By Oghenemega Augustin
The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has urged online publishers to move beyond the pursuit of website traffic and social media engagement by building credible, profitable and sustainable media organisations without compromising professional ethics.
Aniagwu gave the charge on Tuesday, when he declared open the Annual Conference and 6th Annual Lecture Series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Information, Asaba.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, described the conference theme, “Beyond Traffic: Building Sustainable and Profitable Digital Media Businesses,” as timely and relevant to the changing realities of modern journalism.
He observed that, although digital technology had transformed the production, distribution and consumption of information, media practitioners must look beyond audience numbers, page views and online engagement to develop financially viable and professionally responsible organisations.
According to him, the success of a media organisation should not be measured solely by the traffic it generates but also by the quality of its journalism, public trust, commitment to ethical standards and ability to create sustainable economic value.
“A profitable media business must equally be a credible media business, one that respects the truth, upholds professional ethics and contributes meaningfully to society,” Aniagwu stated.
The Commissioner expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation, disinformation, sensationalism and unverified content across digital platforms, warning that the pressure to publish quickly must not undermine accuracy and fairness.
He urged online publishers to explore innovative business opportunities, including digital subscriptions, strategic partnerships, responsible advertising, multimedia storytelling and investment in professional capacity development.
He maintained that financial sustainability must be pursued without sacrificing editorial independence or the public interest, stressing that credibility remained the greatest asset of any responsible media organisation.
Speaking on the role of the media in democratic governance, he described journalists as critical partners in promoting transparency, accountability and informed public partparticipation.
He noted that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, through the MORE Agenda, recognised effective communication and constructive engagement as essential to achieving sustainable development in Delta State.
The Commissioner explained that government policies and development programmes could only achieve their desired impact when citizens were adequately informed and given opportunities to participate in governance.
He, therefore, encouraged members of DOPF to continue supporting the development of the state through accurate reporting, balanced coverage and responsible commentary while holding public institutions accountable.
Aniagwu commended the leadership and members of the Forum for sustaining a platform dedicated to professional journalism, public enlightenment and constructive engagement on issues affecting society.
