By Mu’azu Hassan
Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has accepted to chair the 10th Annual Conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 8, 2026, in Lagos.
The Chairman of the 2026 Conference Planning Committee, Olumide Iyanda, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by the Guild's Publicity Secretary, Ms. Kemi Yesufu.
According to Iyanda, the conference, themed "2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities," comes at a critical period as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of Nigeria's next general elections.
He said the theme highlights the need for credible institutions, responsible political leadership, an informed electorate and a vigilant media to strengthen public confidence in the country's democratic process.
"The conference will provide a platform for thoughtful engagement on how government, political actors, the media and civil society can work together to promote transparency and protect the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process," Iyanda stated.
He described Agbakoba as an excellent choice to preside over the conference, citing his decades-long contributions to Nigeria's democratic development and the promotion of the rule of law.
According to him, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria has earned national and international recognition through his work as a lawyer, public intellectual and advocate of institutional reforms, making him well qualified to lead discussions on the responsibilities associated with democratic governance.
Iyanda also noted that the 2026 conference holds special significance as it marks the 10th edition of GOCOP's flagship annual event, which has evolved into one of Nigeria's foremost platforms for robust discussions on governance, public policy, media practice and national development.
He added that the landmark conference is expected to attract policymakers, political leaders, media professionals, civil society organisations, development partners and other stakeholders to deliberate on ways of strengthening transparency and public trust ahead of the 2027 elections.
Founded to promote ethical standards, professionalism and credibility in online journalism, GOCOP is an association of 127 leading online publishing organisations. Its membership comprises editors and senior journalists who distinguished themselves in print and broadcast journalism before establishing independent online news platforms.
Over the years, the Guild has remained at the forefront of promoting responsible journalism, media self-regulation and professional excellence, while making significant contributions to public discourse and the consolidation of Nigeria's democracy.
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