Esther Nwafor, Yenagoa
Yesterday marked two years since the inauguration of the 9th National Executive Council (NEC) of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), ably led by our visionary President, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri.
With one year remaining in its constitutionally mandated three-year tenure, it is imperative that we take stock of our journey so far and share our story unfiltered, factual, and with clarity of purpose.
In a time when misinformation and malicious narratives often find traction on social media, particularly from elements intent on destabilizing the Ijaw struggle, it is our responsibility to set the record straight. Against formidable odds and inherited challenges the kind typical of any people-centered revolutionary movement the 9th NEC has delivered substantial gains. Below are highlights of key achievements commemorating our two years in office.
1. Strategic Engagements & Global Footprints
Immediately after assuming office, the 9th NEC undertook consultations with critical Ijaw leaders across the Niger Delta and beyond. These consultations were instrumental in unifying the Council and fostering a renewed sense of direction.
Importantly, IYC elevated its international presence, participating in landmark global forums.
A climate change summit in Accra, Ghana, hosted by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, where IYC presented the Ijaw position on environmental justice.
A UNEP workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, addressing the impact of marine plastic pollution on the Niger Delta.
Active representation at COP28 in Dubai (2023), where the IYC took the global stage to articulate the environmental and economic challenges confronting the Ijaw people.
2. Institutional Development & Governance
In a historic milestone, the Bayelsa State Government generously allocated land in Yenagoa for the construction of the Global IYC Secretariat. With architectural designs already completed, this marks the Council’s first tangible step toward establishing a permanent headquarters since its founding.
Additionally, the NEC constituted and funded a Constitution Review Committee to revise the long-standing Ofunama Constitution. This committee engaged zones and chapters nationwide, producing a comprehensive draft which has been adopted at the Odi constitution convention in 2024.
3. Commemorations & National Pride
The 9th NEC successfully hosted the 25th Anniversary of the Kaiama Declaration (Dec 9–11, 2023), a defining moment in Ijaw history. Activities included.
Ongoing Global Secretariat Building
Public lectures, awards night, and the unveiling of the Isaac Adaka Boro statue
Thanksgiving services, cultural parades, and processions across Yenagoa and Kaiama
4. Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation
The Council successfully resolved a lingering leadership crisis in the Eastern Zone, affirming Tamuno Kpokpo as the legitimate zonal chairman bringing an end to years of division.
Relations with the Ijaw National Congress (INC) were fully restored, fostering renewed synergy and a united front in championing Ijaw interests at national and international levels.
5. Advocacy & Youth Empowerment
The NEC consistently issued timely statements and engaged the media to highlight the plight of Ijaw and Niger Delta communities, holding the Federal Government, state actors, and oil multinationals accountable.
Advocated for increased budgetary allocation to the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), noting that the current ₦65 billion annual funding is grossly inadequate in the face of inflation and socio-economic realities.
Initiated monthly stipends to zonal structures, clans, and the Parliament, thereby deepening decentralization and encouraging grassroots empowerment.
As we enter the final lap of our mandate, we are committed to doing more. We will build on the gains, consolidate our vision, and deepen our impact.
For the good of our people and the integrity of our struggle, we must remain the accurate scribes of our history,congratulations to Mr. President, the executive council, and the entire Ijaw nation.
Icon-James Tam, SA Parliamentary& Public Affairs to IYC President
