The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has called for stronger support for women through digital storytelling, media visibility and mentorship as part of activities marking the International Women’s Day 2026 in Delta State.
The event, held on March 11 at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, brought together women from government agencies, professional bodies, 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 expanding opportunities for leadership and entrepreneurship.
Gbemudu explained that the #GiveToGain concept encourages intentional support among women, institutions and media organisations, noting that digital platforms provide powerful tools for sharing experiences, preserving stories and building confidence.
“Empowering women through digital storytelling requires intentional giving. Online media practitioners must deliberately create space for women’s voices to be heard, while organisations should invest in training, mentorship and digital literacy programmes that equip women to tell their own stories,” she said.
She further urged women to take advantage of digital platforms to showcase their talents, skills and entrepreneurial efforts, stressing that online visibility can significantly expand opportunities for women in business, leadership and public engagement.
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IWD 2026: DOPF champions women’s voices through digital storytelling[/caption]
“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 a powerful instrument for shaping public perception, preserving shared values and inspiring social transformation.
Ikolomi commended DOPF for promoting responsible digital storytelling and influencing public attitudes through online journalism.
“When women’s experiences, achievements and challenges are shared, they inspire confidence, promote inclusiveness and encourage greater participation of women in leadership, community development and nation-building,” she said.
Also speaking, the Delta State President of the **National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Margaret Jeku Amuyiwa, represented by the council’s secretary Nzemeka Juniana, stressed the need to invest more in the education and development of the girl-child.
She praised the resilience and contributions of women across Nigeria and urged stakeholders to support policies and initiatives that protect women’s rights and promote their economic and social empowerment.
The chairperson of the **Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta chapter, Sonia Unobunjo, also commended the forum for organising the programme, describing the #GiveToGain theme as both timely and inspiring.
According to her, the media remains a powerful tool for shaping narratives, influencing policy debates and amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard.
She therefore urged journalists and digital publishers to continue telling impactful stories that highlight gender inequality while inspiring action toward a more inclusive society.
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 amplify voices, challenge stereotypes and highlight both the achievements and struggles of women.
According to her, sincere support through mentorship, opportunities and platforms can create ripple effects that strengthen families and communities.
In his closing remarks, 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 growing number of female journalists and publishers within the forum underscores the importance of promoting gender inclusion in digital media.
Enebeli also appreciated the presence of representatives from government agencies, women's organisations and other stakeholders, assuring that the forum would continue to support initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and social development through responsible digital journalism.
