In a decisive move to empower digital media practitioners and confront the financial challenges threatening independent journalism, the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA) has announced a one-day digital media workshop themed “Beyond the Barrier: The Economics of Press Freedom in the Digital Media Space.”
The workshop is scheduled to hold on July 26, 2025, in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, and will convene online publishers, bloggers, citizen journalists, media entrepreneurs, and policy stakeholders from across the state and beyond.
According to a statement signed by Comrade Abioye Tosin Lawrence, Chairman of the Workshop Planning Committee, the event seeks to tackle the pressing issue of media sustainability in Nigeria’s digital age.
“The economy is not friendly, especially for those striving to maintain the tenets of ethical journalism in this fast-paced digital age,” Lawrence said. “This workshop is a timely intervention to reposition digital media professionals toward brand building, sustainability, and ethical responsibility.”
The workshop will focus on five core areas, The economic impact of press freedom in the digital space, Sustainable monetization models for independent publishers, Brand building in an attention-deficit era, Digital ethics and responsibility and Amplifying community voices through credible journalism.
At its core, the workshop aims to draw attention to the link between press freedom and economic empowerment. Organisers argue that without financial sustainability, true editorial independence in digital journalism cannot be achieved.
Mukhtar Ajelogbon, OOPA Chairman, emphasised the need for a proactive shift among media practitioners.
“We must evolve from simply reacting to digital trends to actively shaping them. This workshop is not just about survival; it’s about dominance through innovation, ethics, and strategic thinking,” he said.
The event is expected to attract a cross-section of digital media stakeholders including industry experts, innovators, and resource persons who will offer practical insights on navigating the current economic climate while upholding journalistic integrity.
Further details on speakers, registration, and participation will be released in the coming days, according to the organising committee.
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