Bomadi, Delta State– The quiet riverine town of Bomadi was transformed into a bustling hub of youth energy today as the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide gathered for its high-stakes Non-Elective Convention. Under the steady hand of National President Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, the council set the stage for a defining era in Ijaw history. From the shores of the United Kingdom to the streets of Lagos and Abuja, Ijaw leaders and youths arrived in mass at Delta State from all zones, signaling a unified front that resonated far beyond the Niger Delta.

The electric atmosphere reached its peak during the official unveiling of the National Electoral Committee Nominees. These individuals have been nominated from across the Council’s zones and chapters to oversee the pivotal 2026 National Elections. In a move that emphasizes regional representation, President Lokpobiri named Dr. Charles Ikimi as the Chairman of the National Electoral Committee.

The powerhouse team of nominees includes Mr. Napoleon Kenerekedi and Comr. Icon James Tam representing the Western Zone, while Rt. Hon. Digimie Eldred Pogonye and Comr. Mitin Gesikeme stand for the Central Zone. The Eastern Zone is represented by Comr. Bristol Emmanuel Alagbarua and Comr. Micah A. Micah, with Comr. Fiyebo Eperetei and Comr. Minasigha Bluejack representing the Lagos and Abuja Chapters respectively.

In what is being described as a landmark decision, the convention tackled one of the most heated debates in the Council’s recent history regarding Diaspora Voting. Following intense deliberations and passionate arguments from delegates, the convention reached a definitive resolution. To ensure the Council’s focus remains rooted in its territorial foundations, the issue of Diaspora chapter voting has been officially expunged from the IYC Constitution. This move clarifies the Council’s internal structure and settles a long-standing controversy that had previously divided opinions across the globe. On another vein, the convention also formally recognizes the Ohaji-Egbema & Oguta Clans In Imo State as Imo chapter of the IYC in Eastern Zone.

The momentum from Bomadi isn’t slowing down. The convention has officially mandated the IYC Mobile Parliament to convene a sitting in earnest. Their immediate task is to screen and ratify the newly unveiled Electoral Committee nominees, ensuring that the transition toward the 2026 elections remains legally watertight and transparent.

With the UK Chapter and representatives from every corner of the nation in attendance, the IYC has sent a clear message to the world: The Ijaw Youth are organized, empowered, and ready for the future. As the Parliament prepares to sit, the eyes of the Niger Delta remain fixed on this bold new direction for the IYC.