The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has challenged online publishers to move beyond the pursuit of web traffic and embrace innovative business models capable of guaranteeing financial sustainability, profitability and credibility in the digital media industry.
The forum gave the charge at its 2026 Annual Conference Business Training Workshop and 6th Annual Lecture Series, held in Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with the theme, “Beyond Traffic: Building Sustainable and Profitable Digital Media Businesses.”
Speaking at the event, DOPF Chairman, Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, said generating traffic alone could not guarantee the survival of online media organisations, stressing the need for publishers to develop sustainable revenue streams and strengthen their professional capacity.
Enebeli urged publishers to embrace innovation, explore new business opportunities and build strong media brands without compromising journalistic ethics and integrity.
He encouraged participants to maximise the opportunities provided by the workshop, expressing optimism that the knowledge gained from the facilitators, Professor Presley Obukoadata and Major Oji, 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 Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Mrs Stella Macaulay, commended DOPF for its commitment to professional journalism, responsible digital publishing and public accountability.
Aniagwu described the conference theme as relevant to the realities of the evolving media industry, noting that online publishers must look beyond page views and audience figures to build credible, financially viable and professionally managed organisations.
He said the success of a media organisation should also be measured by the quality of its journalism, public trust, adherence to ethical standards and ability to generate sustainable economic value.
The commissioner emphasised the media’s critical role in promoting democratic governance, transparency and public participation, noting that accurate reporting and objective analysis enable citizens to understand government policies and make informed decisions.
He reaffirmed the Delta State Government’s recognition of the media as a strategic partner in communicating policies and development initiatives under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
The commissioner, however, urged online publishers to intensify efforts against misinformation, disinformation and sensationalism by upholding accuracy, fairness, accountability and editorial independence.
To improve their financial resilience, he advised publishers to explore digital subscriptions, strategic partnerships, responsible advertising, multimedia storytelling and effective audience development.
Aniagwu expressed confidence that the conference would produce practical recommendations for strengthening digital publishing, improving professional standards and creating a healthier information environment.
On his part, DOPF Secretary, Mr Shedrack Ogaga Onitsha, appreciated the special guest of honour, facilitators, invited guests and participants for their support and attendance.
Onitsha also acknowledged the state’s period of mourning following the death of former Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, noting that the late statesman’s contributions to Delta State would remain memorable.
He thanked participants for attending the workshop despite the prevailing circumstances.
The conference reinforced the need for online publishers to strike a balance between audience growth, credible journalism, innovative revenue generation and sustainable business practices in an increasingly competitive digital media environment.
