By Sunday Apah
The President of the Iwere Knights Association (IKA), Mr. Taiye Ajiyen, has called on members of the association and their families to continually celebrate unity, resilience and shared progress, as the association marked its End-of-Year Party on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
Speaking at the colourful gathering, Ajiyen described the occasion as a moment of gratitude to God and a celebration of the collective journey of the association since its inception.
In a statement issued at the event, Ajiyen recalled that the first End-of-Year Get-Together of the association was held in December 2009, noting that the association has recorded significant growth and stability over the years.
He said the annual gathering was designed to bring members and their immediate families together to thank God for life, strengthen bonds of friendship, and usher in a new year filled with hope and opportunities.
The IKA President acknowledged the unwavering support of members’ wives and families, particularly for their hospitality during monthly meetings held in members’ homes over the years.
He expressed appreciation for their understanding and continued encouragement, even after the association resolved to centralise its meeting venue in early 2025, describing family support as a vital pillar of the association’s success.
Ajiyen further restated the core vision of the Iwere Knights Association, which he described as a platform of well-meaning Itsekiri professionals committed to advancing the collective economic, social and cultural interests of members, preserving Itsekiri heritage, and protecting the territorial and political integrity of the Itsekiri people.
He expressed confidence that with sustained unity and family backing, the association would continue to achieve its set objectives.
Reviewing activities of the out-gone year, the President announced an increase in membership and formally welcomed a new member, Mr. Oritsema Omatseye, whom he described as a reputable IT professional expected to add value to the association.
He also thanked God that no life was lost among members, while commending the maturity and wisdom of Itsekiri leaders in navigating political and boundary challenges that threatened peace in the Itsekiri homeland.
In his closing remarks, the Vice President of the association, Elder Charles Awani, commended members, their wives and families for their unity, dedication and sacrifices toward the growth of the Iwere Knights Association.
He thanked God Almighty for His protection, grace and mercy over the association throughout the out-gone year, noting that peace and progress prevailed among members.
Awani offered prayers for continued good health, prosperity and divine wisdom for all members and their households, while praying for stronger brotherhood within the association and enduring peace and advancement for the Itsekiri people in 2026 and beyond.
