Condolences have been coming in since the death of veteran journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo. Colleagues, professional groups, and friends call him a dedicated journalist who helped grow Nigeria’s media industry.
Mr Oladipo died on Tuesday in Lagos. He was 56 years old.
One person who has expressed sorrow is S.K. Usman, a retired brigadier general and former Director of Army Public Relations. He called Mr Oladipo a close friend and a reliable professional.
In a condolence message released on Wednesday, Mr Usman said losing Mr Oladipo is especially hard for him due to their long friendship. He described the late journalist as wise, warm, and honest, with a deep understanding of journalism and the digital media changes.
Mr Oladipo was a former president of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP). He led the group from 2017 to 2021, which Mr Usman noted was a key time for online publishing in Nigeria.
According to Mr Usman, Mr Oladipo used his skills and leadership to strengthen GOCOP, promote professionalism, and encourage teamwork among online publishers.
“Dotun was not just an excellent journalist and publisher, but also a good friend and wise man. He understood journalism and the changing digital media world well. He was one of those who saw how important online media was in Nigeria and helped it grow. His work with GOCOP and online journalism will always be part of his legacy,” Mr Usman said.
He added that his bond with Mr Oladipo went beyond work. “While I was Director of Army Public Relations, he was always supportive and professional. He understood the duties of public communication and the demands of journalism,” he said.
Mr Usman noted that their friendship continued after he left the Nigerian Army. Mr Oladipo remained a trusted colleague, always ready to share his thoughts and give good advice.
He said Mr Oladipo's love for journalism, commitment to quality, and support for a strong online media industry will be missed.
Mr Oladipo's death has also led to tributes from major media organizations. The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria called him a dedicated advocate for press freedom and a reliable member of the group.
IPI Nigeria said Mr Oladipo was named chairman of its Programmes Committee in 2024 and was deeply involved in its work, including planning annual meetings and conferences.
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers also said his passing is a loss for the organization and Nigeria's media community. GOCOP President Danlami Nmodu stated that Mr Oladipo was key in developing the guild during his four years in charge.
“Dotun played an important role in GOCOP’s growth. He led the Guild for four years at a time when online publishers needed more recognition,” Mr Nmodu said.
Mr Oladipo started his journalism career in traditional media and worked with several Nigerian publications, including Newswatch, PUNCH, Nigerian Compass, Nigerian Tribune and The Sun. He later founded The Eagle Online, where he served as publisher.
His career lasted nearly 30 years and included roles in journalism, editing, publishing, and leadership in media organizations.
President Bola Tinubu also mourned Mr Oladipo, calling his death a big loss for Nigeria's media and the country itself. The president stated that the late journalist’s contributions to political journalism and digital media will not be forgotten.
Mr Oladipo's passing has left his family, colleagues at The Eagle Online, and the Nigerian media community grieving the loss of a journalist who dedicated decades to both traditional and digital news.
Mr Usman prayed that God would give the deceased peace and comfort to his family and all who mourn him.
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