Display Boro portrait in every home in Ijaw Nation – Ozobo urges at inauguration

• Preaches mutual respect among Ijaw youth

By Joseph Bienbo, Warri

The newly elected President Comrade Ozobo Austin, and his executive committee of the Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF), has taken the oath of office for a second term, pledging to uphold the organization’s values and promote Ijaw Nation’s development.

The inauguration ceremony, held at Chief Tunde Smooth Playground in Warri, Delta State, was attended by dignitaries, including Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and Amb. Dr. Sheriff Mulade, National Coordinator, Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Amb. Jude Ebitimi Ukori (JP), the spokesman of Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, Amb. Princewill Binebai; Hon. Kofee Amasuomo,

Others were the national chairman of the Forum of the delegates of the Third phase of the presidential amnesty programme General Godstime Ogidigba, Chief Monday Keme, Chief Yusuf Edegbene, trade unions, women groups, Civil society groups, pressure groups, business leaders, and members of the fourth Estate of the Realm.

In his inaugural speech, Ozobo Austin appealed to Ijaw leaders to prioritize inclusive governance and development, saying, “This is not the time for divisive governance, but rather a time for inclusive governance.” He also urged Ijaw youths to imbibe the spirit of love, humility, and hard work, warning against the dangers of arrogance fueled by sudden wealth.

The IPF President outlined his vision for the next two years, which includes building a secretariat, establishing a printing press, and launching Ijaw indigenous radio and TV stations. He called on all Ijaw sons and daughters to support the organization in its mission to promote peace, unity, and development in the Niger Delta region.

Ozobo Austin also paid tribute to Jasper Adaka Boro, a pioneer of the Niger Delta struggle, urging Ijaw leaders to honor his legacy and not reduce his celebration to just youth affairs. He expressed gratitude to supporters, including Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Amb. Jude Ukori, and Chief Sheriff Mulade, Amb. Shedrack Agediga, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, Chief Ningi James and others for their moral and financial support.