By Emem Idio, Yenagoa 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC ) Worldwide, has congratulated the newly inaugurated leadership of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) led by Chief (Barr.) Macdonald Igbadiwei following their successful inauguration held on Thursday, 14th May 2026 at the Chief Tunde Smooth Playground in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, Warri, Western Zone.

According to a statement by the Spokesman of IYC, Amb. Binebai Princewill, the emergence and inauguration of the new leadership of the INC marks another significant chapter in the collective struggle and advancement of the Ijaw nation. 

“We are optimistic that under the leadership of Chief (Barr.) Macdonald Igbadiwei, the INC will witness renewed strength, unity, progress and purposeful direction in the pursuit of the aspirations of the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta region at large.

“The gesture of distributing six brand new luxurious buses to the various zones and chapters of the INC on his very first day in office is highly commendable and a clear sign of visionary leadership and commitment to effective coordination of the organization. This development will undoubtedly enhance easy mobilization, participation and inclusiveness of members across all zones whenever the need arises for meetings, consultations and other critical engagements concerning the Ijaw nation.

“The IYC Worldwide strongly believes that the new leadership should place high priority on reconciliation, unity and inclusiveness by reaching out to all aggrieved leaders, aspirants and stakeholders across Ijaw land. At a time when the Ijaw nation faces several political, economic and environmental challenges, there is an urgent need for all sons and daughters of Ijaw nation to close ranks and work together in one accord for the collective interest of our people.

“We therefore appeal to all those who may feel dissatisfied with the outcome of the process to embrace peace, put the overall interest of Ijaw nation above personal interests and support the new Executive Council in order to sustain the unity and progress of our people. History has shown that no nation develops in an atmosphere of division and prolonged disagreements. The strength of the Ijaw nation lies in our unity, solidarity and shared commitment to the liberation struggle of our people.

“The IYC Worldwide wishes to reaffirm its readiness to continue to work closely with the new leadership of the INC whenever the need arises, as both organizations remain committed to the same cause of defending, promoting and advancing the interest of the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta struggle.

“We have no doubt that the newly constituted Executive of the INC under the leadership of the seasoned traditionalist, legal practitioner and respected leader, Chief (Barr.) Macdonald Igbadiwei, alongside other highly revered and competent members of his Exco, will bring greater glory, stability and development to the Ijaw nation,”  Amb Princewill said.