DOPF Calls For Greater Support For Women Through Digital Storytelling At 2026 IWD Celebration
THE Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called for stronger support for women through digital storytelling and increased media visibility as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day in Delta State.
The event, held on March 11, 2026, at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, brought together women from government agencies, professional bodies, civil society groups, and the media. This year’s theme was “Give to Gain: Empowering Women Through Digital Storytelling.”
Delivering the keynote address, former chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Patricia Gbemudu, highlighted the transformative power of digital storytelling in promoting women’s voices, visibility, and opportunities.
Gbemudu said the #GiveToGain message encourages intentional support among women, organisations, and institutions. She explained that digital storytelling helps preserve experiences, promote confidence, and open doors for women in leadership, business, and public service.
She also encouraged women to use digital tools to showcase their talents, entrepreneurship, and professional journeys, noting that online visibility plays a crucial role in expanding opportunities across sectors.
“Empowering women through digital storytelling requires intentional giving,” she said. “Media practitioners must create spaces for women’s voices, while organisations should invest in mentorship, training, and digital literacy programmes.”
In her goodwill message, the Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Comrade Tracy Omamode Ikolomi, described storytelling as a powerful tool for shaping public perception and inspiring social transformation. She commended DOPF for its role in promoting responsible digital communication and national development.
Also speaking, the State President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Comrade Margaret Jeku Amuyiwa, represented by the council’s secretary, Mrs. Nzemeka Juliana, stressed the importance of investing in the girl-child. She noted that empowering women contributes directly to building stronger families and communities.
The Chairperson of NAWOJ Delta, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, described the #GiveToGain theme as timely, adding that the media plays a critical role in shaping narratives and advancing gender equality. She urged journalists to continue telling impactful stories that highlight challenges facing women and inspire positive action.
Earlier, Secretary of the organising committee, Mrs. Josephine Omodior, said the theme reflects DOPF’s belief in the power of storytelling to challenge stereotypes, amplify voices, and highlight women’s achievements and struggles.
Chairman of DOPF, Emmanuel Enebeli, commended the organising committee and participating stakeholders, noting that the growing number of female journalists and publishers in the forum made this year’s celebration especially meaningful. He reaffirmed DOPF’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote gender inclusion, empowerment, and social development through responsible digital journalism.
The event featured entertainment sessions and group photographs.
