Comrade Pat Gbemudu (far right) delivering a lecture while the Chairman of DOPF, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli (far left) and others look on during the celebration of Delta women by Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), parts of her activities marking International Women’s Day in Asaba.
By Ejiro Nesisa
The importance of women in the society cannot overemphasised as they are the engine room of every family. It is because of the importance of women to the society hence 8th March is declared annually and globally to celebrate them. Yes, it is a day globally declared to honour women’s achievements, advocate for gender equality, and promote women’s rights.
The day which was formalized in 1913, but officially adopted by the United Nations in 1975. On that day, campaigns, and seminars are held globally by individuals, groups, organizations such as religious organizations and the media especially in Nigeria to celebrate women on this special day. It was against this background that Delta Online Publishers Forum, the association of media practitioners called for strategic partnership for this year’s international women’s day celebration in the state, Delta.
To show the extent of the preparation of the body for the programme a press statement was issued to that effect. The body has advocated for stronger support for women through digital storytelling and media visibility as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day.
This auspicious occasion which took place on 11th March, 2026 at DOPF Secretariat in Asaba , the Delta State capital, drew participation from women representing government agencies, professional associations, civil society organisations and members of the media. The key note address was given by former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu where she highlighted the transformative power of digital storytelling in advancing women’s voices, visibility and opportunities. The theme of the programme which was: “Give to Gain: Empowering Women Through Digital Storytelling.” was properly marshaled by the presenters.
According to Gbemudu, the concept of “Give To Gain” underscores the need for intentional support among women and institutions, adding that storytelling through digital platforms could enhance women’s visibility, preserve experiences and build confidence for greater opportunities. She urged women to take advantage of digital tools and platforms to showcase their talents, skills and entrepreneurial efforts, adding that, online visibility could significantly expand opportunities for women in business, leadership and public engagement.
His words: “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 the media professionals also encouraged women not to shy away from sharing their personal and professional journeys, saying that such stories could inspire others and contribute to social change.
Her words: “Do not hide your story; your journey may inspire someone you have never met. Use digital tools to learn, share and grow,” She therefore called on leaders, organisations and development partners to invest more in platforms that amplify women’s voices. The participants in the program were not fed by the lectures of Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu but that the Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Comrade Mrs. Tracy Omamode Ikolomi. She let the participants to be aware storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for shaping public perception, preserving shared values and inspiring societal transformation.
Ikolomi commended the Delta Online Publishers Forum for its role in digital storytelling, saying that the organisation had continued to play a strategic role in influencing public attitudes, promoting responsible citizenship and amplifying voices that contribute to national development. She assured that the National Orientation Agency remained committed to promoting values that encourage equity, responsible communication and social cohesion.
Her words: “The focus on empowering women through storytelling is both timely and commendable. 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.”
The State President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Comrade Mrs. Margaret Jeku Amuyiwa, who was represented by the council’s secretary, Mrs. Nzemeka Juniana also added her voice to message. She stressed the importance of investing in the education and development of the girl-child. Amuyiwa praised the resilience and contributions of women in Delta State and across Nigeria, adding that empowering women remains a critical step towards building stronger families, communities and societies.
More faces of the participants during the celebration of Delta women by Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), parts of her activities marking International Women’s Day in Asaba.
According to her, every opportunity given to a woman represents an investment in national development and urged stakeholders to prioritise policies and initiatives that support women and protect the rights of the girl-child. The NCWS President also encouraged women to support one another and not to look down on themselves, adding that, there is need for unity, mentorship and collective advocacy among women.
The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Delta State Chapter, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, commended the Delta Online Publishers Forum for organising the event adding that “GiveTo Gain” as a theme was both inspiring and relevant in the scheme of things. She noted that meaningful progress in society occurs when individuals, institutions and communities deliberately invest in the advancement of others, particularly women and the girl-child. Unobunjo added that the media remains a powerful instrument for shaping narratives, influencing policy conversations and amplifying voices that might otherwise remain unheard.
She therefore urged journalists and digital publishers to continue telling impactful stories that expose barriers to gender equality while inspiring actions toward a more inclusive society. She noted that meaningful progress in society occurs when individuals, institutions and communities deliberately invest in the advancement of others, particularly women and the girl-child.
Earlier in her opening remarks, Secretary of the event’s organising committee, Mrs. Josephine Omodior, said the theme:”Give To Gain” reflects the forum’s belief in the power of storytelling to amplify voices, challenge stereotypes and highlight both the achievements and struggles of women in society. According to her, when people give support sincerely—whether through mentorship, opportunities or platforms—the impact multiplies and strengthens communities. On his part, the Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, commended members of the forum and the organising committee for successfully hosting the celebration, noting that the growing presence of female journalists and publishers within the forum made the event particularly significant.
Enebeli also appreciated representatives of government agencies, women organisations and other stakeholders who attended the programme, assuring that the forum would continue to support initiatives that promote gender inclusion and social development through responsible digital journalism.The event climaxed with entertainment and group photographs.