Aniagwu Tasks Online Publishers On Ethical Journalism, Sustainable Digital Media Business
Delta State Commissioner for Works, Rural Roads and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has urged online publishers to embrace innovative revenue models, uphold journalistic ethics and strengthen public trust as part of efforts to build financially sustainable digital media businesses.
Aniagwu gave the charge in a goodwill message delivered by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Mrs Stella Marculay, at the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) 2026 Annual Conference Business Training Workshop and 6th Annual Lecture Series in Asaba on Wednesday, October 21.
The conference was held under the theme, *“Beyond Traffic: Building Sustainable and Profitable Digital Media Businesses.”*
The commissioner described the theme as timely, noting that the rapidly changing digital media environment required publishers to look beyond page views and audience numbers and develop business models capable of sustaining their operations over the long term.
He maintained that the success of a media organisation should not be measured solely by its ability to attract traffic but also by the quality of its journalism, its credibility, adherence to professional standards and capacity to generate sustainable revenue.
Aniagwu commended DOPF for its contributions to professional journalism, responsible digital publishing, public accountability and constructive engagement on issues affecting society.
He emphasised that the media remained a critical pillar of democratic governance, particularly in promoting transparency, encouraging public participation and providing citizens with accurate information to assess government policies and programmes.
According to him, credible reporting, balanced coverage and objective analysis are essential to helping citizens make informed decisions and strengthening accountability in public administration.
The commissioner reaffirmed the Delta State Government’s recognition of the media as a strategic partner in communicating its policies, programmes and development initiatives under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
He, however, cautioned online publishers against misinformation, disinformation and sensationalism, stressing the need to place accuracy, fairness, accountability and editorial independence above the pursuit of traffic and commercial interests.
Aniagwu urged digital media operators to explore alternative revenue opportunities, including strategic partnerships, digital subscriptions, responsible advertising and multimedia storytelling, while investing in audience development and strengthening their brands.
He noted that diversifying income sources and adopting sound business strategies would help publishers withstand the financial pressures associated with operating in an increasingly competitive digital environment.
The commissioner expressed confidence that the DOPF conference would generate practical ideas for improving online publishing, strengthening professional standards and promoting a healthier information ecosystem.
Earlier, DOPF Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, said online publishers needed to build media businesses that were not only influential but also financially viable.
Enebeli observed that although audience traffic remained important, it was insufficient to guarantee the survival of digital media organisations, urging publishers to embrace innovation, diversify revenue streams and improve their professional skills without compromising journalistic ethics.
He encouraged participants to benefit from the expertise of the workshop facilitators, Professor Presley Obukoadata and Major Oji, expressing optimism that the training would contribute to the growth of digital media and professional journalism in Delta State.
In his vote of thanks, DOPF Secretary, Mr Shedrack Ogaga Onitsha, appreciated the special guest of honour, facilitators, invited guests and participants for their support and attendance.
He also acknowledged the state’s period of mourning following the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing the late leader as a notable figure whose contributions to the state would be remembered.
Onitsha thanked participants for attending the programme despite the circumstances surrounding the state’s mourning period.
The conference highlighted the need for online publishers to combine credible journalism with innovative business strategies to build resilient media organisations capable of sustaining public confidence while remaining financially viable.
