Retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, former Director of Army Public Relations, has described the late veteran journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo, as a dependable professional and trusted colleague.
Usman, in a condolence message on Wednesday, described Oladipo’s death as a painful loss to his family, the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) and the wider Nigerian media community.
Oladipo died on Tuesday in Lagos at the age of 56.
Usman described the deceased as an accomplished journalist who combined wisdom, warmth and integrity. He said Oladipo had a profound understanding of journalism, publishing and the evolving digital media environment, contributing significantly to the growth of online journalism in Nigeria.
The retired Army spokesman said Oladipo’s leadership of GOCOP came at a formative period in the development of online publishing in Nigeria.
According to him, Oladipo’s dedication and commitment helped strengthen the guild, promote professionalism and foster cooperation among online publishers.
Usman said Oladipo’s contributions to GOCOP and online journalism would remain an enduring part of his legacy.
“Dotun was a great friend and trusted professional colleague who was always there with wise counsel, support and a reassuring word,” he said.
He recalled that during his tenure as Director of Army Public Relations, Oladipo was consistently supportive, accessible and professional, demonstrating a deep understanding of public communication and journalism.
Usman added that even after his retirement from the Nigerian Army, Oladipo remained a valued friend and colleague, always willing to engage, share his thoughts and offer constructive advice.
He said Oladipo’s death had left a profound void among journalists, publishers, public relations practitioners and other professionals whose lives he touched.
The former Army spokesman said Oladipo’s passion for journalism, commitment to professional excellence and belief in a vibrant online media industry would be greatly missed.
Usman extended his condolences to Oladipo’s family, the President and members of GOCOP, the management and staff of The Eagle Online and the wider journalism community.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased’s family and other mourners the strength to bear the loss and grant Oladipo eternal rest.
“May his memory remain a blessing, and may his contributions to Nigerian journalism and online publishing continue to inspire generations of media professionals,” Usman said.
