Award-winning investigative journalist and Editor-in-Chief/COO of Premium Times, Musikilu Mojeed, has said that “great content is the key to survival in the media business.” He stated this during a lively panel session at Pinnacle Daily’s flagship lunch held in Abuja today.
The event, themed “The Economics of Media Business: Understanding Revenue Models and Profitability”, explored how quality journalism and smart business strategies can coexist in Nigeria’s fast-changing media landscape.
Mojeed, who also co-founded the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), urged the Pinnacle Daily team to embrace niche reporting, create distinct content, and avoid overdependence on advertising.
“No matter how compelling your journalism is, if it cannot meet basic financial needs, it won’t survive or gain recognition. Pinnacle Daily must know what it stands for. Good balancing is key, and with focus, this platform will go far,” he said.
He encouraged the team to innovate and operate differently from the crowd, stressing that creativity and strategic focus are vital for sustainability. Mojeed also announced that Premium Times is open to partnering with Pinnacle Daily, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration within the media industry.
Profitability and Credibility Must Go Hand in Hand
Drawing from more than two decades of experience, Mojeed emphasised that media organisations must first succeed as businesses before they can effectively serve their constitutional and social roles.
He advised journalists to explore diverse revenue streams such as sponsored content, digital products, and strategic partnerships, noting that profitability and credibility are inseparable.
“Your platform is your business. Every product or service you offer should be built with a sustainable mindset,” he said.
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Angela Agoawike, founder and principal partner of Omalicha Media Network Ltd and coordinator of the Journalism and Development Seminars Initiative (JADESI) in Abuja, shared practical advice on staff retention, salary management, and team building.
“Promise only what you can pay. It takes time to see results. Pinnacle must be patient, ensure journalists are paid consistently, and provide a platform that allows them to grow,” she advised.
She underscored the importance of structured training and mentoring, which help retain young talent even when salaries start small.
“Those recruited through this process stay loyal. While others may pay more, we offer experience, exposure, and a place to thrive,” she added.
ICPC Commends Pinnacle Daily’s Ethical Commitment
The highlight of the event was the official unveiling of Pinnacle Daily, a digital news platform positioned to merge high-quality journalism with innovative business strategies.
The launch attracted key industry and institutional representatives, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
ICPC Chairman Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, represented by Dr Anike Adeshina, praised Pinnacle Daily for its commitment to professionalism, integrity, and ethical reporting.
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Both Mojeed and Agoawike agreed that Pinnacle Daily must distinguish itself through impactful storytelling, consistent innovation, and sustainable business practices to stay relevant and profitable.
Mojeed concluded with a charge to the team: “You have a responsibility to succeed not only for yourselves but for the young professionals following in your footsteps. Sustainability and excellence must go hand in hand.”
Pinnacle Daily’s flagship launch marked a milestone for Nigeria’s digital media industry. With guidance from industry leaders like Mojeed and Agoawike, Pinnacle Daily has positioned itself as a bold, credible, and forward-thinking platform – one ready to redefine the economics of journalism in the digital age.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
