and the newly elected General Secretary, Mrs. Angela Emuwa of Punch Nigeria Limited, NPAN presented a critical review of the nation's state.
The association acknowledged the government's structural reforms but expressed deep concern over the severe economic hardship faced by citizens. It specifically pointed to the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of forex windows as key factors exacerbating the situation. NPAN urgently called on the government to manage inflation effectively and for all three tiers of government to reduce the high cost of governance and tackle corruption.
Call for Action on Security and Democracy
NPAN voiced profound regret over the heightened insecurity plaguing the country. The association condemned the killings of senior military officers and the recent abduction of schoolgirls. It demanded a thorough investigation into the murder of Brigadier-General Musa Uba, emphasizing the need for accountability and decisive government action to stabilize security nationwide.
On democratic values, NPAN reaffirmed its commitment to a multi-party system, expressing worry over the shrinking democratic space. It highlighted the importance of free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, and the rule of law. The association also reiterated the media's vital role in holding power accountable and raised concerns about the inadequate regulation of online media platforms, while firmly recommitting to press freedom in Nigeria.
Composition of the New Executive Council
The 2025 AGM resulted in the election of a robust executive team to lead the association. The newly elected officials are:
- President: Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru (Publisher, The Guardian)
- Deputy President: Mr. Frank Aigbogun (Publisher, BusinessDay)
- Vice President: Mr. Fidelis Anosike (Publisher, Daily Times)
- General Secretary: Mrs. Angela Emuwa (Chairman, Punch Nigeria Limited)
- Treasurer: Ahmed Shekarau (Group CEO, Trust Media)
- Organising Secretary: Azu Ishiekwene (Editor-In-Chief, LEADERSHIP)
- Publicity Secretary: Dr. (Mrs.) Nwadiuto Iheakanwa (Group MD, Champion Newspapers)
Other ex-officio members include Mrs. Zainab Nda-Isaiah, Mr. Ayodele Aminu, and Prince Dennis Sami, who will all contribute to the association's strategic direction.
