Lanre Arogundade Takes Key IFEX Roles As Global Press Freedom Faces New Tests
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The global fight for press freedom is giving Nigeria a stronger voice at the table, with International Press Centre (IPC) Executive Director Lanre Arogundade taking on two leadership responsibilities within the International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX).
Arogundade has been elected Deputy Convenor of the 13-member IFEX Council and appointed to its Governance Committee, following the council’s inaugural meeting for the 2026–2029 term on August 5.
He was first elected to the IFEX Council at its reconvened Annual General Meeting on July 16.
As Deputy Convenor, Arogundade will support Convenor Layal Bahnam of the Maharat Foundation and assume leadership of council and members’ meetings in her absence.
He will also help drive implementation of council decisions and contribute to the network’s governance.
His Governance Committee role will focus on institutional effectiveness, strategic oversight and strengthening the network’s governance framework.
Former IFEX Convenor and Chairman of the IPC Governing Board, Edetaen Ojo, described the appointments as significant at a time when threats to press freedom are growing globally.
Arogundade said the roles represented “more responsibility” to help shape the strategic direction of a network whose collective voice has become increasingly important.
He pledged to work with IFEX leadership and members to strengthen the network’s response to restrictions on free speech, independent journalism and access to information.
The IPC has been a member of IFEX since 2016. The global network brings together more than 100 civil society organisations working to defend freedom of expression and journalists’ rights.
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