The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has called on leaders, elders, and the vibrant youth of the Ijaw Nation to embrace a deeper understanding of loyalty, integrity, and unity in leadership and community life.

In his address, the President emphasized that true loyalty is not measured by public gestures or words of praise, but by actions taken when no one is watching. “It’s not about who is real to your face. It’s about who stays real behind your back,” he stated, stressing that the strength of character is revealed in unseen moments when leaders or colleagues are absent.

He highlighted that while many may appear supportive in public gatherings, the real test lies in how individuals act in private. “True friends and comrades are not only with you when the lights are on, but also when darkness surrounds you. They hold firm in storms, because their loyalty is rooted in conviction, not convenience,” he said.

The President charged members of the Ijaw Nation to build a culture where integrity and authenticity prevail. He urged the community to defend leaders in truth, safeguard the reputation of absent friends, and remain united when challenges arise. According to him, “societies are not built by those who flatter in the open, but by those who remain faithful in the unseen.”

In closing, he reaffirmed his commitment to fostering unity and resilience within the Ijaw Youth Council and the entire Ijaw Nation. “Leadership is not secured by applause today, but by trust that stands firm tomorrow. Let us, therefore, ensure that our loyalty is constant, our integrity unwavering, and our unity unshakable,” he declared.

The President prayed for continuous blessings upon the Ijaw Youth Council, the Ijaw Nation, and all who uphold truth and loyalty.