A new government has emerged following the declaration of Doubra Okotete as President-Elect of The Ijaw Youth Council, (IYC) Worldwide, in the just concluded 2026 national elections.
Delivering his speech on Sunday, July 12, 2026 Okotete described the election as the triumph of unity, peace, democracy, and the collective will of the Ijaw people. He noted that the victory belongs to the entire Ijaw Nation.
“Today, we celebrate not merely an electoral victory, but the triumph of unity, peace, democracy, and the collective will of the Ijaw people. Indeed, this is a victory for the entire Ijaw Nation,” he said.
Okotete however extended his deepest appreciation to the 117 delegates across all chapters for what he described as their unwavering support, he also acknowledged members of the 10th National Executive Council that were elected alongside him.
He further appreciated key Ijaw leaders for their guidance, including but not limited to: Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State and Governor General of the Ijaw Nation, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, Tompolo.
Others are; HRM King Alhaji Dokubo-Asari, HRM Ateke Michael Tom, High Chief Kestin Pondi, as well as the Founding Fathers of the IYC, Traditional Rulers, Elders, and Stakeholders.
The President -Elect of the IYC Worldwide, Doubra Okotete further commended the 9th National Executive Council, (NEC) led by Jonathan Lokpobiri, for ensuring what he called a seamless transition, and the National Electoral Committee, (NECOM), headed by Charles Ikimi, for conducting, according to him, a peaceful, free, fair, transparent, and credible election.
Okotete also lauded his campaign team led by Ijonama Amon, benefactors, and fellow aspirants who stepped down “in the interest of unity and the greater good of the Ijaw Nation.”
The President-Elect further called on all contestants and stakeholders to close ranks and work in synergy to build a stronger and more inclusive IYC.
“The contest is over; now is the time to close ranks, heal every divide, and work together in unity to build a stronger, more united, more inclusive, and more progressive Ijaw Youth Council.
Together, united in purpose and driven by service, we shall advance the cause of the Ijaw Nation and build a stronger, more prosperous future for our people,” Okotete added.
The inauguration of the 10th National Executive Council is scheduled for Wednesday, 22nd July, 2026, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.