Safiu Kehinde
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has sought collaboration with stakeholders to sanitize online journalism and set standards.
Maureen Chigbo, the GOCOP President, made this known during her address at the launch of the organisation’s maiden publication, “Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing.”
Speaking at the event held on Tuesday at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, Chigbo stated that the organization’s primary objective is to sanitize the online media space and establish standards for the industry.
Chigbo emphasized the need for collaboration with stakeholders to achieve this goal.
As a group of professional journalists with over two decades of experience in mainstream media, GOCOP is committed to promoting ethical online publishing practices.
Chigbo further noted at the event, which also included fundraising for the GOCOP Media Center in Abuja, that the organization’s members are dedicated to upholding the principles of truth, fairness, and balanced reporting, and have introduced a self-regulatory mechanism to ensure compliance.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the GOCOP, in an effort to maintain high standards, has established several committees, including a Disciplinary Committee/Ombudsman to address public complaints and ensure accountability.
Chigbo stressed that the organization takes its self-regulation responsibility seriously and is committed to weeding out unprofessional conduct.
The GOCOP President acknowledged the contributions of members, contributors, and supporters, including Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of PREMIUM TIMES, who wrote the foreword to the book as well as the reviewer, and president, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr Ike Neliaku.
She also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, state governments, institutions, and corporate organizations for their support.
Chigbo appealed for generous donations to strengthen GOCOP and build the Guild’s Media Centre, which will empower members to run their businesses profitably.
She also urged public relations practitioners, advertisers, governments, and civil society organizations to support GOCOP businesses, emphasizing the critical role that online media plays in building a society where justice, peace, and individual rights are respected.
Also present at the GOCOP Book Launch and fundraising event was the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and his predecessor, Lai Mohammed.