For many people, the 28th Edition of the Arogbo-Ibe Day Festival 2026 was a celebration of culture, identity and heritage. But behind the colourful gathering was something deeper, the quiet sacrifices, financial contributions, personal commitments and collective efforts of people who ensured that the celebration became a reality.
It is against this background that the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Arogbo Clan Chapter, Ondo State, has expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to the successful hosting of the festival.
In an appreciation message issued through the Office of the Secretary, the council said the celebration was strengthened by the presence and support of Ijaw leaders, youths, community stakeholders, friends, well-wishers and members of the wider Ijaw Nation.
For the people of Arogbo-Ibe, cultural celebrations are not merely social gatherings. They provide an opportunity for generations to reconnect with their roots, celebrate their identity and remind younger people of the values and traditions inherited from their ancestors.
The IYC Arogbo Clan Chapter therefore described the support received during the 28th edition as invaluable, noting that every contribution, whether financial, logistical, moral, professional or through physical presence, helped to make the event successful.
The council particularly appreciated Comr. Noel Kuete, President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Western Zone, for honouring the celebration with his presence and demonstrating what it described as leadership and solidarity.
The council also extended special appreciation to Comr. Doubra Oketete, President of IYC Worldwide, and his leadership team for their continued commitment to the growth, unity and development of the Ijaw Nation.
Although represented at the celebration by the IYC Mobilization Officer, Comr. Oluderimo, the council said the participation of the leadership further demonstrated the importance of collective leadership and solidarity within the Ijaw family.
Importantly, the appreciation message recognised the often-unseen work that goes into promoting a major community celebration.
The council specifically acknowledged Comr. Tibiebi Doso, Comr. Ezekiel Ugouwoni, Barr. Elijah Nanaopiri, Doctor Kegbe, CEO of Arogbo Voice Media, Comr. Icon James, and the entire media team for their contributions, encouragement, publicity and unwavering support.
For the organisers, effective publicity was not simply about announcing an event. It was about ensuring that the story of Arogbo-Ibe, its people, culture and heritage reached audiences beyond the immediate community.
The acknowledgement therefore highlights the human side of community journalism, people who give their time, equipment, professional skills and personal resources because they believe that important community stories deserve to be told.
The IYC Arogbo Clan Chapter also remembered the numerous individuals whose contributions may not have received public recognition but whose efforts helped sustain the celebration.
From those who provided financial assistance to those who offered moral support, attended meetings, mobilised people, promoted the event or simply showed up when their presence mattered, the council said every contribution counted.
It thanked the brothers, sisters, friends, well-wishers and members of the Ijaw Nation who stood with Arogbo-Ibe during the celebration.
The message carries a simple but powerful reminder: successful community events are rarely the achievement of one person. They are built through collective sacrifice.
As the celebration becomes part of the history of Arogbo-Ibe, the IYC prayed for God’s continued blessings upon everyone who contributed to its success.
The council also called for the continued promotion of love, peace, unity and togetherness, expressing hope that the spirit witnessed during the 28th Arogbo-Ibe Day celebration would continue to strengthen relationships among the Ijaw people.
The appreciation message was signed by Comr. Oyinbo Timibra Justice, Secretary, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Arogbo Clan, Ondo State Chapter, Office of the Secretary.
Ultimately, the 28th Arogbo-Ibe Day was not only about a festival. It was about people, people who gave, people who showed up, people who supported, and people who believed that culture, identity and community are worth preserving.
Long Live Ijaw Nation!
Long Live IYC Worldwide!
Long Live IYC Western Zone!
Long Live Arogbo Clan!
Long Live Arogbo-Ibe!