DOPF Advocates Women Empowerment Through Digital Storytelling at 2026 International Women’s Day Event

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called for stronger support for women through digital storytelling and greater media visibility as part of activities marking the International Women’s Day 2026.

The event, held on March 11, 2026 at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, brought together women from government agencies, professional associations, civil society organisations and the media.

The celebration was themed “Give to Gain: Empowering Women Through Digital Storytelling.”

Delivering the keynote address, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Patricia Gbemudu, highlighted the transformative role of digital storytelling in amplifying women’s voices and creating new opportunities.

She explained that the concept of #GiveToGain emphasises the importance of intentional support among women and institutions.

According to her, storytelling through digital platforms can enhance women’s visibility, preserve personal experiences and build confidence for greater opportunities.

“Empowering women through digital storytelling requires intentional giving. Online media practitioners must deliberately create space for women’s voices to be heard,” she said.

Gbemudu urged women to leverage digital platforms to showcase their talents, skills and entrepreneurial activities, noting that online visibility can significantly expand opportunities in business, leadership and public engagement.

She also encouraged women not to hesitate in sharing their stories.

“Do not hide your story; your journey may inspire someone you have never met. Use digital tools to learn, share and grow,” she added.

In her goodwill message, the Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Tracy Omamode Ikolomi, described storytelling as one of the most powerful tools for shaping public perception and inspiring social change.

Ikolomi commended the Delta Online Publishers Forum for its consistent role in promoting responsible digital journalism and influencing public attitudes.

She noted that sharing women’s experiences and achievements helps inspire confidence, promote inclusiveness and encourage women’s participation in leadership and national development.

Also speaking, the State President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Margaret Jeku Amuyiwa, represented by the council’s secretary Nzemeka Juniana, stressed the need for sustained investment in the education and development of the girl-child.

She praised the resilience and contributions of women across Delta State and Nigeria, noting that empowering women is essential for building stronger families and communities.

Amuyiwa also encouraged women to support one another through mentorship, unity and collective advocacy.

The Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Delta State Chapter, Sonia Unobunjo, commended DOPF for organising the event.

She described the #GiveToGain theme as timely, noting that progress occurs when individuals and institutions intentionally invest in the advancement of others, especially women and girls.

Unobunjo also highlighted the media’s role in shaping narratives and influencing policy conversations.

“Journalists and digital publishers must continue telling impactful stories that expose barriers to gender equality while inspiring action toward a more inclusive society,” she said.

Earlier in her opening remarks, Secretary of the organising committee, Josephine Omodior, said the theme reflects the forum’s belief in the power of storytelling to challenge stereotypes and highlight both the achievements and struggles of women.

Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, commended members of the forum and the organising committee for successfully hosting the event.

He noted that the increasing participation of female journalists and publishers within the forum makes such initiatives particularly meaningful.

Enebeli also appreciated the presence of representatives from government agencies and women’s organisations, assuring that the forum would continue to support programmes that promote gender inclusion and social development through responsible digital journalism.