By BONIFACE AKARAH

Former Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General S.K. Usman (rtd), has mourned the death of his friend and former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Dotun Oladipo.

Oladipo, publisher of The Eagle Online, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the age of 56.

Usman, in a condolence message, described the late journalist and publisher as an accomplished professional, dependable friend and man of wisdom, warmth and integrity.

He extended his condolences to Oladipo’s family, the leadership and members of GOCOP, the management and staff of The Eagle Online, as well as journalists and the wider Nigerian media community.

“Dotun was not only an accomplished journalist and publisher, but also a great friend, dependable professional and a man of considerable wisdom, warmth and integrity,” Usman said.

He said Oladipo had a deep understanding of journalism, publishing and the changing digital media environment, adding that he was among those who recognised the growing importance of online media in Nigeria and contributed to its professional development.

Oladipo served as GOCOP President from 2017 to 2021, a period Usman described as formative in the growth of online publishing in the country.

“Through his dedication, experience and commitment, he contributed significantly to strengthening the Guild, promoting professionalism and fostering greater cooperation among online publishers,” Usman said.

He said Oladipo’s contribution to GOCOP and online journalism would remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Recalling their personal relationship, the retired Army spokesman said Oladipo’s death was particularly painful because of their longstanding friendship and professional association.

“For me personally, the passing of Dotun is particularly painful. He was a great friend and a trusted professional colleague who was always there with wise counsel, support and a reassuring word,” he said.

Usman said Oladipo remained supportive and professional during his tenure as Director Army Public Relations, demonstrating an understanding of the responsibilities of public communication and the demands of journalism.

He added that their relationship continued after his retirement from the Nigerian Army.

“Even after my retirement from! the Nigerian Army, he remained a valued friend and colleague, always willing to engage, share his thoughts and offer constructive advice. His friendship was genuine, and his wisdom, loyalty and professionalism were deeply appreciated,” Usman said.

According to him, Oladipo’s death had left a profound void in his family, GOCOP, the Nigerian media community and among journalists, publishers, public relations practitioners and other professionals whose lives he touched.

He said the late publisher’s experience, passion for journalism and commitment to professional excellence would be greatly missed.

Usman prayed for strength and fortitude for Oladipo’s family and all those mourning his death.

“I pray that Almighty God will grant his family and all of us who mourn him the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and grant the soul of my dear friend, Dotun Oladipo, eternal rest,” he said.

He added: “May his memory remain a blessing, and may his contributions to Nigerian journalism and online publishing continue to inspire generations of media professionals.”