The Ijaw National Congress (INC), the apex body representing the Ijaw people worldwide, has issued a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to prioritize two critical bills currently before the Senate. These bills, sponsored by Senator Joel Onowakpo, seek to establish a School of Nursing in Patani (Patani Local Government Area) and a Polytechnic in Bomadi (Bomadi Local Government Area), both situated in Ijaw communities within Delta State.
In a press statement signed by Prof. Benjamin O.G. Okaba, President of the INC, the Congress highlighted the historical neglect suffered by Ijaw communities in Delta State regarding the establishment of higher educational institutions. Despite Delta State boasting the highest number of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, the Ijaw areas remain starkly underserved, with other ethnic groups in the state enjoying multiple federal and state institutions.
The INC expressed deep appreciation for Senator Joel Onowakpo’s leadership, describing his efforts as a rare example of inclusivity and dedication to addressing the long-standing marginalization of the Ijaw people. “The reward for hard work is more work,” the INC remarked, urging Senator Onowakpo to continue championing the cause of the Ijaw people.
The INC made an earnest plea to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas to expedite the legislative process for the proposed bills. They emphasized the significance of these bills in fulfilling the educational aspirations of the Ijaw people and addressing decades of neglect.
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In a direct appeal to President Tinubu, the INC urged him to use his presidential influence to support the swift passage and eventual assent of these bills. They described the projects as a historic opportunity to foster equity, inclusivity, and development for the Ijaw communities in Delta State.
The Congress noted that, despite having Ijaw representatives in parliament for decades, little has been done to improve educational opportunities in their communities. “This is a golden opportunity to bring lasting change to a community that has endured decades of neglect,” the INC stated.
The establishment of the School of Nursing in Patani and the Polytechnic in Bomadi would mark a significant milestone in addressing the developmental needs of Ijaw communities. The INC called on all stakeholders to support this initiative to ensure the dreams of Delta Ijaws for educational equity and development become a reality.
The Ijaw National Congress serves as the umbrella organization for Ijaw people worldwide, advocating for their cultural, social, and developmental interests.
