Okotete Sworn in as 10th IYC President, Unveils Security, Unity Agenda

• Dr. Collins Doubra Okotete has assumed office as the 10th President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, pledging reforms, unity and youth-driven development.

• The new IYC leader announced plans to establish an Ijaw Nation Security Council to strengthen community security across Ijaw communities.

• Okotete also raised concerns over the alleged marginalisation of Ijaw communities in Edo State, urging authorities to address their grievances.

Dr. Collins Doubra Okotete has been inaugurated as the 10th President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, promising to usher in a new era of unity, institutional reforms and sustainable development across the Ijaw Nation.

Okotete took the oath of office on Wednesday alongside members of the 10th National Executive Council during an inauguration ceremony at Ijaw House in Yenagoa, officially commencing a new leadership for the apex socio-cultural youth organisation.

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In his inaugural speech, the new IYC President appealed to Ijaw youths and stakeholders to support the new administration, saying his leadership would focus on restoring the council’s credibility, strengthening its influence and advancing the interests of the Ijaw people.

A key policy announcement during his address was the proposed establishment of an Ijaw Nation Security Council, which he said would enhance community-based security mechanisms to protect lives and property across Ijaw communities in response to growing security challenges.

Okotete also voiced concern over what he described as the continued marginalisation and alleged oppression of Ijaw communities in Olodiama and other Ijaw settlements in Edo State, calling on relevant authorities to address the issues and ensure justice for affected residents.

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He pledged to build on the achievements of previous administrations while implementing programmes centred on youth empowerment, institutional strengthening, inclusive governance and socio-economic development throughout the Ijaw Nation.

“Our administration will work to unite our people, strengthen our institutions and pursue initiatives that will promote security, empowerment and sustainable development across the Ijaw Nation,” Okotete said.

The inauguration was attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, former IYC officials, government representatives, youth leaders and other stakeholders from across the Niger Delta.

Among the dignitaries present were Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe; the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV; the Amanyanabo of Elem-Kalabari, HRM King Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari Dabaye-Amakiri; and the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Kestin Ebimobowei Pondi, represented by the member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi.

The swearing-in formally inaugurated the 10th National Executive Council of the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, with expectations that the new leadership will deepen advocacy for the rights, welfare and socio-economic advancement of the Ijaw people while fostering stronger engagement with governments and development partners across the Niger Delta.