Dr. Tari Chrispin Leads Drive for Ijaw Women’s Empowerment with Secretariat Launch
By Ebis Freeman, YENAGOA – The Secretariat Complex of the Ijaw Unity Ladies Initiative (IULI) was officially inaugurated in Okutukutu, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on June 10, 2026, with stakeholders from different sectors of society gathering to celebrate what was described as a new chapter in the pursuit of unity and empowerment for Ijaw women.
The event attracted prominent personalities, including political leaders, government officials, opinion leaders, community stakeholders, youths, ex-servicemen, and women committed to the advancement of the Ijaw nation.
Chairman of the occasion, Rt. Hon. Talford Ongolo, commended the founder of the organisation, Dr. Tari Chrispin, for her dedication and compassionate leadership. He described her as a woman willing to make sacrifices to alleviate the suffering of others and urged her to expand the organisation’s reach and showcase its activities through effective media engagement.
Ongolo also acknowledged the support provided by former President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, and Dr. Doodei Week, noting that the platform they created enabled Dr. Chrispin to acquire valuable experience that eventually contributed to the establishment of the organisation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bayelsa State Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barr. Japan Odaji, advised the leadership of IULI to remain focused on its objectives and pursue programmes capable of attracting both government and international recognition. He stressed the importance of transparency and unity among members.
Environmental activist, Surveyor Furoebi Akene, encouraged the organisation to remain steadfast despite challenges associated with humble beginnings. He urged the leadership to seek professional guidance and leverage the experience of established stakeholders.
Also speaking, veteran development practitioner, Madam Unity Ototo, who has spent over three decades in community development, urged the organisation to maintain a clear vision in order to achieve its goals and objectives.
Founder and host of the event, Dr. Tari Chrispin, expressed appreciation to the chairman of the occasion and other distinguished guests for honouring her invitation. She explained that the vision for the organisation was inspired by her passion for the welfare of Ijaw women, which began during her years of service in the Ijaw National Congress.
According to her, the emergence of the Ijaw Unity Ladies Initiative presents an opportunity to strengthen the collective voice of Ijaw women through collaboration, shared vision and strategic partnerships.
Dr. Chrispin stated that the organisation is committed to addressing the challenges confronting Ijaw women while empowering women and youths as a means of reducing social vices and enhancing family welfare.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the formal cutting of the ribbon by Mrs. Theresa Benjamin Okaba, wife of the former President of the Ijaw National Congress, followed by interactive sessions and group photographs.
Among dignitaries present at the event were Rt. Hon. Talford Ongolo and his wife, Akumere Talford Ongolo; Mrs. Theresa Okaba; Barr. Japan Odaji; Surveyor Furoebi Akene; Hon. Ebipadei Apaingolo; former Commissioner for Environment, Mrs. Martha Jenakumo; former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Justina Lere Charles; Chief Stanley Suobo; Dr. Gandy Egberibiri; Chief of Staff to the Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Dr. Solomon David; Technical Adviser, Madam Unity Ototo; Madam Evelyn Akhigbe; Hon. Lucky Kekebo, and several other notable personalities.
The inauguration of the secretariat marks a significant milestone for the Ijaw Unity Ladies Initiative as it seeks to champion women empowerment, social development and unity among Ijaw women across the Niger Delta.
