DOPF Urges Online Publishers to Look Beyond Traffic for Sustainable, Profitable Digital Media

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October 20, 2026

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called on online publishers to move beyond traffic generation and adopt innovative business strategies that strengthen the financial sustainability, credibility and professional standards of digital media organisations.

The call was made at DOPF’s 2026 Annual Conference Business Training Workshop and 6th Annual Lecture Series, held in Asaba on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 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 digital media businesses that are not only influential but also financially sustainable and profitable. He noted that while traffic generation is important, it is insufficient to guarantee survival, urging publishers to explore new revenue opportunities, embrace innovation, strengthen their brands and develop professional skills without compromising journalistic ethics and integrity.

Enebeli encouraged participants to take full advantage of the workshop and learn from facilitators Professor Presley Obukoadata and Major Oji, expressing optimism that the training would contribute to the growth of digital media and professional journalism in Delta State.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Works, Rural Roads and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, 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 conference theme as timely, noting that the evolving digital media landscape requires publishers to move beyond page views and audience numbers towards building credible and financially viable organisations. He emphasised that media success should also be measured by the quality of journalism, public trust, adherence to ethical standards and the ability to create sustainable economic value.

The commissioner further highlighted the media’s role in strengthening 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 vital partner in communicating policies and development initiatives under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.

He also urged online publishers to combat misinformation, disinformation and sensationalism by prioritising accuracy, fairness, accountability and editorial independence. To strengthen financial resilience, he encouraged publishers to explore strategic partnerships, digital subscriptions, responsible advertising, multimedia storytelling and audience development.

Aniagwu expressed confidence that the conference would generate practical recommendations to improve online publishing, strengthen professional standards and promote a healthier information environment.

In his vote of thanks, DOPF Secretary Mr Shedrack Ogaga Onitsha appreciated 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, describing the late leader as a figure whose contributions to the state would be remembered. He thanked everyone who attended the training despite the circumstances.

The workshop underscored the need for digital publishers to balance audience growth with credible journalism, innovative revenue generation and sustainable business practices.

Angele Emerges as Director of Venue Management in Delta APC Campaign Council

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

…Set for inauguration October 22 in Asaba
The Delta State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, has emerged as the Director of Venue Management in the Delta State All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council, in recognition of his political contributions, party loyalty and commitment to strengthening the party’s structure in the state.
Angele’s appointment places him in a strategic position within the campaign council, where effective venue management and coordination will be crucial to the successful execution of the party’s campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Commissioner, who has remained actively involved in the political activities of the APC in the state, is regarded as one of the party’s committed stakeholders whose contributions have helped sustain its grassroots presence and mobilisation efforts.
His emergence is expected to bring his organisational experience, political network and administrative capacity to bear on the council’s activities, particularly in ensuring the effective preparation and coordination of venues for campaign rallies, political engagements and other party programmes across the state.
As Director of Venue Management, Angele is expected to work closely with other members of the campaign council to facilitate the smooth conduct of campaign events, ensure adequate logistical arrangements and promote effective coordination among relevant committees.
His appointment also underscores the importance of experienced party leaders and stakeholders in building a coordinated campaign structure capable of advancing the APC’s political objectives in Delta State.
Angele, alongside the deputy directors representing the three senatorial districts of Delta North, Delta Central and Delta South, as well as other designated members of the campaign council, is scheduled to be inaugurated on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
The inauguration is expected to formally usher the appointees into their respective responsibilities and strengthen the party’s campaign machinery as it intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.
With Angele’s emergence and the inauguration of other members, the state APC is expected to consolidate its organisational framework, deepen coordination among its leadership and stakeholders, and enhance its readiness for the forthcoming electoral contest.
The development marks another significant step in the party’s preparations to mobilise its supporters, engage voters across the state and advance its political agenda ahead of the 2027 elections.

Delta Abure-Led Labour Party Reaffirms Alliance With AAC Ahead of 2027 Elections

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

The Abure-aligned faction of the Labour Party in Delta State has reaffirmed its political alliance with the African Action Congress (AAC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that its endorsement of the party’s governorship candidate, Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, and other AAC candidates remains valid.

The state chapter, led by Hon. Okwuokei Vincent Ikechukwu, made the position known in a press statement in which it disowned a social media publication purportedly seeking to discredit the alliance and its endorsement of AAC candidates.

The faction said the publication did not reflect its official position, describing it as unauthorised and capable of creating confusion among party members, supporters and the general public.

It maintained that the decision to work with the AAC was deliberate and formed part of its political strategy for the 2027 elections.

According to the statement, the Labour Party structure aligned with Barr. Julius Abure in Delta State is committed to collaborating with the AAC to build what it described as a viable political alternative capable of challenging the existing political order.
The faction also reaffirmed its loyalty to Abure and the leadership structure recognised by its members, urging the public to distinguish between authorised communications from its leadership and publications issued without its approval.

It further stated that the alliance was intended to mobilise support for AAC candidates contesting the governorship, National Assembly and Delta State House of Assembly elections.

The statement added that the faction would continue to engage with like-minded political stakeholders, stressing that misinformation and political controversies would not distract it from its preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The Abure-aligned faction also urged its members, support groups, youth organisations, market women and campaign volunteers to remain calm and seek clarification from its recognised leadership whenever conflicting information emerged.

It called on political stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid circulating unverified claims capable of generating confusion within the state’s political landscape.

The statement also asserted that the Abure-aligned structure had no legal political link with the faction associated with Senator Nenadi Usman, claiming that the latter had no political structure in Delta State.

Reaffirming its position, the faction said its alliance with the AAC and support for Eshor and other AAC candidates would be pursued through lawful, peaceful and democratic means.

The statement was signed by Okwuokei Vincent Ikechukwu, state chairman of the Labour Party (Abure faction), Delta State Chapter, on behalf of the State Executive Committee.

Eshor Unveils Development Agenda, Pledges Open-Door Governance for Delta State

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has unveiled key components of his proposed development manifesto, outlining plans for open-door governance, infrastructure development, inclusive representation, security and economic empowerment across Delta State.

Eshor presented the policy framework to journalists in Asaba yesterday, saying his proposed agenda, tagged “ESHOR FOR DELTA,” would focus on accountability, grassroots engagement, equitable development and expanded economic opportunities for residents.

The candidate said he would prioritise regular consultations with traditional rulers, youth organisations, women, farmers, professionals and community leaders to ensure that the concerns and aspirations of Deltans inform his proposed legislative and governance activities.

He pledged to institutionalise town hall meetings, maintain accessible offices and engage stakeholders across the state’s 25 local government areas to strengthen communication between elected representatives and the electorate.

According to Eshor, restoring public confidence in leadership requires honesty, transparency, accountability and measurable results. He added that his engineering background would guide his pursuit of practical and achievable development priorities.

He also promised to advocate projects with demonstrable benefits and promote effective oversight to ensure that public resources and government interventions deliver value to the people

Under his proposed Open-Door Policy, Eshor pledged to establish accessible communication channels, maintain functional liaison offices across the three senatorial districts and undertake regular community visits to enable residents to present their concerns, ideas and expectations.

He said sustained engagement with Deltans would help bridge the gap between elected representatives and the people, while ensuring that development priorities reflect the actual needs of communities.

On infrastructure, the AAC candidate identified roads, healthcare facilities, schools, water supply, electricity, the blue economy and digital connectivity as key priorities for improving living standards and stimulating economic activities.

He pledged to deploy his technical expertise and maritime experience to advocate sustainable blue economy initiatives, infrastructure projects, stronger development partnerships and a more equitable distribution of public facilities across Delta State.

Eshor maintained that improved infrastructure would enhance access to essential services while creating opportunities for commerce, education, employment and broader social development.

He stressed that development projects should be guided by the needs of communities and their potential to improve residents’ livelihoods.

On inclusive governance, Eshor promised to advocate fair representation and development opportunities for communities across the state, with particular attention to young people, women, farmers, artisans, persons with disabilities and small business owners.

He said legislative deliberations and development planning should take account of the interests of all constituents, irrespective of age, gender, background or social standing.

The candidate added that equitable governance should ensure that no community or vulnerable group is excluded from development opportunities and access to public services.

Addressing security and social welfare, Eshor pledged to support stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents to improve community safety and prevent conflicts.

He also promised to advocate peace-building initiatives, constructive youth engagement and welfare interventions for vulnerable members of society.

According to him, addressing the needs of disadvantaged groups and promoting peaceful coexistence would contribute to safer and more stable communities.

Another component of the ESHOR FOR DELTA framework, titled Empowerment through Education and Enterprise, focuses on skills acquisition, vocational training, information and communication technology education, digital literacy, entrepreneurship and support for small businesses.

Eshor said he would advocate expanded educational and employment opportunities, particularly for young people and women, while promoting partnerships to support innovation, job creation and enterprise development.

“Empowering individuals to build sustainable livelihoods would help reduce economic vulnerability and strengthen the constituency’s long-term development prospects,” he said.

He added that equipping residents with relevant skills and supporting small businesses would help expand economic opportunities and improve household livelihoods.

ACNPN Mourns Uduaghan, Says Support for Community Journalism Will Endure

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, has mourned the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as a benefactor and friend whose support for community journalism would remain an enduring part of his legacy.

The association, in a condolence statement signed by its State Chairman, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom, and State Secretary, Comrade Alaska Ekele, said Uduaghan would be remembered for his contributions to the development of Delta State, as well as his generosity, compassion and commitment to supporting grassroots media practitioners.

According to the association, the former governor understood the critical role community newspapers play in informing the public, promoting grassroots development and bridging the communication gap between government and local communities.

It noted that community newspaper publishers benefited from monthly support and patronage during Uduaghan’s administration, a gesture it said helped sustain their operations and strengthen their contributions to public enlightenment and democratic development.

“Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan was more than a governor to community newspaper publishers in Delta State. He was a pillar, a benefactor and a friend who understood the value of our profession,” the association stated.

The ACNPN added that his relationship with media practitioners was characterised by encouragement, accessibility and recognition of the press as an important institution in society.

It stressed that Uduaghan’s legacy extended beyond government policies and infrastructure projects to include his support for community journalism and his appreciation of the role of grassroots media in promoting accountability, public awareness and social development.

The association said community newspaper publishers would continue to cherish the former governor’s kindness and goodwill, noting that his contributions helped strengthen the practice of community journalism in Delta State.

“Today, we mourn a man whose support strengthened community newspaper publishing in Delta State. We deeply miss him, but we will continue to cherish his kindness, commitment to public service and enduring legacy,” the statement added.

The association further described Uduaghan as a leader whose impact on the media community would not be forgotten, saying his service to the people and goodwill towards community journalists would continue to speak for him.

“Your Excellency, your earthly journey has ended, but the impact of your service and goodwill towards community journalism will continue to speak for you. You served your people with distinction and left memories that will remain with us.

“Farewell to our dear benefactor, friend and the people’s governor. Your contributions to community journalism will never be forgotten,” the statement read.

The ACNPN Delta State Council prayed for the peaceful repose of the former governor’s soul and asked God to grant his family, friends, associates, the government and people of Delta State, and the journalism community the strength to bear the loss.

“May the soul of His Excellency, Dr. Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the association concluded.

DOPF 6th Lecture Series: Umahi Joins Panel as Prof. Emina Accepts to Moderate Discussion

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced the participation of legal practitioner, Godswill O. Umahi, Esq., as a panelist at its 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series, while renowned academic, Professor Kemi Anthony Emina, OdiEga, has accepted to moderate the panel discussion scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, in Asaba, Delta State.

The conference and lecture series, themed “Democracy Under Pressure: Electoral Integrity, Security Challenges, and Media Accountability,” will hold at David’s Event Centre, GRA, Asaba, and is expected to bring together media practitioners, academics, policymakers, legal experts, and other stakeholders to examine critical issues affecting Nigeria’s democracy and the media’s responsibility in safeguarding democratic values.

The Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, is expected to grace the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour.

In a statement on Sunday, the Chairman of the DOPF Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series Planning Committee, Deacon Chijioke Williams Ugbolue, and the Secretary, Comrade Josephine Omodior, said Umahi’s participation would enrich the panel discussion with his legal expertise and perspectives on data privacy, regulatory compliance, artificial intelligence, technology law, and the rule of law.

They noted that his contributions would be particularly relevant to examining how these issues intersect with electoral integrity, public accountability, digital communication, and the evolving responsibilities of online publishers.

A legal practitioner with over a decade of experience, Umahi has built a litigation practice spanning land, contract, criminal, and general civil matters.

His specialist knowledge includes global data privacy and retention, supported by professional certifications in Artificial Intelligence, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and Business Startup Management.

Beyond legal practice, Umahi contributes to public discourse by offering legal and policy perspectives on national issues, with particular interest in law, technology, and governance.

His commitment to making complex legal developments accessible to the public is expected to provide valuable insights into the legal and ethical questions confronting digital publishers in an increasingly technology-driven information environment.

Meanwhile, Professor Emina’s acceptance to moderate the panel discussion brings considerable academic, journalistic, broadcasting, and public communication experience to the conference.

A distinguished philosopher, scholar, broadcaster, journalist, and community leader, Professor Emina has developed a career defined by intellectual engagement, public service, and a commitment to human development.

Prof. Emina principal academic interests centre on Development Philosophy and African Metaphysics, through which he examines philosophical and developmental challenges confronting Africa and humanity.

He was among the pioneer staff of the Delta Printing and Publishing Company Ltd., publishers of The Pointer newspaper, before broadening his professional experience through service with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Emina also served as Worldwide President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association and was an active member of the university’s Governing Council. He currently chairs the Board of UI Ventures Ltd. His contributions to scholarship, leadership, and community development have earned him several honours, including the traditional title of OdiEga of Ebu.

His background in journalism, broadcasting, philosophy, and institutional leadership is expected to contribute to a balanced and intellectually engaging discussion on electoral credibility, security challenges, and the media’s accountability to the public in a democracy under pressure.

The DOPF 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series is expected to provide a platform for robust intellectual engagement on the challenges confronting Nigeria’s democracy and media industry.

Through the event, the Forum seeks to promote informed public discourse, strengthen professional standards among online publishers, and encourage greater media accountability at a time when electoral integrity, national security, misinformation, and public trust remain critical issues in the country’s democratic development.

Tompolo Mourns Uduaghan, Recalls Former Governor’s Role During Niger Delta Amnesty Era

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Hill Nigeria

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October 20, 2026

High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, has expressed sadness over the reported death of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan.

Tompolo, in a condolence message signed by his Media Consultant, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, on Monday, October 19, 2026, said he received the news of the former governor’s death with profound sadness, noting that it was an unexpected development.

The Ijaw leader recalled Uduaghan’s involvement in efforts to address militancy in the Niger Delta, particularly his support for the Presidential Amnesty Programme and pipeline surveillance arrangements during the administrations of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to Tompolo, the former governor’s role during that period remains a significant part of the history of engagements aimed at addressing unrest and promoting stability in the oil-producing region.

He said Uduaghan would be greatly missed, extending his condolences to the bereaved family, political associates and others affected by the loss.

Tompolo prayed that God would grant the family and all those mourning the former governor the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.

DOPF 6th Lecture Series: Umahi Joins Panel as Prof. Emina Accepts to Moderate Discussion

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Hill Nigeria

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October 19, 2026