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The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has announced the passing of its former President, Dotun Oladipo, publisher of The Eagle Online, who died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at age 56.

Oladipo, who led the Guild from 2017 to 2021, was a foundational figure in Nigerian online journalism, helping to shape GOCOP during its formative years when digital publishing was still emerging as a major force in the country’s media landscape.

GOCOP President Danlami Nmodu described the loss as deeply painful for the Guild, praising Oladipo’s four-year leadership during a critical period of growth.

“Dotun played an important role in the development of GOCOP. He led the Guild for four years at a time when there was still a lot of work to be done to establish online publishers as an important part of the media. His contribution will always be remembered,” Nmodu said.

Before venturing into digital publishing, Oladipo built a distinguished career in traditional media, working as a journalist and editor before bringing that wealth of experience to The Eagle Online. He was among the pioneers who recognized the need for online publishers to unite, share ideas, and build a stronger professional community as Nigeria’s digital news space rapidly expanded.

Nmodu highlighted Oladipo’s unique understanding of both journalism and the publishing business. “Dotun understood journalism and he understood the business of publishing. He was passionate about the place of online media in Nigeria and he gave his time to the growth of the Guild. We are saddened by his passing.”

As President, Oladipo represented GOCOP at numerous engagements and worked alongside members as the organisation navigated the opportunities and challenges accompanying the explosive growth of online publishing, particularly as social media transformed how stories reached readers.

GOCOP remembered Oladipo as a colleague who maintained relationships with publishers across Nigeria and continued to take an active interest in the Guild’s affairs even after leaving office.

The Guild extended its condolences to Oladipo’s family, the management and staff of The Eagle Online, and his friends and colleagues in the media industry. GOCOP said it would work with his family and associates on plans to honour his memory.