Over the weekend, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide successfully concluded its 2026 National Convention and National Elections, culminating in the emergence of a new National Executive Council following a process widely adjudged free, fair, credible, transparent, and peaceful. The convention commenced at the IYC 2,500-Capacity Event Centre before proceeding to the Dr. Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre for the election proper, where delegates from across the Ijaw nation participated in a keenly contested exercise conducted by the Dr. Charles Ikimi-led National Electoral Committee. At the conclusion of voting, Comrade Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete, PhD, was elected President-Elect alongside a new team of officers who will constitute the 10th National Executive Council of IYC Worldwide.

The convention drew an impressive gathering of former IYC leaders, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, youth leaders, and thousands of delegates from across the Niger Delta, reaffirming the Council’s position as the foremost platform for Ijaw youth leadership and advocacy. Distinguished personalities in attendance included IYC’s first President, Dr. Felix Tuodolo; INC Vice President II; HRH King Asari Dokubo, Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari; Elder T.K. Ogoriba; former IYC President, Chief Jonjon Oweife; Hon. Barr. Kingsley Kuku; Dr. Alaye Theophilus; and several other eminent leaders and stakeholders. Their presence and goodwill underscored a collective commitment to unity, democratic values, and the advancement of the shared aspirations of the Ijaw people.

The newly elected leadership comprises Comrade Aladiokuma Henry Hart as Deputy National President; Comrade Barr. Igbeta Ayebakuro Itari, PhD, as National Secretary; Comrade Johnny Torudonkumor James as National Assistant Secretary; Comrade Omaghomi Olu-Derimon (OOD) as National Mobilization Officer; Comrade Imomotimi James as Deputy National Mobilization Officer; Comrade Victor Ibaningo as National Spokesman; Comrade Harry as National Treasurer; Comrade Frank Akenfa as National Financial Secretary; Comrade Barr. Meshack N. Sintei as National Legal Adviser; and Comrade Ebi Kutu Ayibakuro as National Woman Leader.

Following the declaration of results, certificates of return were presented to the successful candidates, while the outgoing President of IYC Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr., announced Tuesday, July 22, 2026, as the date for the formal inauguration of the newly elected executive.

The successful conclusion of the 2026 IYC elections marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Council. The maturity demonstrated by delegates, the spirit of sportsmanship exhibited by contestants, and the unifying leadership provided by Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr. and Dr. Alaye Theophilus throughout the process have been widely commended as a strong affirmation of the Ijaw nation’s commitment to democratic governance, institutional stability, and collective progress. As the President-Elect and the incoming National Executive Council prepare to assume office, expectations remain high that the new administration will build on the achievements of its predecessors while advancing youth empowerment, justice, peace, and sustainable development across the Ijaw nation.