Frequently Asked Questions
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The Ijaw Youth Council passionately stands as the voice of the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta, tirelessly working with the government and key stakeholders to confront the region’s enduring challenges and push for meaningful progress.
What is the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC)
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) is a socio-political organization that represents the interests of Ijaw youths in Nigeria. It was founded in 1998 with the aim of promoting the rights, development, and well-being of the Ijaw people, particularly concerning resource control, environmental justice, and self-determination.
What are the main objectives of the IYC?
The IYC is committed to:
Advocating for the rights of the Ijaw people.
Promoting peace and unity among Ijaw youths.
Engaging in environmental activism against oil pollution.
Fighting for resource control and fair distribution of wealth in the Niger Delta.
Protecting the cultural heritage of the Ijaw nation.
Advocating for the rights of the Ijaw people.
Promoting peace and unity among Ijaw youths.
Engaging in environmental activism against oil pollution.
Fighting for resource control and fair distribution of wealth in the Niger Delta.
Protecting the cultural heritage of the Ijaw nation.
When was the Ijaw Youth Council established?
The Ijaw Youth Council was established on December 11, 1998, following the Kaiama Declaration by Ijaw youths in Bayelsa State.
What is the Kaiama Declaration about?
The Kaiama Declaration is a historic document issued by Ijaw youths on December 11, 1998, in Kaiama, Bayelsa State. It outlined their demands for self-determination, control of natural resources, and an end to environmental degradation caused by oil companies operating in the Niger Delta.
Who can be a member of the Ijaw Youth Council?
Membership in the IYC is open to all Ijaw youths, typically between the ages of 18 and 45, who share the vision and objectives of the council. They must be committed to the struggle for the advancement of the Ijaw people.
How is the leadership of the IYC structured?
The IYC has a structured leadership system, including:
National President (the highest-ranking officer)
Vice Presidents representing different zones
Secretary-General
Treasurer, Publicity Secretary, and other executive members
Leadership positions are usually filled through elections or selection by consensus.
National President (the highest-ranking officer)
Vice Presidents representing different zones
Secretary-General
Treasurer, Publicity Secretary, and other executive members
Leadership positions are usually filled through elections or selection by consensus.
What role does the IYC play in the Niger Delta struggle?
The IYC has been at the forefront of the Niger Delta struggle, advocating for:
Resource control and fair revenue allocation.
An end to environmental pollution caused by oil exploration.
Economic empowerment and infrastructural development in the region.
Peaceful negotiations with the government to address the marginalization of the Ijaw people.
Resource control and fair revenue allocation.
An end to environmental pollution caused by oil exploration.
Economic empowerment and infrastructural development in the region.
Peaceful negotiations with the government to address the marginalization of the Ijaw people.
Is the IYC a political organization?
No, the IYC is not a political party. However, it is actively involved in socio-political advocacy, influencing government policies that affect the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta region.
What are some major achievements of the IYC?
The IYC has played a significant role in:
Bringing national and international attention to the struggles of the Niger Delta.
Pressuring the government and oil companies to implement environmental cleanup projects.
Supporting youth empowerment initiatives through training and scholarships.
Advocating for the creation of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the amnesty program for ex-militants.
Bringing national and international attention to the struggles of the Niger Delta.
Pressuring the government and oil companies to implement environmental cleanup projects.
Supporting youth empowerment initiatives through training and scholarships.
Advocating for the creation of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the amnesty program for ex-militants.