GOCOP calls for balanced regulatory framework for digital content in Nigeria
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has advocated for a balanced regulatory framework for digital content produced by Nigerian creatives.
The Deputy General Secretary of the Guild, Olumide Iyanda, made this appeal on Thursday while delivering a goodwill message at the opening ceremony of the 4th Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference (NDCRC) organised by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) in Lagos.
The theme of the two-day conference is “Film and Video Regulation in the Digital Age: Balancing Creativity and Responsibility.”
Mr Iyanda extended GOCOP’s commendation to the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, for her support of the NFVCB under the leadership of Dr Shaibu Husseini.
According to him, the conference not only serves as a tribute to the visionary contributions of the late Peace Anyiam-Osigwe but also as an essential forum for collaboration, learning, and strategic efforts to shape the future of digital content responsibly.
“The NFVCB’s commitment to creating a balanced regulatory framework that respects creativity while upholding societal values is commendable and deeply aligns with our mission at GOCOP, which was established to promote professionalism among online publishers and uphold the ethical standards of journalism in the digital space,” Iyanda said.
As a member of the Nigeria Press Organisation (NPO) and one of the driving forces behind the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC), also known as the Media Ombudsman, GOCOP plays a pivotal role in ensuring that online publications maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism, thereby contributing positively to Nigeria’s media landscape.
“The legacy of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe is a reminder to us all of the transformative power of content that respects cultural heritage and inspires positive change,” he added.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director of the NFVCB, Dr Husseini, stated: “As we gather to exchange ideas, forge new partnerships, and chart a course for Nigeria’s digital content regulation future, I want to emphasise the importance of collaboration and cooperation in our shared goal of promoting a vibrant and responsible creative sector.
“The whole idea of the digital content regulation conference was named after the late iconic writer, filmmaker, and producer, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, a move I must credit my predecessor, Alhaji Adedayo Thomas.”
He highlighted that, given the industry’s power to shape minds and influence culture, stakeholders needed to balance artistic expression with sensitivity and respect for their audiences.
“By doing so, we are not only upholding the integrity of our industry but also contributing to a more informed and empathetic society,” Husseini remarked.
In her keynote address, Founder of EbonyLife Group, Mo Abudu, stressed the importance of changing Africa’s narrative through content.
“As creatives, we must understand that with great power comes great responsibility. We must balance our creative freedom with the need to protect our audiences, particularly children, from harmful or inappropriate content.
“We have the power to change the narrative about Africa through content. We must create stories that resonate with global audiences, stories that showcase our unique perspectives and experiences as Africans,” she noted.
Hannatu Musawa, represented by the General Manager of the National Theatre, Tola Akerele, commended the NFVCB for organising the conference.
“I commend the NFVCB for hosting this conference, which serves as a vital platform for discussing pressing issues in the digital space.
“It’s a great opportunity for stakeholders to come together and explore ways to promote the growth and development of Nigeria’s creative industry,” Musawa said.
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