As preparations gradually gather momentum for Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Warri Chapel, has intensified efforts to strengthen professional journalism by organizing a specialized training programme for media practitioners.
The capacity-building workshop, themed “Strengthening Professional Journalism for Credible Election Coverage,” is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Main Hall of the Government House Annex, Warri.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade John Glover, and the Secretary, Comrade Ogheneruona Oyibo, the union said the initiative is aimed at equipping journalists with the knowledge and skills required to deliver accurate, ethical and balanced coverage of electoral processes ahead of the 2027 polls.
According to the statement, the training will commence at 11:00 a.m., with the General Manager of DBS Warri, Pastor Malcolm Oteri, expected to declare the workshop open. Renowned engineer and public affairs commentator, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, will deliver the keynote address.
The organisers disclosed that respected media professionals and resource persons, including Dr. Godwin Orhadahwe, Mr. Linus Chima, seasoned broadcasters and a representative of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), will facilitate sessions on election reporting ethics, fact-checking, misinformation management, conflict-sensitive journalism and best practices in democratic reporting.
The Chapel noted that the media remains a critical pillar in the democratic process and that journalists must be adequately prepared to navigate the complexities associated with election coverage in an increasingly dynamic information environment.
“As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 General Elections, the responsibility placed on journalists becomes even more significant. Credible elections require credible information, and that begins with well-trained professionals who understand the ethics and demands of the journalism profession,” the statement said.
The NUJ DBS Warri Chapel emphasized that election reporting goes beyond merely covering campaign activities and election day events, stressing that journalists must uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity and professionalism at all times.
It added that the training is designed to provide practical tools that will help journalists combat misinformation, verify facts, report responsibly and contribute to peaceful democratic participation through balanced and factual reportage.
The Chapel further reaffirmed its commitment to continuous professional development, describing the workshop as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that journalists remain agents of truth, accountability and public trust.
“The credibility of elections is often shaped by the quality of information available to citizens. Through this initiative, we are investing in the professional growth of journalists to ensure that the public receives timely, accurate and responsible information throughout the electoral process,” the statement added.
The union expressed confidence that the programme would significantly enhance journalists’ preparedness for the 2027 electoral cycle while strengthening public confidence in the media’s role in safeguarding democracy.
It also called on journalists from print, broadcast and digital media organizations across Delta State and beyond to take advantage of the opportunity by actively participating in the training programme.