FOUNDING AND VISION (1991)
Isoko Ladies League International (ILLINT) was founded in 1991 by Reverend Betty Adhokorie, in recognition of:
- The need for unity among Isoko women.
- Her deep passionate about preserving and promoting Isoko culture, tradition, and language.
Rev. Betty observed that modernization and migration were causing younger generations to lose touch with their cultural roots. She believed that by bringing Isoko women together—whether by birth or marriage—the community could revive its rich heritage and pass it on to future generations.
EARLY YEAR INITIATIVES (1991 – 2000)
In its early years, ILLINT focused on cultural awareness and education throug.
- Language preservation programs, including Isoko language classes for children and adults
- Traditional events and festivals to celebrate Isoko customs
- Workshops on Isoko history and storytelling, ensuring oral traditions were passed down
- Women’s leadership forums, encouraging women to take active roles in cultural preservation
ILLINT organized regular meetings and cultural gatherings, where members discussed ways to strengthen Isoko identity both within Nigeria and in the diaspora..
Growth and Expansion (2001 – 2010)
As ILLINT grew, it gained recognition as a leading organization for Isoko cultural advocacy. During this period, the association:
- Established annual cultural festivals, showcasing Isoko music, dance, and traditional attire
- Partnered with schools to introduce Isoko cultural studies.
- Help sink boreholes for clean water.
- Encouraged Isoko women in the diaspora to participate in cultural preservation efforts
LAUNCHED
ILLINT was launched in the UK in 2005, where we raised funds that enabled us to help Ughole orphanage in Oleh.
ILLINT also became a strong voice for Isoko women’s empowerment, ensuring that women played a central role in decision-making within families and communities. We also run a skill centre in Oleh in Isoko South local government area of Delta state, training the next generation of mothers, then settling them free with a starter pack.
OUTREACH
ILLINT has taken part with relief during flood season; providing food, clothing, and supplies for children and babies
From December 2017 to date, food items and clothing has been freely given to Isoko women in all our villages selected by IDU. We have also made school uniforms for underprivileged school pupils and have distributed exercise books to several schools in Isoko community.
Modernisation and Legacy (2011 – Present)
In recent years, ILLINT has adapted to the digital age, using social media, online platforms, and virtual meetings to connect Isoko women across the world. The association now:
- Looking to run online Isoko language classes
- Hosts webinars on cultural heritage
- Collaborates with Isoko traditional leaders to preserve historical sites and artefacts
- Advocates for the inclusion of Isoko language in Nigerian education policies
Today, ILLINT remains a pillar of cultural preservation, ensuring that Isoko traditions, customs, and language continue to thrive for generations to come. Rev. Betty Adhokorie’s vision lives on, as Isoko women remain united in their mission to honour, preserve and celebrate their heritage.