Kaiama, Bayelsa

Kaiama is a town in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area. Located about a 30-minute drive from Yenagoa, the state capital, it is historically significant as the birthplace of Major Isaac Adaka Boro, an Ijaw nationalist who proclaimed the Niger Delta Republic in 1966.
Kaiama, located in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, lies at latitude 5° 7' 10" N and longitude 6° 18' 3" E. The town also hosts the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp for Bayelsa State.
The town is historically significant as the site where the Kaiama Declaration was made on December 11, 1998. This declaration included several key resolutions, most notably asserting that all land and natural resources, including mineral resources within Ijaw territory, are the collective property of Ijaw communities. Additionally, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) declared that it would no longer recognize any decrees enacted without the participation and consent of the Ijaw people.
Situated within a rainforest, Kaiama is distinguished by its swampy terrain and lush vegetation. Unlike other riverine Ijaw towns such as Brass, Bakana, and Akassa, which are located on white sand islands, Kaiama's environment features tall palm trees, broad-leaved plantain trees, and a dense green canopy.
The town receives rainfall throughout the year, including during the dry season. Locals note that it seldom goes a month without rain, contributing to its reputation for having a consistently humid climate.
On December 11, 1998, Ijaw youths from various clans across the Ijaw nation convened in Kaiama, Bayelsa State, to form the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and adopt the Kaiama Declaration. The declaration attributed Nigeria's political challenges to "the struggle for the control of oil mineral resources" and raised concerns about environmental degradation in Ijawland, which it linked to the operations of transnational oil companies and the Nigerian government. It argued that this degradation stemmed from the denial of the Ijaw people's rights to ownership and control of their land and resources.
The Kaiama Declaration outlined several resolutions, notably asserting that all land and natural resources, including mineral resources within Ijaw territory, are the collective property of Ijaw communities. It further stated that the IYC would no longer recognize any decrees enacted without the participation and consent of the Ijaw people. The declaration also called for the withdrawal of military forces from the region and warned oil companies that relying on military protection would cause them to be regarded as adversaries.
Kaiama is recognized for its welcoming and hospitable residents, many of whom are involved in petty trading and fishing. The town's traditional ruler, who has led the community for over two decades, plays an active role in engaging with residents and introducing NYSC members to local traditions.
The cultural practices in Kaiama reflect the beliefs of the Ijaw people. A distinct aspect of their culture is reflected in their language and greetings. For example, the Izon phrase “Izon–I seriidou waa?” translates to “Did you make it back from the dead?” It reflects the belief that sleep symbolizes death, while waking signifies a return to life. These greetings carry cultural and historical significance that extends beyond a simple "Good morning."
Kaiama is easily accessible from Delta State, with its entrance marked by a prominent hilly incline at the first "T" junction in Bayelsa when coming from Ughelli. The town is located about 30 minutes from Yenagoa and is known for its cool and humid climate.
The town has evolved into a hub of cultural exchange, largely due to the presence of NYSC members, who often share experiences of their time in Kaiama. Many appreciate the openness and hospitality of the local community, with some, including former corps members.