DOPF Advocates Digital Storytelling to Boost Women’s Visibility

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 International Women’s Day 2026.

The event took place on Thursday, at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba and brought together women from government agencies, professional associations, civil society organisations and the media.

With the theme, “Give to Gain: Empowering Women Through Digital Storytelling,” the celebration focused on how digital platforms can help amplify women’s voices and create new opportunities. Delivering the keynote address, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Patricia Gbemudu, spoke on the powerful role digital storytelling plays in giving women greater visibility.

She explained that the #GiveToGain concept highlights the importance of women and institutions intentionally supporting one another. According to her, telling stories through digital platforms can help women share their experiences, preserve their journeys and build the confidence needed to access broader opportunities.

“Empowering women through digital storytelling requires deliberate effort. Online media practitioners must intentionally create platforms where women’s voices can be heard,” she said.

Gbemudu also urged women to make better use of digital platforms to promote their talents, skills and entrepreneurial ventures, noting that online visibility can open doors in business, leadership and public engagement. She encouraged women to freely share their stories and experiences.

In her goodwill message, the Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Tracy Omamode Ikolomi, described storytelling as a powerful tool that can shape public opinion and drive social change.

Ikolomi praised the Delta Online Publishers Forum for its continued commitment to responsible digital journalism and its role in shaping positive public attitudes. She added that sharing women’s achievements and experiences can inspire confidence, promote inclusiveness and encourage more women to participate in leadership and national development.

Also speaking, the State President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Margaret Jeku Amuyiwa, represented by the council’s secretary, Nzemeka Juniana, emphasised the need for continued investment in the education and development of the girl-child. She commended the resilience and contributions of women across Delta State and Nigeria, stressing that empowering women is vital for building stronger families and communities.

Amuyiwa further encouraged women to support one another through mentorship, unity and collective advocacy.

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Delta State Chapter, Sonia Unobunjo, also commended DOPF for organising the event. She described the #GiveToGain theme as timely, noting that real progress happens when individuals and institutions intentionally invest in the growth and advancement of others, especially women and girls.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Secretary of the organising committee, Josephine Omodior, said the theme reflects the forum’s belief in the power of storytelling to challenge stereotypes and highlight both the achievements and challenges faced by women.

Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, applauded members of the forum and the organising committee for successfully hosting the programme. He noted that the growing number of female journalists and publishers within the forum makes such initiatives even more significant.

Enebeli also appreciated the presence of representatives from government agencies and women’s organisations, assuring that the forum will continue to support initiatives that promote gender inclusion and social development through responsible digital journalism.