Joseph Evah Celebrates Ijaw Female Students Association 20th Anniversary

By Perekeme Odon
 

The National Association of Ijaw Female Students Worldwide (NAIFS) proudly celebrated its 20th anniversary and convention on Saturday, November 30, 2024, in Lagos. 

 

This remarkable three-fold event not only marked a significant milestone in their unwavering commitment to empowering and shaping a brighter future for Ijaw women, but also showcased the active participation of their esteemed alumnae, dedicated patron, Comrade Joseph Evah, and a host of other distinguished guests.

The event was a significant celebration held at the Classic Event Centre in Ikeja and Mercy Hall in Ketu, Lagos State, in Celebrating 20 Years of Deworming Children of the Niger Delta, with the theme, “Inspiring The Ijaw Nation To Shape The Future.” Over 6,000 Ijaw female students and alumni attended from various tertiary institutions across Nigeria and beyond, with dignitaries from across the nation joining to honour this impactful initiative.

 

NAIFS, established in February 2004 and inaugurated at the 28th convention of the National Union of Izon-Ibe Students in Torugbene, Delta State, represents all female students of Ijaw origin in higher education. With a focus on deworming children in the Niger Delta for over 20 years, it seeks to unify Ijaw female students and promote communal networking, supported by Comrade Joseph Evah, while aiming to expand its presence in tertiary institutions across Nigeria and beyond.

  

In her address, the former president of the NAIFS alumnae confidently outlined her insights on the significant progress of the association and emphasized the crucial role NAIFS plays in advancing the Ijaw Nation and beyond.

Hilda Dokubo & Comrade Joseph Evah

“The association has made such that we provide humanitarian aid and socially beneficial programmes despite the economic collapses. The collective determination we have demonstrated has had a positive effect and improved the lives of those who need our assistance. The growing membership and active participation within the association indicate a positive trend towards increased mutual coexistence. This development is expected to continue indefinitely.”

Barr. Mrs. Elizabeth Ajuwa

President Ajuwa-Ajibuu addressed the association's shortcomings, emphasizing that recognizing these deficiencies is crucial for improvement. “The challenges of gathering a large number of members due to our geographical discrete locations and financial constraints have hindered our coming together frequently. However, our dedication to the association motivates us to overcome obstacles to collaborate to the best of our ability.”

Prof. D.D Moro

Barr. Ajuwa-Ajibulu expressed her deep appreciation for Super Comrade Joseph Evah, the founding father and President-General of the association. She lauded his relentless dedication and strategic guidance, which have been pivotal in propelling the association to remarkable success.

 

“I cannot tell my life story without mentioning this fantastic great man, a rear gem, a living legend and a nation builder, Super Comrade Joseph Evah for being a remarkable leader and your selfless dedication to helping others and standing as a father figure, mentor, leader and councilor. Your support to the association members in various ways, such as financially, morally, socially, physically, spiritually and mentally has been priceless. We are grateful for the positive impact you have for all of us.” She stated.

Queen Doubrah Samuel

In his keynote speech, Prof. D.D. Moro, the distinguished Professor of Microbiology at Lagos State University and chairman of the event, passionately commended Comrade Evah for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the association over 20 years, which has positively transformed lives across the Niger Delta region.

“This programme is a very significant milestone in the annals of the history of Ijaw female students. It’s very encouraging to see Ijaw female students gathered together in one fold. It is not an easy task for a man to sustain a vision like NAIFS for 20 years. It has cost him a lot, financially and morally to gather thousands of Ijaw female students from all Nigerian universities.”

Hilda Dokubo

Hilda Dokubo, a remarkable and dynamic Nollywood actress, producer, and director, emphatically emphasized the importance of education and employment. She inspired Ijaw women to embrace their strength and remain resilient. Additionally, she applauded Comrade Evah for his impactful contributions over the years.

 

“I was told a long time ago by my mother that the answer to every problem is in the problem. The average Ijaw woman including my grandmother is very resilient. We come from the stock of people who never give up. However, do not despise small beginning.”

 

“Once upon a time, whenever they come to where we come from, they will say they cannot employ us because we are uneducated. We are under-educated. Our daughters were only good enough to be wives and mothers. And even that, they will leave us with allegations of having children outside wedlock. But one thing nobody has ever accused an Ijaw woman of is that we don’t abandon our children. Our children everywhere are accountable to us. Today, I am seeing very beautiful women in this room, and all of them, are either graduates or undergraduates. Today, we are not only employable, but we want to employ them. I am very proud of our Super Comrade for this strategic position event.”

Comrade Joseph Evah & Comr. Nicholas Tamaradenyefa Igarama

In a compelling media interview, Comrade Evah, the founder and grand patron, emphasized that the association was established in memory of his late sisters who lost their lives to oil pollution. He shared the positive feedback from members and stressed the importance of mobilizing and empowering Ijaw female students. This initiative aims to foster solidarity among them, helping them pursue their dreams and build a brighter future for themselves and the Ijaw ethnic group in the Niger Delta region.

 

“This programme is in memory of my late kid sisters who died of oil pollution in my village when I was a child, and I will continue to do it. Some of the graduates are also sponsoring a lot of platforms. They sponsored the medical team. I hope the new members of the association will follow in the elders' footsteps by deworming children, promoting speaking the Ijaw language, and encouraging education in Ijaw land as we are at a disadvantage like the Northerners. Those who can push it are women as they care for the homes, as the men are so engrossed with economic and glitches of hardship. This association will be bigger than this in future”.

(l-r) Chief Komboye Biakpara-Ishola, Mrs. Yebiye Jacobs & Ms. Kuro Fapohunda

The event was a celebration of excellence, with Miss Doubrah Samuel, a medical student at the University of Benin City, crowned the queen of the 2024 Miss Ijaw Beauty Pageant. Her outstanding performance earned her a brand new Honda car as a well-deserved prize.

 

Elections were held for a leadership transition, and Comrade Tamaradenyefa Ogunkoru emerged victorious and was elected as the new NAIFS student president, succeeding Dr Tekena Wariboku, both from the University of Benin City, Edo State.

 

At the alumnae election, Barrister Bilkisu Odoko and Miss Pricilia Ugbagba were elected as President and Vice President of the NAIFS Alumnae, succeeding Barrister Elizabeth Ajuwa and Mrs. Gladys Samuel Iheanacho in their leadership roles.

 

The vibrant event was graced by remarkable personalities, including former INC Lagos Chapter Chairman Pst. Ebitimi Dio-Posibi, insurance Amazon, Mrs. Ebika Magada, Comr. Nicholas Tamaradenyefa Igarama, Chairman, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone, Comr. Elayelagha Golden Ambakederemo, Secretary, INC Lagos Chapter, among others.

Mrs. Ebika Magada

The Contestants

Pst. Ebitimi Dio-Posibi & Comr. Elayelagha Golden Ambakederemo

Chief Elijah, Queen Miss Doubrah Samuel & Hilda Dokubo

Dr, Chief Elijah & Mc Kidikidi

NAIFS Alumnae

NAIFS Campus Queens

The Protocol Team

 Comr. Nicholas Tamaradenyefa Igarama & Comrade Joseph Evah

A Cross Section of The Hall

Comr. Nicholas Tamaradenyefa Igarama & Queen Doubrah Samuel

 

Tonye Harry Sworn In As INC Lagos Chapter Chairman

By Perekeme Odon

The Lagos State Chapter of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the foremost apolitical umbrella body of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, has decisively inaugurated a new executive committee to effectively manage its affairs for the next three years.

Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard

Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard, Deputy President of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and former treasurer of the INC Lagos Chapter, has been elected as the Chairman of the Congress, succeeding Pastor Ebitimi Dio-Posibi. The certificate of return was bestowed upon all the victors at the Red Brick, NCAC National Theatre, Ignamu, Lagos State, on September 28, 2024, in Lagos, the pivotal economic centre of Nigeria.

After the elections on Saturday, September 21st, 2024, the newly inaugurated Chairman of Ijaw National Congress INC, Lagos Chapter, Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard, shared his infectious enthusiasm in his inaugural speech, eloquently expressing his deep sense of pride and connection with his people.

Ijaw National Congress Worldwide

"I am thrilled to be in your presence once again today. I am deeply honoured and filled with great elation, and humbled by the confidence you have placed in me as the leader of this esteemed congress. It is a privilege to share this colourful occasion with all of you, the distinguished sons and daughters of Ijaw Nation. Your support means a lot, and I am excited about the journey ahead as we work together to achieve great things." He stated.

 

Comrade Harry asserted that the new executive, under his leadership, would actively pursue the acquisition of a suitable secretariat for the organization. He also pledged that the Lagos chapter would focus on empowering its members.

High Chief Philip Brown Agu With The New EXCO

"Securing a suitable location is our top priority, as it is crucial for us to have a strong base. The Lagos chapter of INC is absolutely essential. Our outgoing chairman and our national leader have made it clear that the INC Lagos State chapter is a vital part of the broader INC national or international framework."

 

"I am fully prepared to serve the Ijaw nation for the next three years, along with my dedicated wife and children. I urge every Ijaw son and daughter to be equally prepared for this service."

 

Comrade Harry extended heartfelt appreciation to the former chairman and his executive for their unwavering and dedicated leadership, which has led to remarkable advancements in our shared goals. Their achievements speak for themselves. He eagerly pledged to bring his own brand of dynamic leadership to his new role, as he and his team are poised to set a compelling example for others to follow.

(l-r) Comrade Tonye Harry, INC Treasurer, High Chief Philip Brown Agu & Pst Ebitimi Dio-Posibi

"I commend my predecessor and his team for the significant successes achieved during their tenure, providing us with a robust foundation to build."

 

Harry urged fellow congress members to join forces and support the group in achieving its objectives with a united front, emphasizing that their collective unity is their greatest strength. He called on all aggrieved members to reconcile, stating that unity would propel the INC Lagos Chapter to remarkable success.

 

“Let's embrace forgiveness for our liberation. Our unity is our strength. Embracing our differences and harnessing our collective energy is crucial for progress. Releasing past grievances and divisive rhetoric is essential for our collective ambition.”

High Chief Philip Brown Agu, National Treasurer, INC Worldwide

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Barrister Patrick G. Egbeotu and witnessed by High Chief Philip Brown Agu, National Treasurer, INC Worldwide, who represented the INC President, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba. He commended the outgoing executives led by Pastor Ebitimi Dio-Posibi for their patience and understanding and urged the new executives to approach their responsibilities with utmost seriousness as ambassadors of the Ijaw Nation.

Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard

“Anyone familiar with the history of the INC will agree to the fact that the Lagos chapter is a very notable and important chapter of the INC. The executive members should note very well that they’ve come to serve the Ijaw Nation in this all-important state in Nigeria, which is Lagos State."

 

The INC treasurer emphasized to the Lagos executives that INC worldwide must no longer be treated as a mere portfolio INC, but as a determined and professional entity. He stressed the importance of financial responsibility, accountability, and certified documentation, given the serious task at hand due to the current unusual situation of the Nigerian economy. He highlighted the unfortunate reality that many families can no longer afford three square meals, and emphasized that it is expected for the Ijaws to be the richest in the Nigerian context, with others coming to borrow from them.

Elder Regent Youmou

"The Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba-led INC is focused on professionalism and functionality, even in the president's absence. Proper documentation and financial responsibility are crucial to avoid issues. Nigeria is facing economic challenges, and the average citizen struggles to afford even a single meal. We, as Ijaw people, should not suffer alongside Nigeria, considering our unique position as oil producers."

 

The former chairman, Pastor Ebitimi Dio-Posibi, thanked the congress and former executives, and felt honored to have facilitated the birth of new executive members. He commended the members for taking a stand on the zoning process, advised the new chairman to promote unity, and highlighted financial constraints in the Lagos chapter.

Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard Displaying His Certificate of Return

"I want to emphasize that in this election, there are no winners or losers. The new chairman must be inclusive and work with the whole team. Managing everyone effectively will make a difference. Team spirit is crucial. We urge the national to consider giving concessions to the Lagos Chapter due to our financial constraints. INC Worldwide cannot be INC without the Lagos Chapter." He affirmed.

 

In his address, Elder Regent Youmor, a respected Ijaw comrade, kindly reminded the new executive that they are servants, not leaders, to the Ijaw people in Lagos. He highlighted the need for reconciliation, recognizing the path that led them to this point, and suggested a proactive membership drive to enhance the association's visibility.

(l-r) Barr. Patrick G. Agbeotu, Ebi Benson & Pst Ebitimi Dio-Posibi

"The new INC executives are servants to the Ijaw people of Lagos, not leaders, and I am delighted to hear you say you and your family are well prepared for this journey, as are we. We all know how we got here: quarrels, leg-cuttings, acrimonies, backbiting, and outright fighting. Some of us who are not INC officers underwent baptisms of fire, and we responded appropriately as leaders. A leader is a leader for everyone, good or bad. Everybody should be prepared to serve. Aggressive membership drive from various communities should also be embarked on with all seriousness.” Comrade Youmor stated.

 

The newly sworn-in INC Lagos Chapter executives are: Comrade Tonye Leonard Harry, Chairman (Eastern Zone); Matawa Yinkere Harry, Vice Chairman (Western Zone); Elayelagha Golden Ambakederemo, Secretary (Central Zone); Sogules Ere Howell, Assistant Secretary (Eastern Zone); Abraham Gillet Okponimibofa, Financial Secretary (Central Zone); Arepade Odimowei Corson, Treasurer (Western Zone); and Henry Elijah Gabriel, Publicity Secretary (Eastern Zone).

Swearing In Of The Chairman & His Executives

The INC constitution names former chairman Pastor Ebitimi Dio-Posibi as the ex-officio member. Other elected officers are Bodiesere Sarah Jacob, the organising secretary (central zone), Mary Ebinimie Ayakpo, the auditor (central zone), and Paul Tam Kurekure (ESQ), the legal adviser (western zone).

 

Eleco Chairman, Erepatei Mawari (Esq)

(l-r) Barr. Patrick G. Agbeotu, Ebi Benson & Pst Ebitimi Dio-Posibi

Abraham Gillet Okponimibofa, Financial Secretary

Comrade Elayelagha Golden Ambakederemo, Secretary

Elder Regent Youmor & Guests

 

(l-r) Golden Ambakederem, Barr Egbeotu, Comrade Tonye, Mary Ayakpo & Okponimibofa

Mary Ineye & Friends

(l-r) Elder Regent Youmor, INC Treasurer, High Chief Philip Brown Agu & Pst Ebitimi Dio-Posibi

Comrade Matawa Yinkere Harry, Vice Chairman

Comrade Toikumo & Comrade Sunday