Jubilation swept through the Dr. Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, as Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete, a medical doctor from Delta State emerged as the president of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.
Dr. Okotete’s emergence came after hours of intense voting, sorting and counting for various national positions, before eyes turned to the marquee race of the night, the battle for IYC president.
Tension hung thick in the air as supporters, delegates and the entire Ijaw nation waited anxiously for the outcome that would shape the future of the influential youth body.
Dr. Okotete eventually emerged victorious at the 2026 IYC National Elective Convention after polling a decisive 71 votes to seal the top job and become President of the 10th National Executive Council.
The announcement triggered wild celebrations among his supporters, who erupted in songs and dances, waving banners and chanting victory slogans inside the hall.
In a gracious message, one of the aspirants for the position of spokesperson for the IYC, Comrade Johnmartins Ijere, congratulated the President Elect and urged him to use his office unite the council and advance the aspirations of Ijaw people.
“I, Johnmartins Ijere, congratulate Comrade Doubra Okotete on his emergence as President of the 10th National Executive Council of the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide. The expectations of our people are high and I am confident that, with the support of all well-meaning Ijaw sons and daughters, your leadership will advance the aspirations of Ijaw Nation,” he said.
Ijere also thanked his own backers: “To every delegate, leader, supporter, campaign team member, elder, friend and well-wisher who stood by me throughout this journey, I offer my deepest appreciation. Your encouragement, sacrifices, prayers and belief in our shared vision gave me the strength to present myself for service. Though we did not achieve the desired electoral outcome, we have built lasting relationships, inspired meaningful conversations and strengthened our collective commitment to the future of our people.”
He added that the triumph of Dr. Okotete ends a keenly contested race and marks the beginning of a new era in the leadership of the foremost Ijaw youth organisation.
