A Historic Celebration in the Heart of Warri Kingdom
The Warri Kingdom has come alive as His Majesty Ògíamè Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, begins a week-long celebration marking his 4th Coronation Anniversary. The opening service at the Palace Church in Aghofen was filled with songs of praise, thanksgiving, and heartfelt prayers as the Itsekiri Nation reflected on four years of peace, progress, and prosperity under his reign.
The service was more than a worship gathering, it was a spiritual affirmation of God’s faithfulness and a collective prayer for continued wisdom, unity, and prosperity in the kingdom.
Key Events for Olu of Warri’s 4th Coronation Anniversary
The celebrations was packed with cultural, spiritual, and developmental events, each highlighting the Olu’s vision for the future of the Iwere Nation.
1. Health and Social Development
- Commissioning of Ugbuwangue Hospital, a new facility that strengthens healthcare delivery in Warri and surrounding communities.
2. Language and Heritage Preservation
- An Itsekiri Language Competition for children at the Palace Auditorium, ensuring the younger generation embraces their cultural identity.
3. Sports and Entertainment
- Novelty football matches for men and women, featuring Nigerian football legends, blending sport with celebration.
4. Cultural Renaissance
- Mini Regatta from Warri boat yard to Ode-Itsekiri.
- Homage-paying ceremonies at Big Warri Palace and Aghofen grounds.
- Book Launch of Arabic Figures & Itsekiri by Lucky Ebojel.
5. Honours and Reflection
- Award Ceremony for the prestigious Royal Order of Iwere.
- Drama performance highlighting Itsekiri heritage.
- Commemorative Lecture on “Towards Iwere Renaissance: Evolving Strategies for Confronting Land and Language Issues.”
6. Thanksgiving Service
The celebrations concludes with a grand thanksgiving service at the Palace Church, uniting the Itsekiri people in prayer, gratitude, and renewed commitment to growth.
Olu Atuwatse III: A Reign of Vision and Unity
Since ascending the throne in 2021, Olu Atuwatse III has been celebrated for his progressive leadership, blending tradition with innovation. His reign has emphasized healthcare, education, culture, peace building, and economic empowerment, strengthening the Warri Kingdom’s role as a cultural and economic hub in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
Why This Anniversary Matters
The 4th Coronation Anniversary is not just a milestone for the king, it is a celebration of the Itsekiri people’s resilience, unity, and cultural pride. It reaffirms the kingdom’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern development.
For the Iwere Nation, this week long event is both a tribute to history and a roadmap to the future, reinforcing Warri Kingdom as a beacon of tradition, faith, and leadership in Nigeria and beyond.
