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ASABA, Delta State – The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) is set to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) with a call for strategic partnerships, aiming to harness the power of digital media to uplift women and girls across the state.

The event is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at No. 12 Uchenna Okolo Street, opposite St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Asaba. Veteran journalist and former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu, will be the Keynote Speaker for the occasion.

In a statement released by the forum, DOPF outlined that this year’s celebration will pivot on the theme: “Give to Gain: Empowering Women through Digital Storytelling.” This local theme aligns with the global IWD campaign “Give To Gain,” which carries the core message, “When we give, we gain.”

According to the forum, the initiative is designed to foster a culture of generosity and intentional collaboration to accelerate the advancement of women. It encourages individuals, organisations, and communities to contribute through mentorship, knowledge-sharing, advocacy, and financial support.

“The Give To Gain initiative highlights the importance of giving from the heart,” the statement noted. “Such acts create positive ripple effects that strengthen families, communities, and society at large.”

DOPF explained that the 2026 celebration will focus on several key priorities, including empowering women, supporting women-focused non-profit organisations, and amplifying the visibility of initiatives that challenge stereotypes, discrimination, and gender bias. The forum observed that International Women’s Day is evolving into one of the world’s largest giving platforms, providing a crucial opportunity to back organisations dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls.

To mark the day, DOPF will host a “Give To Gain” Impact Conference to recognise outstanding women and non-profits. This will be complemented by media advocacy campaigns across Delta-based digital platforms and public engagement initiatives aimed at encouraging grassroots support and collaboration with girl-child advocacy groups.

The forum stressed that the success of the campaign hinges on the involvement of a broad coalition of stakeholders, including government institutions, community leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners.

“Broader participation will inspire more Deltans to embrace a culture of giving and support the advancement of women and girls,” DOPF stated, adding a powerful closing thought: “When women rise, society rises.”

The statement was signed by Josephine Omodior, Secretary of the Committee for the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration.