ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced plans to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day with a thematic focus on “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” underscoring the media’s critical role in shaping a stable and cohesive society.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 2, 2026, by its Chairman, Mr. Julius Oweh, and Secretary of the planning committee, Mr. Inneh-Ozah Barth, the forum disclosed that the event will hold on Wednesday, May 6, at the DOPF Secretariat near St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, beginning at 11:00am.
The organisers explained that although World Press Freedom Day is globally marked on May 3, the event was shifted to May 6 to enable wider participation of stakeholders across and beyond Delta State.
The statement noted that the keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Gideon Uduchukwu Isika of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, who will speak on the theme, “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” in line with ongoing global conversations on the role of responsible media in fostering peaceful societies.
World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation adopted at UNESCO’s 26th General Conference in 1991.
The observance traces its origin to the 1991 Windhoek Declaration by African journalists, which advocated a free, independent and pluralistic press as a pillar of democracy and development. Since then, May 3 has been set aside annually to promote press freedom, evaluate its state worldwide, defend media independence, and honour journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The DOPF also named Mr. Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, as Special Guest of Honour, alongside media professionals, scholars and practitioners expected to converge for the engagement.
The forum stated that the event would provide an avenue to deepen understanding of the media’s watchdog role, strengthen accountability in governance, and reinforce democratic ideals.
It added that the gathering would further promote ethical journalism, encourage responsible reporting, and enhance collaboration among media stakeholders in advancing peace, unity and sustainable development.
