The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has made a bold, scholarly statement with its maiden book, Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing, launched this past Tuesday in Abuja.
The book, a meticulously crafted benchmark for the burgeoning field of online journalism in Nigeria, has had resounding endorsements from a cross-section of Nigeria’s intellectual and political elite, including Information Minister Alhaji Mohammed Idris and NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku, underscoring the book’s immediate relevance and lasting potential.
Reviewed by none other than Dr. Neliaku, President of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the book appears poised to become a foundational text. Dr. Neliaku’s commendation, coupled with his role as reviewer, speaks volumes about the academic rigour and professional insight contained within its pages. For media professionals, students and indeed, anyone navigating the complexities of the digital information age, this book promises to be an indispensable guide. It’s a testament to GOCOP’s commitment to setting “the pace and standard in online publishing,” a sentiment echoed by nearly every dignitary present at the unveiling.
The event itself, designed as a fundraiser for the GOCOP Media Centre, was a who’s who of Nigerian influence. The sheer diversity of attendees, ranging from government officials like Presidential spokesman Mr. Bayo Onanuga and Yobe State Commissioner for Information Hon. Abdullahi Bego, to corporate powerhouses like Shell’s representative Tony Ogedengbe and NNPC Limited Group Corporate Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye, highlights the book’s wide appeal and the pressing need for its insights across various sectors. Even security agencies, represented by the Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and academic stalwarts from institutions like Bingham University, were keen to engage with GOCOP’s vision.
This gathering was also about acknowledging a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s media landscape. “Nigeria Media Renaissance” is clearly positioned as more than a collection of essays; it’s a blueprint for navigating the challenges and harnessing the opportunities of online publishing responsibly and effectively. The fact that entities like the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the Nigerian Customs Service had representatives present further solidifies the book’s broad applicability and perceived value.
For those in the media or those with a critical eye on content creation, this book is a must-read. It promises not only to offer perspectives but to shape them, guiding the future of online publishing in Nigeria. GOCOP has indeed launched a movement towards greater professionalism and integrity in the digital sphere.
