Online Media Deserves Equal Recognition, GOMEP-NG Tells Government, Corporate Bodies

By our Correspondent

Nigeria’s digital news industry is growing faster than ever, yet many online media practitioners say they are still denied the recognition given to traditional media. GOMEP-NG is now demanding a change, arguing that online journalism has become the nation’s fastest and most effective source of verified information.

As Nigeria’s media landscape rapidly shifts toward digital platforms, the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has called on government institutions and corporate organisations to recognise the growing influence of online media practitioners. The association says digital publishers now play a critical role in delivering verified news quickly, increasing public awareness and giving organisations the visibility they seek.

The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) says online media practitioners deserve greater recognition because they publish verified news promptly, provide wider digital visibility for organisations and have become essential to Nigeria’s modern information ecosystem.

ABUJA — The National President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, has urged government institutions, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to accord online media practitioners the recognition and respect they deserve, citing their increasingly vital role in timely news dissemination and public communication.

Otiti made the call while speaking on the growing relevance of online journalism in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving media landscape.

According to him, several government agencies and corporate organisations have expressed disappointment after inviting reporters from some conventional media organisations to cover their events, only for the stories to remain unpublished.

He explained that reports filed by journalists in many traditional media organisations often pass through multiple editorial stages before publication. Consequently, editors determine which stories eventually make it to print or broadcast.

However, he noted that online media platforms operate differently, allowing verified reports to be published almost immediately after events are covered.

This, he said, gives organisations faster publicity and wider digital visibility.

“Online media editors and publishers are committed to ensuring that reports from events they cover are published promptly, thereby giving organisations the visibility they seek,” Otiti said.

He observed that delays or non-publication of stories by some conventional media outlets have, in many cases, left event organisers frustrated despite investing significant resources in media coverage.

Otiti stressed that online media has become an indispensable pillar of Nigeria’s information ecosystem, delivering real-time news to millions of readers across multiple digital platforms.

He therefore called on government agencies, corporate organisations and private institutions to strengthen partnerships with credible online media organisations in order to enhance transparency, public engagement and effective communication.

Furthermore, the GOMEP-NG president reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professionalism, ethical journalism and responsible reporting.

According to him, members of the guild will continue to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness and the prompt dissemination of verified information.

He also appealed to Nigerians to support the continued growth of online journalism, describing digital media as an essential driver of democracy, accountability and access to information in the country.

Otiti maintained that as technology continues to reshape news consumption, credible online media organisations will remain indispensable partners in informing the public and promoting national development.