The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has expressed sadness over the death of its former president, Dotun Oladipo, publisher of The Eagle Online.

This is contained in a statement signed by GOCOP publicity secretary, Kemi Yesufu and issued on Wednesday in Lagos.

The statement said that Mr Oladipo died on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 56.

It stated that Mr Oladipo’s death was a loss to GOCOP and the wider Nigerian media community.

It said Mr Oladipo served as GOCOP president from 2017 to 2021 and helped shape the guild during its formative years.

‘’Oladipo brought extensive traditional media experience into online publishing, having worked as a journalist and editor before establishing The Eagle Online.

‘’He was among the publishers who recognised the need for online publishers to unite, share ideas and build a stronger professional community.

‘’His tenure coincided with the rapid growth of online publishing, as more news platforms emerged and social media transformed news distribution,‘’ it stated.

The statement quoted the GOCOP president, Danlami Nmodu, as describing Mr Oladipo’s death as painful for the guild.

“Dotun played an important role in the development of GOCOP. He led the guild for four years,” Mr Nmodu said.

In the statement, Mr Nmodu said Mr Oladipo’s contribution to establishing online publishers as an important part of Nigeria’s media industry would always be remembered.

He said Mr Oladipo brought his experience as a journalist and publisher to the leadership of the guild.

“Dotun understood journalism and he understood the business of publishing. He was passionate about the place of online media in Nigeria,” he said.

The president said Mr Oladipo devoted his time to the growth of GOCOP and remained interested in the affairs of the association after leaving office.

He added that Mr Oladipo’s journalism career began long before online publishing became a major source of news in Nigeria.

The statement said Mr Oladipo’s mainstream media experience provided him with a strong grounding in reporting, editing and newsroom management.

It stated that Mr Oladipo later became publisher of The Eagle Online, joining journalists who moved into digital publishing as internet use transformed news consumption.

‘’Oladipo maintained relationships with publishers across the country and actively participated in the affairs of the association.

‘’GOCOP extended its condolences to Oladipo’s family, management and staff of The Eagle Online, friends and colleagues in the media industry.

‘’GOCOP will work with his family and associates on plans to honour his memory,‘’ the statement said.