The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has urged Niger Delta leaders and institutions to prioritize youth inclusion and grassroots participation in shaping the future of the region. He made this call while speaking at the Capacity Building Program for Niger Delta Stakeholders on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Inclusive Peace for Sustainable Development, organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Department of Dispute and Conflict Resolution (DCR).

Sir Lokpobiri emphasized that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without giving young people and community leaders a seat at the decision-making table. “If we fail to carry the youths along, we fail to secure the future of the Niger Delta,” he stated. He stressed that true solutions must emerge from those who experience the daily realities of underdevelopment, marginalization, and conflict, adding that genuine inclusion builds trust and delivers lasting resolutions.

Highlighting the Ijaw Youth Council’s long-standing role as a voice for justice, equity, and peace, the IYC President noted that the Council has consistently mediated conflicts, held institutions accountable, and defended the rights of Niger Delta communities while promoting peace across Nigeria.

Commending the NDDC for hosting the program, Sir Lokpobiri described it as a positive step toward inclusive dialogue. However, he challenged the Commission and other stakeholders to move beyond discussions and ensure that resolutions are translated into visible action and tangible development at the grassroots.

In his closing remarks, Sir Lokpobiri reaffirmed the IYC’s unwavering commitment to a just and peaceful Niger Delta. He called on all stakeholders to embrace unity, accountability, and youth participation. “Our generation has the duty to demand justice, defend our future, and build peace not just for ourselves but for the generations to come,” he concluded.