The President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide, Professor Benjamin Ogele Okaba, has urged the Ijaw Nation to not lose hope in their quest for "self-actualization" as the year 2024 comes to an end, while reassuring them that the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria have made progress that is gradually bringing them closer to "our dream destination as a people."

Prof. Okaba, who made this known in a Christmas message he delivered few days to the holiday celebration, also called on the Ijaw Nation to thank God for bring them this far as well as they should embrace Christmas in the spirit of love for one another to which the Ijaw Nation is reputed for.

Below is the full text of the Christmas speech.

"My Fellow Ijaw People, as the festivities of the Christmas season light up our respective families and communities, let us take a moment of self introspection to reflect on the year’s journey.

"You will agree with me that 2024 has been a remarkable year, with a mix of ups and downs.

"As a people, we should not allow disillusionment and discouragement creep in even if our aspirations of a renewed environment and for better living conditions, and our ultimate goal of true federalism and self actualization seem unfulfilled.

"History has always showed us that our unity of purpose, resilience, perseverance and determination often bring triumph in the end.

"As a people we must always appreciate God Almighty for His all sufficient grace that has kept our dreams alive.

"Our modest efforts in the last couple of months may not have given us the success needed for the attainment of our goals of self actualization. However, the truth is that by the special grace of God and your unflinching support, we are better and closer to our dream destination as a people.

"We must therefore thank God for taking us thus far and deliberately review our progress in terms of the little gains and shortcomings, readjust our strategies, recharge our energies and re-launch our efforts, as we keep faith alive and trust in the possibilities, taking bold actions and make every moment of our journey count.

"May this special time of the year bring us closer together and strengthen the bonds of unity and solidarity that define us as a people.

"May the values of Christmas – compassion, kindness, and generosity – guide us as we celebrate the holiday season. May we remember those in dire need and show them the love and support that are the hallmark of our great Ijaw Nation.

"Wishing you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!"

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