The Imperative of Ijaw Cultural Renaissance Amidst Industrial Development – Boladei Igali

Recent human development, at least for the past 400 years has been dominated by European civilization. European culture, traditions, history  language, religions, philosophy, world views, cuisine, etc.

However, from the 1800s, Japanese rapid economic growth and social advancement, came amidst a cultural revival or rather revolution. Despite initial discrimination and rejection, they held strong and today, their distinct identity and heritage are appreciated worldwide. The Indian and Arabs have also stamped the imprimatur of their historical and cultural expressions on the global scene. 

Nigeria is a great and very diverse country of varied cultural expressions and forms. While Hausa, Yoruba and Ibo are unarguably, the dominant Big Three, Ijaw the fourth largest ethnic nationality is much unappreciated and easily clasped into a big basket of Minorities. The history and language of Ijaw, although known by colonial anthropologists as  aboriginal and most ancient indigenous group in Southern Nigeria are little recognised or appreciated. The ijaw Nation, though geographically contiguous, is, itself, disintegrated in six different littoral states of the country. Okay, but  with grave implications for cultural survival and proper feelings of acceptance and inclusion in some cases. In many areas, the Ijaw language is almost facing extinction! 

The truth is that cultural revival and preservation can go hand in hand with modern socio-economic development and also reinforce greater political relevance and inclusion at the centre.

Under my watch, and with apology to mo one, the Ijaw factor, Ijaw culture, upholding of the identity and overall protection and promotion of our interest and the imperative of living in peace and harmony will be a cornerstone of policy and would be vigorously pursued.

Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali is one of the front line PDP Governorship aspirant in Bayelsa State. 

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