Delta to Host Broadcast Media Conference on Electoral Credibility, Fight Against Fake News ~ Truth Reporters

By Nelson Egware 

The Delta State Government, in partnership with media stakeholders, is set to host the second edition of the Delta Broadcast Media Conference as part of efforts to strengthen democratic governance, enhance public trust and promote credible electoral processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The conference, themed "The Broadcast Media as a Democratic Catalyst: Shaping Public Trust and Electoral Credibility in 2027," will hold on Tuesday at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Organisers said the conference is designed to examine the critical role of broadcast media in safeguarding democracy at a time when misinformation, disinformation, fake news and hate speech continue to pose significant threats to national cohesion and public confidence in democratic institutions.

The event is expected to bring together government officials, policymakers, media executives, broadcasters, regulators, security agencies, academics, development partners and civil society organisations to develop practical strategies for promoting accurate, ethical and responsible journalism.

According to the organisers, discussions will focus on strengthening the capacity of media professionals in fact-checking, digital verification, ethical reporting and responsible broadcasting, particularly in the build-up to the 2027 elections.

The conference, organised in collaboration with the Delta State Government and aligned with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's MORE Agenda, is also expected to deepen collaboration between government and the media to ensure timely, factual and people-centred information reaches communities across the state.

It will further provide a platform for the state government to reaffirm its commitment to transparency, accountability, peacebuilding and inclusive governance through direct engagement with key communication stakeholders.

The organisers noted that stronger partnerships between government and the media would improve public understanding of government policies, programmes and development initiatives, while reinforcing citizens' confidence in public institutions.

Media practitioners are also expected to benefit from knowledge-sharing sessions on global best practices in election reporting, ethical journalism and public communication, with the aim of strengthening professional standards within the broadcast industry.

The conference is expected to produce recommendations on combating fake news, promoting responsible journalism and preserving peace before, during and after the 2027 general elections.

Organisers described the event as a strategic investment in democracy, responsible broadcasting and sustainable development, urging government, the media and citizens to work together to protect the integrity of information and build a more transparent, peaceful and prosperous Delta State.