The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has commended Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, for his legislative push to establish a School of Nursing in Patani and a Polytechnic in Bomadi, both located in Ijaw communities of Delta State.
In a statement issued by Prof. Benjamin O.G. Okaba, President General of the INC, the group lauded the senator’s efforts as a historic and transformative step toward addressing the long-standing educational challenges faced by Ijaw communities. The proposed institutions, currently encapsulated in two bills before the Nigerian Senate, have sparked widespread optimism among Ijaw people within Delta State and the diaspora.
Prof. Okaba emphasized the symbolic and practical significance of these bills, describing them as a long-awaited response to the educational aspirations of Ijaw communities. For decades, these regions have voiced the need for higher educational institutions, yet their calls often went unanswered. Despite Delta State boasting the highest number of higher institutions in Nigeria, Ijaw communities have been notably underserved, creating a gap in access to advanced learning opportunities.
“This initiative reflects a renewed commitment to uplifting the Ijaw people and addressing the glaring disparities in educational infrastructure within the state,” Prof. Okaba remarked. He underscored that the proposed institutions could serve as pivotal drivers of socio-economic development, equipping young people with skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive world.
The INC has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to prioritize and fast-track the passage of these critical bills. According to Prof. Okaba, their enactment will represent a landmark achievement not only for Ijaw communities but also for the broader goal of equitable development in Nigeria.
Residents of Patani and Bomadi have also expressed their gratitude to Senator Joel-Onowakpo for his vision and advocacy. Community leaders believe that the establishment of these institutions will transform the educational landscape of the region, creating opportunities for generations to come.
The INC reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote educational equity and empowerment for Ijaw people, reaffirming the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve these goals.
“This is more than just legislation; it is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ijaw people to secure a brighter future for their communities,” Prof. Okaba concluded.
As the bills await deliberation and passage in the Senate, hope remains high that they will herald a new era of progress for the Ijaw people in Delta State.
