A former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr Olisa Agbakoba, will chair the 10th annual conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), scheduled for 8 October 2026 in Lagos.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Guild’s Publicity Secretary, Kemi Yesufu, the Chairman of the 2026 Conference Planning Committee, Olumide Iyanda, said this year’s conference, themed 2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities, comes at a critical period as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Iyanda said the theme underscores the importance of credible institutions, responsible political leadership, an informed electorate and a vigilant media in strengthening public confidence in the democratic process.
He said the conference would provide a platform for discussions on how government, political actors, the media and civil society can work together to promote transparency and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Describing Agbakoba as an ideal choice to chair the conference, Iyanda said the Senior Advocate of Nigeria has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development and the advancement of the rule of law.
He noted that Agbakoba has earned national and international recognition through his work as a lawyer, public intellectual and advocate of institutional reform, making him well placed to lead discussions on the responsibilities associated with democratic governance.
According to Iyanda, the 2026 conference is particularly significant as it marks the 10th edition of GOCOP’s annual gathering, which has become one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for discussions on governance, public policy, the media and national development.
Established to promote ethical standards, professionalism and credibility in online journalism, GOCOP is an association of 127 online publishing organisations. Its membership comprises editors and senior journalists who previously distinguished themselves in print and broadcast journalism before establishing independent online news platforms.
The Guild said it has continued to champion responsible journalism, media self-regulation and professional excellence while contributing to public discourse and democratic development in Nigeria.
