The League of Online Publishers and Editors (LOPE) has elected a new five-member executive, with Mrs. Favour Benson emerging as Chairman to lead the association into a new phase.
The election was held on September 4, at the LOPE General Meeting, where all five candidates emerged unopposed and were subsequently endorsed by members of the association.
Other members of the new executive include the General-Secretary, Maureen Obire; Financial Secretary, Lillian Azuh; Treasurer, Angela Davies; and Welfare Officer/Provost, Shammah Ogbodo.
The newly elected officers were subsequently sworn into office by the association’s lawyer, Barrister Olakunle Afolabi, who also signed and sealed the relevant documents.
In her inaugural address, Benson thanked LOPE members for the confidence reposed in the new leadership and pledged to build on the experience and lessons of LOPE’s first tenure.
The new LOPE Chairman identified transparency, accountability, active participation and stronger commitment among members as priorities of the new administration.
In her words, “This is a responsibility we accept with humility and strong commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s digital media industry.
“We will work with our members and stakeholders to promote professionalism, collaboration, innovation and sustainable development across the sector,” Benson said.
The Favour Benson-led administration is also expected to review relevant provisions of LOPE constitution and introduce professional media training and other capacity-building initiatives for members of the association.
Members at the meeting described the new administration as “LOPE’s second lap” and called for greater unity, effective communication, tolerance and collective support in advancing the objectives of the association.
While reaffirming her commitment to integrity and democratic leadership, Benson urged members to take greater responsibility for the growth and success of the association.
ABOUT LOPE:
The League of Online Publishers and Editors(LOPE) is a national association of digital media professionals, publishers and editors in Nigeria, providing a platform for collaboration, advocacy, professional development, networking and the promotion of responsible digital journalism.
