The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced plans to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day in Asaba, Delta State, with emphasis on the role of journalism in promoting peace and preventing conflict.

In a statement issued on Saturday, May 2, 2026, by the Secretary of the planning committee, Mr. Inneh-Ozah Barth, and its Chairman, Mr. Julius Oweh, the forum disclosed that the event will take place on Wednesday, May 6, at the DOPF Secretariat near St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, starting at 11:00am.

According to the organisers, although World Press Freedom Day is globally observed on May 3, the event was rescheduled to May 6 to allow for broader participation from stakeholders within and outside Delta State.

The statement further revealed that Dr. Gideon Uduchukwu Isika of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, will deliver the keynote lecture titled “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building.”

The theme aligns with this year’s global focus on shaping a peaceful future through responsible media practice.

World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation by UNESCO in 1991.

The observance traces its origin to the Windhoek Declaration, adopted by African journalists in Namibia in 1991, which advocated for a free, independent and pluralistic press as a foundation for democracy and development.

The DOPF noted that the event will feature Mr. Felix Ofou, Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, as Special Guest of Honour, alongside media professionals, scholars and other stakeholders expected to attend.

The forum added that the celebration will serve as a platform to honour the media as the Fourth Estate, deepen public understanding of the press’s role in governance and accountability, and promote ethical journalism and collaboration among media practitioners in advancing peace, unity and sustainable development.DOPF TO UNVEIL