The Man Super Comr. Joseph Evah Is A Kind of Messiah: Ijaw Nation Should Be Thankful

THE Man Super Comrade Joseph Evah, Founder and Coordinator of the Ijaw Monitoring Group, IMG, is one of a kind; a Personality whose generosity and activism the Ijaws should never take for granted. His contributions to the cause of the Ijaw Nation, the Nigerdelta and humanity in general are worth applauding and emulating.

AIV takes delight in sharing with you an article dedicated to his patriotism, activism and liberality:

NIGERDELTANS ARE NOT LAZY: Showcasing Resilience and Empowerment in the Aftermath of Conflict

Following the devastating impact of the Biafra-Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), the Igbo people underwent a remarkable journey of self-discovery, resulting in a renewed commitment to self-employment, business, and entrepreneurship. This same spirit of resilience has been witnessed among the Niger Deltans, particularly the Ijaw community, in the wake of the Ijaw/OPC-Yoruba clashes that led to significant loss of life, destruction of property, and displacement in Lagos.

In response to these challenges, the Ijaw Monitoring Group (IMG) has been at the forefront of economic empowerment since 2002, initiating regular micro-finance grants to alleviate economic hardships and reduce idleness among youths and women. Through the mobilisation of cooperative societies, town unions, youth groups, women organisations, and retirees, the IMG has successfully fostered a network of entrepreneurs involved in various trades such as farming, petty trading, food processing, poultry farming, dry cleaning, barbering, and fashion design.

The trade fair held on 17 August 2024 in Lagos served as a powerful testament to the potential of the Niger Deltans. The event showcased a vibrant array of businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, highlighting the diverse talents and industrious nature of the people.

Addressing a mammoth crowd and international media, Comrade Joseph Evah, a prominent Ijaw leader, declared, “NIGERDELTANS ARE NOT LAZY.” He went on to present cheques to over 50 organisations, town unions, and cooperative societies for further empowerment. Among the beneficiaries were the Niger Delta Blind People’s Association, Niger Delta Widows Union, Nigerian Dwarf Association (Niger Delta branch), Niger Delta Physically Challenged People’s Forum, South-South People Forum, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Lagos, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Lagos, Niger Delta Deaf People Association, Ijaw Women Leadership Forum, Ijaw Communities Leadership Forum, Niger Delta Women Forum, student groups, elders’ associations, and market women, among others.

The event, which included tours of business stands and various exhibition pavilions, underscored the ongoing efforts of the Niger Delta communities to rebuild and thrive in the face of adversity. It was a powerful reminder that, despite the challenges of the past, the Niger Deltans are a resilient people, committed to economic growth and self-sufficiency.

Credit: Ijaw Monitoring Group