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Diaspora Brilliance at the INC-USA Inaugural Convention

From August 29th to 31st, 2025, over 150 Itsekiris from across North America gathered at the Hyatt Regency Miami for the Inaugural Convention of the Itsekiri National Congress USA (INC-USA) — a milestone event that blended culture, intellect, and global ambition.

Delegates rise for the Itsekiri and U.S. anthems at the Hyatt Regency Miami.

The convention opened with prayers led by Mr. Dickson Kuyastemi, followed by a passionate rendition of the Itsekiri National Anthem, “E Arọ Olorire,” performed by Mrs. Alero Pirah, and the U.S. National Anthem sung by Miss Tsolaye Dorsu — a harmonious moment of dual belonging.

Mr. Amorighoye commended the Oma Iwere Association of Florida for hosting the convention, praising their commitment to organization and excellence.

INC-USA President Otse Amorighoye inspiring delegates during his address.

Ideas That Will Shape Iwere Land’s Future

The Miami sessions were as intellectually charged as they were emotional, setting a new standard for diaspora engagement.

Prof. Jonathan Tsetimi presenting on Education, Technology, and AI.

Prof. Jonathan Tsetimi, Professor of Industrial Mathematics at Delta State University Abraka, delivered a powerful lecture on “The Transformative Role of Education, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence in Strengthening Iwere Land.”

 

Engr. Atse Onuwaje urging Itsekiris to build global networks of excellence.

Engr. Atse Onuwaje, CEO of Fortech LLC (USA), followed with “Bridging Excellence Across Continents.” He introduced the concept of critical mass — mobilizing Itsekiris across professions to create mentorship pipelines and investment networks.

Dr. Bemigho Odonmeta presenting “A Healthier Itsekiri Nation.”
Rounding off was Dr. Bemigho Ayo Odonmeta, Consultant Nephrologist and Medical Director of Lana Hospital, Sapele, who spoke on “A Healthier Itsekiri Nation: Modern Care for Every Family, Everywhere.”
Delegates engaging in thematic discussions on Business, Education, and Health.

After the plenary sessions, delegates divided into three breakout groups — Business & Technology, Education, and Health — to brainstorm actionable projects.

Business & Technology: Led by Mr. Fiogho Tonwe, members proposed installing solar-powered Starlink hubsin Itsekiri communities to boost internet access and digital trade.
Education: Coordinated by Mr. Emmanuel Pirah, the group called for AI-assisted learning and diaspora mentorship programs.
Health: Headed by Dr. Jackie Ejuwa, participants explored partnerships with Nigerian telecom companies to expand telehealth services.

By day’s end, Mr. Amorighoye announced that INC-USA’s first official pilot project will focus on telehealth, providing access to healthcare for families across Iwere Land — a concrete step from dialogue to development.

Delegates and guests arriving for the INC-USA Gala Night.

As night fell, the Hyatt Regency ballroom transformed into a symphony of red, gold, and coral.
The Gala Night became the soul of the convention — where elegance met emotion, and heritage danced with the future.

It began with 10-year-old Oritsejolomisan Abigail Wilson, whose angelic voice filled the hall with the Itsekiri anthem.
The crowd rose in awe — joy, applause, and pride blending into one moment of shared identity.

Abigail Wilson performing the Itsekiri anthem to a standing ovation.

The rhythm built as the Omoko Dance Troupe took the stage, drums echoing like waves across the Warri River, reminding everyone that culture remains the Itsekiri heartbeat.

The Omoko dancers brought ancestral rhythm and contemporary energy.

The night climaxed when Itsekiri-born superstar Oritsefemielectrified the ballroom with “Double Wahala,” “Gbubemi,”and “Mercies of the Lord.”
Elders and youth filled the dance floor — joy, rhythm, and unity moving as one.

Oritsefemi performing live at the INC-USA Gala Night.

From Miami to Warri: Bridging Oceans, Building Futures

Beyond the glamour, the INC-USA Convention carried a message that reached home: Diaspora ideas must return to build the homeland.

Delegates pledged to support education, telehealth, and cultural initiatives across Warri, Koko, Sapele, and the creeks of Iwere Land.

INC-USA leaders and delegates celebrating a historic moment of unity.
“The river never forgets its source — and neither will we,” said one elder delegate, capturing the soul of the diaspora movement.

Click to Watch: INC-USA Gala Night (15 sec video by Retimi ooo Visuals)

Experience the rhythm, color, and pride of Itsekiri culture in Miami.

The INC-USA Inaugural Convention was more than an event — it was an awakening.
A generation of Itsekiris abroad found new rhythm and responsibility, bound by a shared belief that progress begins where pride lives.

From the skyline of Miami to the creeks of Delta, one truth resonated louder than any drumbeat:

The Itsekiri Nation is united, organized, and unstoppable. 

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📸 Photo Gallery: itsekirinationalcongress.org/gallery
💬 Follow INC-USA: @itsekirinationalcongress |@ItsekiriUSA
🌐 Official Website: www.itsekirinationalcongress.org

 

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