PRESS STATEMENT BY THE IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (WORLDWIDE) ON THE PROPOSED SCHOOL OF NURSING FOR PATANI AND POLYTECHNIC IN BOMADI: PRESIDENT TINUBU, LET THIS WORK, PLEASE

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) is aware of two critical bills currently before the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These bills, sponsored by Senator Joel Onowakpo, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, seek to establish a School of Nursing in Patani (Patani Local Government Area) and a Polytechnic in Bomadi (Bomadi Local Government Area)—both within Ijaw- areas in0 Delta State. The Ijaw people, both in Delta State and across the globe, are thrilled at the prospects of having such higher institutions finally located in their long-neglected communities.

A brief historical perspective is necessary here. For decades, the Ijaw people of Delta State have consistently advocated for the establishment of higher institutions in their areas. Unfortunately, these appeals have fallen on deaf ears, even though Delta State boasts the highest number of higher institutions in Nigeria. Nearly all other ethnic groups within the state have benefited from these institutions, with some ethnic nationalities enjoying the presence of multiple federal and state institutions, including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, nursing schools, and specialized medical schools. In contrast, the Ijaw areas have been systematically overlooked.

Regrettably, this marginalization persisted despite thefact that Ijaw representatives have served in parliament for extended periods—some for over two decades.  

 This makes Senator Joel Onowakpo's efforts even more commendable, as he has demonstrated rare leadership and inclusiveness in championing the cause of the Ijaw people To Senator Onowakpo, the Ijaw National Congress says: The reward for hard work is more work.

Against this backdrop, the Ijaw National Congress makes an earnest appeal to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to ensure these bills are expedited through the legislative process. The significance of these bills cannot be overstated, as they directly address the long-standing educational aspirations of the Ijaw people of Delta State.

Furthermore, we humbly call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to leverage his presidential influence to support the swift passage of these bills through the National Assembly and to give his assent promptly once they are passed. At this critical juncture in history, these projects represent the most meaningful way to address the developmental yearnings of the Delta Ijaws.

Mr. President, we trust in your leadership and commitment to equity and inclusivity. This is a golden opportunity to bring lasting change to a community that has endured decades of neglect.

SIGNED:

Prof. Benjamin O. Okaba,

           President,

Ijaw National Congress (Worldwide)