DOPF To Mark 2026 World Press Freedom Day May 6 In Asaba
THE Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced plans to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day on Wednesday, May 6, in Asaba, with a renewed focus on the role of journalism in conflict prevention and peace building.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 2, by the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Julius Oweh, and the Secretary, Mr. Inneh-Ozah Barth, the forum said the event will take place 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 observed on May 3, this year’s commemoration was shifted to May 6 to allow broader participation from stakeholders within and beyond Delta State.
According to the statement, communication scholar, Dr. Gideon Uduchukwu Isika of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, will deliver the keynote lecture titled “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building.” The topic aligns with the global theme, which highlights the media’s role in promoting 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. It is rooted in the Windhoek Declaration of 1991, a landmark document by African journalists in Namibia advocating a free, independent and pluralistic press as essential to democracy.
Since then, May 3 has been observed worldwide to uphold press freedom, assess its global state, defend media independence and honour journalists who died in the line of duty.
The DOPF said this year’s observance will also feature Mr. Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, as Special Guest of Honour. Media professionals, scholars and practitioners are expected to attend.
The forum noted that the gathering will deepen public appreciation of the media’s role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm and strengthen conversations around governance, accountability and democratic growth.
It added that the event will also reinforce ethical journalism, promote responsible reporting and encourage collaboration among stakeholders committed to peace, unity and sustainable development.
