DOPF Urges Online Publishers To Look Beyond Traffic For Sustainable Digital Media Businesses
THE Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has urged online publishers to look beyond website traffic and adopt innovative business strategies to build financially sustainable, profitable and credible digital media organisations.
The call was made at the Forum’s 2026 Annual Conference Business Training Workshop and 6th Annual Lecture Series in Asaba, where participants examined strategies for strengthening digital media businesses under the theme, “Beyond Traffic: Building Sustainable and Profitable Digital Media Businesses.”
In his welcome address, DOPF Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, said online publishers must build media organisations that are not only influential but also financially viable.
He noted that although audience traffic remains important, it is not enough to guarantee the survival of digital publications. He therefore encouraged publishers to explore new revenue opportunities, embrace innovation, strengthen their brands and improve their professional skills without compromising journalistic ethics and integrity.
Enebeli urged participants to take advantage of the training facilitated by Professor Presley Obukoadata and Professor Majority Oji, expressing optimism that the workshop would contribute to the growth of digital media and professional journalism in Delta State.
In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mrs Stella Marculay, commended DOPF for promoting professional journalism, responsible digital publishing, public accountability and constructive engagement on issues affecting society.
Aniagwu described the workshop theme as timely, noting that changes in the digital media landscape require publishers to move beyond page views and audience numbers to build credible and financially viable organisations.
He said media success should also be measured by the quality of journalism, public trust, adherence to ethical standards and the capacity to create sustainable economic value.
The commissioner highlighted the media’s role in promoting democratic governance, transparency and public participation, noting that accurate reporting and objective analysis help citizens understand government policies and make informed decisions.
He reaffirmed the Delta State Government’s recognition of the media as a partner in communicating policies and development initiatives under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
Aniagwu also urged online publishers to combat misinformation, disinformation and sensationalism by prioritising accuracy, fairness, accountability and editorial independence.
To improve financial resilience, he encouraged publishers to explore strategic partnerships, digital subscriptions, responsible advertising, multimedia storytelling and audience development.
He expressed confidence that the workshop would generate practical recommendations for improving online publishing, strengthening professional standards and promoting a healthier information environment.
In his vote of thanks, DOPF Secretary, Mr Shedrack Ogaga Onitsha, expressed appreciation to 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, noting that the late leader’s contributions to the state would be remembered.
Onitsha thanked participants for attending the workshop despite the circumstances surrounding the former governor’s death.
The workshop reinforced the need for digital publishers to balance audience growth with credible journalism, diversified revenue generation and sound business practices in order to sustain their operations over the long term.
