FORMER governor of Abia State and Publisher of The Sun titles, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has described Mrs. Funke Egbemode, Managing Director and Editor-in- Chief of New Telegraph as a veteran journalist who has contributed immensely to the media industry.
Kalu said Egbemode has the capacity to steer the affairs of the Nigerian Guild Editors (NGE) and added that she would bring to bear her vast experience and network of contacts.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said: “I received, with joy, the news of the emergence of one of my colleagues, Mrs Funke Egbemode, as acting President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE).
“Her emergence is not a surprise to many Nigerians who are conversant with her media endeavours.
“Having served in various capacities and positions in the world of journalism, there is no doubting her capability to sustain the good name of the professional body.
“Mrs Egbemode has, over the years, created a niche for herself in the media industry, and, as such, her new role as acting NGE President is in the interest of the professional body.”
The former governor, while advising media professionals to exhibit a high level of professionalism in the discharge of their duties, added that the strategic importance of the media cannot be undermined in the society.
He affirmed that the media is “the voice of the voiceless.”
Kalu equally used the opportunity to commend the Guild for being gender-neutral in its appointments.