The Ijaw National Congress, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw people, is approaching a critical moment as preparations intensify for its upcoming convention and leadership elections scheduled for March 2026. Established in 1991, the Congress was formed to unite the Ijaw people and promote their collective political, cultural, and socio-economic interests across the Niger Delta.
Since its inception, the INC has played a central role in advancing Ijaw unity and strengthening national consciousness among its people. It has also remained vocal on issues affecting the Niger Delta, particularly environmental degradation, pollution, and long-standing demands for justice, equity, and resource control.
As the elections draw nearer, conversations around leadership have gained prominence within Ijaw land. Many stakeholders believe the moment calls for purposeful and experienced leadership capable of navigating both internal unity and external advocacy at a time of renewed socio-political challenges in the region.
Unity has been identified as a major pillar for sustainable development and collective progress within the Ijaw nation. Observers note that divisions and leadership struggles in the past have often weakened the collective bargaining power of the people, making the forthcoming election a defining test for the Congress.
Amid the growing discourse, High Chief McDonald Igbadiwei, Prime Minister of the ancient Gbaraun Kingdom, has emerged as a prominent contender for the leadership of the INC. His candidacy has attracted endorsements from political leaders, community stakeholders, and opinion leaders within the Ijaw nation.
Supporters describe High Chief Igbadiwei as a leader with proven capacity, strong character, and a track record of service to the Ijaw people. They point to his previous roles within the INC, where he served as Publicity Secretary and Organising Secretary, positions through which he was said to have contributed to strengthening the internal structure and cohesion of the Congress.
Beyond his involvement in the INC, High Chief Igbadiwei also served as a member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, representing Constituency 4 of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. During his tenure, he was credited with advocating policies and initiatives focused on human capacity development, community empowerment, and grassroots participation in governance.
The struggle for the liberation of the Ijaw nation and the broader demand for resource control in the Niger Delta remains a central issue for the Congress. Advocates argue that the fight is rooted in justice and fairness, particularly in addressing environmental damage caused by decades of oil exploration and the economic marginalization of oil-producing communities.
Within this context, supporters of Igbadiwei believe his experience in governance and grassroots mobilization positions him to effectively advance the INC’s long-standing objectives. They argue that the Congress requires leadership with both passion and resilience to confront contemporary political and economic realities affecting the Niger Delta.
Hon. Wilson Ayakpo Dauyegha, a former member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, is among those who have publicly thrown their weight behind Igbadiwei’s candidacy. Dauyegha described the moment as a defining period for the Ijaw nation and stressed the importance of electing a leader capable of translating collective aspirations into measurable progress.
According to him, the INC must be led by someone with vision, exposure, and the ability to listen to diverse voices across Ijaw communities. He maintained that Igbadiwei embodies these qualities and has demonstrated commitment to unity and purposeful leadership over the years.
As the March 7, 2026 election date approaches, attention is increasingly focused on the role of delegates, whose votes will determine the future direction of the Congress. Stakeholders have urged them to prioritize unity, experience, and credibility in making their choice.
The outcome of the election is expected to shape the trajectory of the Ijaw National Congress at a time when socio-economic pressures, environmental concerns, and political realignments continue to affect the Niger Delta. Many within the Ijaw nation see the decision as one that will either strengthen or weaken their collective voice in the years ahead.
