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 for Thursday, October 8, 2026 in Lagos.
The Chairman of the 2026 Conference Planning Committee, Olumide Iyanda, made this known in a statement issued on Monday.
The Publicity Secretary, Kemi Yesufu, who endorsed the statement, said Iyanda revealed that this year’s conference is themed: “2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities.”
He said it comes at a defining moment for Nigeria as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the next general election.
He said the theme reflects 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 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 described Agbakoba as an outstanding choice to preside over the conference, noting that few Nigerians have contributed as consistently to the country’s democratic development and the advancement of the rule of law.
He said the Senior Advocate of Nigeria has, over several decades, earned national and international respect through his work as a lawyer, public intellectual, and advocate of institutional reforms, making him well suited to lead discussions on the responsibilities that accompany democratic governance.
He added that the 2026 conference is particularly significant as it marks the 10th edition of GOCOP’s annual gathering, which has become one of the country’s leading platforms for serious conversations 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 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 championed responsible journalism, media self-regulation, and professional excellence while contributing meaningfully to public discourse and democratic development in Nigeria.
