By Admin 
DELTA: The Ijaw National Congress (INC), the umbrella body of the Ijaw ethnic nation, has called on the National Assembly leadership to fast-track the legislative process for bills to establish a School of Nursing in Patani and a Polytechnic in Bomadi, both in Delta State.
The proposed institutions aim to address the longstanding educational and developmental needs of Ijaw communities.
In a statement signed by the INC President-General, Prof. Benjamin O.G. Okaba, the group commended Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas for sponsoring the bill describing the move as a significant step towards addressing the historical neglect of Ijaw areas. “These bills represent a new dawn for the Ijaw nation, bringing hope to communities that have faced systemic marginalization in access to higher education,” Okaba said.
Prof. Okaba highlighted the Ijaw people’s struggle for equitable access to education in Delta State. “For decades, we have clamored for higher institutions in Ijaw areas, but our pleas were ignored despite Delta State boasting the highest number of tertiary institutions in the country,” he lamented.
The statement further criticized the disparity in educational development across ethnic groups in the state. “While other ethnic nationalities enjoy multiple universities, polytechnics, and colleges, the Ijaw people have been left behind. This is why Senator Joel-Onowakpo’s efforts are not only commendable but also historic,” he added.
The INC called on the National Assembly leadership to fast-track the legislative process for the bills, emphasizing their importance to the developmental aspirations of the Ijaw people. The group also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the initiative. “We urge President Tinubu to ensure these bills are passed and assented to promptly. This is an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusivity,” the statement said.