Chief Moni Congratulates INC President-elect Igbadiwei, Wishes Him Fruitful Tenure

By Osaro Michael, Benin

Prominent Ijaw leader and pioneer president of Meinbotus Federated Community, Chief Ebis Moni, has congratulated Chief Barr McDonald Igbadiwei, on his emergence as President-Elect of the Ijaw National Congress (INC).

In a goodwill message issued on Saturday, Chief Moni described Igbadiwei’s victory as “a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in him by Ijaw sons and daughters across the world.”

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Delta Ijaw, I heartily congratulated Igbadiwei on his well-deserved election as President of the INC,” the statement read. “His track record of scholarship, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Ijaw cause makes him the right man for this critical moment in our history.”

Chief Moni noted that the INC, as the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, requires steady and visionary leadership to confront pressing issues facing the Ijaw nation, including environmental degradation, resource control, infrastructure deficit, and political marginalization.

“The Ijaw nation is at a crossroads. From the creeks of Bayelsa to the oil-rich communities of Delta, Rivers, Edo, and Ondo States, our people yearn for equity, justice, and development that matches our contributions to the Nigerian federation. I am confident that Barr. Igbadiwei possesses the intellect, courage, and diplomacy to advance these aspirations,” he said.

While wishing the President-Elect a fruitful and impactful tenure, Chief Moni urged all Ijaw stakeholders to rally behind the new INC leadership irrespective of differences during the electioneering process.

“This is not the time for division. The task of uniting Ijaw land and speaking with one voice on matters of development and self-determination is bigger than any individual or interest group. I call on all sons and daughters of Ijaw, at home and in the diaspora, to give Barr. Igbadiwei and his executive team the full support they need to succeed,” he added.

Chief Moni also charged the incoming administration to prioritize youth empowerment, protection of Ijaw territories, and sustained engagement with federal and state governments to address the longstanding neglect of Ijaw communities.

“The Ijaw people have given so much to Nigeria’s economic survival through our oil and gas resources. Yet our communities remain underdeveloped. The new INC must make this paradox its central advocacy,” he stated.

Barr. Igbadiwei, a seasoned administrator and public orator emerged President-Elect at the INC National Convention held earlier April 13, 2026, at Ijaw House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He is expected to be sworn in alongside other members of the National Executive Council next month.

Chief Ebis Moni concluded his message with prayers for wisdom and strength for the President-Elect: “May God grant Barr. Igbadiwei the wisdom of Solomon, the courage of Adaka Boro, and the heart of a true servant-leader as he pilots the affairs of the Ijaw nation. We look forward to a tenure of peace, progress, and pride for all Ijaw people.”