The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced plans for its 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series, with media professionals, government officials, political leaders, lawmakers, security chiefs, academics, business leaders and other stakeholders expected to converge in Asaba, Delta State.
The conference, scheduled for October 21, 2026, at David’s Event Centre, GRA, Asaba, will commence at 11:00 a.m. The event is themed, “Democracy Under Pressure: Electoral Integrity, Security Challenges and Media Accountability in Nigeria.”
In a joint statement, the Chairman of the 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series Planning Committee, Dn. Chijioke Williams Ugbolue, and the Secretary, Comr. Josephine Omodior, said the theme was selected to stimulate informed and constructive engagement on issues central to democratic governance in Nigeria.
The group noted that the conference would examine pressures confronting democratic institutions, the integrity and credibility of electoral processes, emerging security challenges and the evolving responsibilities of the media in an increasingly complex information environment.
The media, particularly digital and online platforms, according to the Forum, plays a critical role in shaping public discourse, informing citizens, promoting accountability and providing platforms for competing perspectives.
“There is need for professionalism, accuracy, ethical journalism and responsible use of digital media, particularly amid growing concerns over misinformation and disinformation.”
“The conference is also expected to examine the relationship between electoral processes, security and media reporting, including political communication, public trust and the safety and professional responsibilities of journalists,” the Forum said in a statement.
According to the organisers, preparations are in top gear to make the 2026 edition one of the major gatherings of online publishers and journalists in Delta State.
Participation is expected from government officials, political leaders, lawmakers, politicians, academics, captains of industry, the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), other security agencies and the nation’s electoral umpire.
“The broad spectrum of participants was intended to provide a multi-sectoral platform for the issues raised by the theme to be examined from professional, political, academic, security and institutional perspectives.”
“Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honour, while a professional and politician has been scheduled to chair the occasion.
The Planning Committee also disclosed that a prominent academician had been selected as the Distinguished Guest Lecturer for the 6th Annual Lecture.
DOPF, a forum of online publishers and media practitioners, has continued to provide platforms for professional engagement on issues of public interest, including media responsibility, democratic governance, security and development.”
The organisers said the 2026 conference was designed not merely as an annual media gathering but as a major convergence of ideas, expertise and institutional perspectives at a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic development.
