Briga News Nigeria
Today May 16th, 2025
Address to the Ijaw Nation on Boro @ 57.
Distinguished Sons and Daughters of the Ijaw Nation
Today, we stand at a crossroads in our history, reflecting on the life and legacy of Major Jasper Isaac Adaka Boro, a man whose courage and sacrifice ignited the flames of our struggle for justice, equity, and self-determination. As we celebrate Boro @ 57, we do not merely commemorate a hero—we reaffirm our commitment to the ideals for which he fought, the dreams he carried, and the future he envisioned for the Ijaw Nation.
Boro was not just a warrior; he was a visionary. He saw the suffering of our people, the exploitation of our land, and the injustice that denied us control over our own destiny. In 1966, he took a stand, declaring the Niger Delta Republic and leading the Niger Delta Volunteer Force in a twelve-day revolution. Though his rebellion was short-lived, it was never in vain. It awakened a consciousness that still burns in our hearts today.
The Struggle Continues
The Kaiama Declaration of 1998 was another defining moment in our history. It was a bold statement that reaffirmed our right to resource control, self-determination, and environmental justice. It was a call to action, a demand that our land and resources must serve our people—not outsiders who exploit and abandon us.
Yet, decades later, our struggle remains unfinished. Our coastal communities are ravaged by erosion, our rivers poisoned by oil spills, and our air thick with soot from gas flaring. The land that should sustain us has become a graveyard of lost opportunities. Despite the abundant crude oil and gas resources that flow from our soil, our people remain impoverished, denied the basic amenities that every human deserves.
Where is the political will to change our fate? Where are the leaders who should fight for us? Too often, our politicians have failed us, choosing personal gain over the collective good. But we, the sons and daughters of the Ijaw Nation, must rise above this betrayal. We must think Ijaw first in all our dealings, putting our people, our land, and our future above all else.
The Role of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC)
As a growing leader in the Ijaw Youth Council, I reflect deeply on our journey. The IYC was born out of necessity, forged in the fires of resistance, and strengthened by the sacrifices of those who came before us. We are not just an organization—we are the heartbeat of the Ijaw struggle.
But we must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough? Are we truly honoring the legacy of Boro and the vision of the Kaiama Declaration? The IYC must evolve—not just as a voice of protest, but as a force for economic empowerment, education, and sustainable development. We must demand accountability, not just from the government and oil companies, but from ourselves.
Appreciation and Tribute
We owe immense gratitude to the founding fathers of the IYC, including its pioneer president, Dr. Felix Tuodolo, whose leadership helped shape this movement. We recognize the contributions of past and present leaders of the IYC, as well as our revered leader, High Chief Dr. Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), whose unwavering commitment has kept the Ijaw struggle alive.
We also honor our father Pa E.K Clark, HRM Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo, HRM King Ateke Michael Tom (JP), H.E Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, and all those who have stood firm in defense of our people. Above all, we pay tribute to the fallen heroes—those who gave their lives so that we may stand here today. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Boro @ 57, let us not just remember—we must act. We must rise as one people, united in our pursuit of justice, equity, and prosperity. The struggle continues, but with resilience, unity, and determination, victory is inevitable.
Long live the Ijaw Nation!
Long live the Niger Delta!
Long live the spirit of Isaac Boro!
Comr. Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete
MBBS, MSc PH, MSc GHCM, HIT Cert.
Immediate Past Chairman, IYC Western Zone & Immediate Past Chairman of All Zones and Chapter Chairmens Forum, IYC Worldwide.
