By Cecilia Ogezi
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has offered key recommendations to the Federal Government on addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, economic hardship, and power deficit. These suggestions were made during its 8th annual conference, held at Reverton Hotel in Lokoja, Kogi State, from October 2nd to 3rd, 2024.
In its communiqué, GOCOP emphasized the persistent security issues affecting the nation’s growth and urged the government to decentralize security management, granting state governments greater control over local forces to improve responses to insecurity. The conference highlighted the need for community policing and increased funding for security agencies, while advocating for development programs targeting rural poverty and youth employment.
GOCOP also raised concerns about the worsening economic situation, noting that rising unemployment and poverty rates are exacerbating insecurity. The organization stressed the importance of addressing these issues through job creation and entrepreneurship support programs.
On the topic of Nigeria’s power deficit, GOCOP lamented that the nation continues to struggle with inadequate electricity supply, despite extensive reforms and investments. It recommended diversifying the energy mix, investing in renewable energy, and allowing greater private sector involvement in the power transmission network. The communiqué also highlighted the need for stable gas supply to power plants to ensure consistent electricity generation.
In addition, GOCOP called for the Federal Government to prioritize Nigeria’s transition to a digital economy, identifying inadequate broadband penetration and low digital literacy as major obstacles. The conference urged investments in digital infrastructure, improvements in internet reliability, and fostering digital skills among the population. GOCOP acknowledged the potential of fintech, e-commerce, and agritech in driving economic growth and job creation.
The two-day event was attended by notable figures, including Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Ambassador Mamman Yusuf, and Senator Liyel Imoke, with discussions on optimizing website visibility, generating revenue for online platforms, and leveraging digital marketing strategies.
As part of its corporate social responsibility efforts, GOCOP visited two orphanages in Lokoja, where donations of food and other items were made. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to ethical journalism and promoting the interests of online publishers in Nigeria.
