The Ijaw Youth Council founded on the (1998-12-11) 11 December 1998 (age 26) is a prominent sociopolitical organization in NIgeria, representing the interest of the Ijaw people, which is the fourth largest ethnic groups in Nigeria.
The Ijaw Youth Council was founded in Kaiama, Bayelsa State on the 11th day of December, 1998 during a period of Intense activism and agitation for the rights of the Niger Delta people, with Dr. Felix Tuodolo as pioneer president..
The IYC emerged as a response to the longstanding grievances over environmental degradation, economic marginalization and political disenfranchisement faced by the Ijaw people and other communities in the oil rich Niger Delta.
Founding and Purpose
The IYC was established following the Kaiama Declaration, a document that articulated the demands of the Ijaw people for greater control over their natural resources, environmental protection and self determination.
The organizations' primary purpose is to advocate for the rights and the interest of the Ijaw people particularly in relation to exploitation of oil and gas resources in their land.
Advocacy and Activism
The IYC has been actively involved in various forms of advocacy, ranging from peaceful protests and negotiations to more militant actions. The group is known for strong stance against the exploitation of the Niger Delta's resources by multinational oil companies and the NIgerian government without adequate compensation or development in the region.
The organization has also been involved in broader national issues advocating for federalism, resource control and the protection of the minority rights in Nigeria.
Leadership and Influence
The IYC has produced several notable leaders who have played significant roles in Nigerian politics and the Niger Delta struggle. The organizations leadership is influential in local and national politics and its decisions can impact the broader sociopolitical landscape in the Niger delta.
Current Relevance
Today the IYC continues to be a vocal advocate for Ijaw people and Niger delta, engaging in dialogues with government and stakeholders to address the ongoing challenge of the region. The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide currently led by Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri as president remains a key player in the socio-political dynamics of Nigeria, particularly in the context of the Niger Delta's ongoing struggles for environmental justice and resource control.
External links
- The Kaima Declaration by Ijaw Youths of the Niger Delta: "Being communique issued at the end of the All-Ijaw Youths Conference which held in the town of Kaima this 11th day of December 1998"
References
- THEWILL, David Owei (2023-07-23). "Lokpobiri Floors Ekerefe, Others, Emerges 19th IYC President". Retrieved 2024-12-21.
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