The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), a coalition of professional journalists, editors, and media entrepreneurs, has announced plans to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day with a focus on journalism’s role in promoting peace and preventing conflict.
In a statement released on Saturday, May 2, 2026, by the Chairman of the planning committee, Julius Oweh, and Secretary, Inneh-Ozah Barth, the forum disclosed that the event will take place on Wednesday, May 6, at the DOPF Secretariat near St. Patrick’s College in Asaba, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Although World Press Freedom Day is globally observed on May 3, the forum explained that the event was rescheduled to May 6 to allow for broader participation from stakeholders within and beyond Delta State.
The highlight of the event will be a keynote lecture by Dr. Gideon Uduchukwu Isika of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.
His presentation, titled “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” aligns with this year’s global theme, which emphasizes the media’s responsibility in shaping a peaceful future.
World Press Freedom Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation from UNESCO’s General Conference in 1991.
The observance traces its origin to the Windhoek Declaration, adopted by African journalists in Namibia in 1991, which called for a free, independent, and pluralistic press as a pillar of democracy and development.
Since then, May 3 has been dedicated annually to upholding press freedom, assessing its global state, defending media independence, and honoring journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The DOPF also announced that Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
The event is expected to draw media professionals, academics, and practitioners from across the region.
According to the forum, the commemoration will serve not only to celebrate the media as the Fourth Estate but also to deepen public awareness of its critical role in governance, accountability, and democratic development.
It added that the gathering will provide an avenue to reinforce ethical journalism, encourage responsible reporting, and strengthen collaboration among media stakeholders in advancing peace, unity, and sustainable development.
