Speakers at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration organised by the Delta Online Publishers Forum have emphasized the importance of digital storytelling in empowering women and promoting societal development.
Delivering the keynote address, the guest speaker, Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu, said when individuals give their voices, time, platforms and support to others, society benefits greatly. She noted that digital storytelling provides visibility for women who are making significant contributions in sectors such as business, education, healthcare, agriculture and community development but often go unnoticed.
Gbemudu explained that documenting women’s experiences digitally helps preserve knowledge for future generations and also creates opportunities for mentorship, partnerships and economic growth. She therefore urged media practitioners, organizations and professionals to intentionally provide platforms, training and mentorship that will enable women to share their stories and maximize digital opportunities.
In her goodwill message, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, described the theme of the event, “Give to Gain,” as a reminder that investing in women through education, mentorship and opportunities leads to stronger communities and sustainable development. She commended the Delta Online Publishers Forum for using digital media to promote gender equality and amplify the voices of women.
Also speaking, the Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs. Ikolomi Tracy, highlighted storytelling as a powerful tool for shaping public perception and inspiring social change. She noted that empowering women through storytelling encourages inclusiveness and greater participation of women in leadership and national development.
Also speaking, 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, emphasised 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, stressing that empowering women remains a critical step toward building stronger families, communities and societies.
She noted that every opportunity given to a woman represents an investment in national development, urging 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 rather than undermine themselves, stressing the need for unity, mentorship and collective advocacy among women
The speakers collectively called on media professionals, leaders and organizations to invest in digital literacy, create platforms for women’s voices and support initiatives that promote gender equality, noting that when women are empowered, society as a whole progresses.
Earlier, in an address read by the Secretary of the Organising Committee for the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration, Mrs Josephine Omodion, a call was made for stronger support and collaboration in empowering women through digital storytelling
She noted that the event aligns with the global theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “Give To Gain,” which emphasises the importance of collective support and contributions toward advancing the cause of women.
According to her, the forum adopted the theme “Give to Gain: Empowering Women through Digital Storytelling,” highlighting the important role digital media plays in amplifying women’s voices, challenging stereotypes and showcasing the achievements and challenges faced by women in society.
Omodion explained that the Give To Gain campaign encourages individuals, organisations and communities to contribute through mentorship, knowledge sharing, advocacy, visibility, resources and time to uplift women and girls.
She also expressed appreciation to the guest speaker, Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), whose experience in journalism and women’s development is expected to enrich the discussions.
While stressing the importance of women empowerment, she noted that empowering women is not only a moral obligation but also a critical step toward sustainable development.
She further urged government institutions, community leaders, civil society organisations and development partners to work together to advance the goals of the campaign.
Omodion emphasised the role of the media in shaping narratives and promoting social change, adding that responsible journalism can help highlight issues affecting women and inspire meaningful action.
She concluded by encouraging participants to embrace a culture of generosity, collaboration and empowerment, noting that “when women rise, society rises.”
