Olu of Warri’s 5th Coronation Anniversary Begins August 14

The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, will mark his fifth coronation anniversary with a 10-day celebration featuring cultural displays, sporting competitions, royal ceremonies and community engagements across the kingdom in Delta state.

The anniversary, themed “Global Homecoming: Celebrating Our Cultural Renaissance, Unity and Transformational Progress,” will run from August 14 to 23, with the programme designed to bring Itsekiris at home and abroad together, while showcasing the cultural heritage and transformation of Warri Kingdom.

The activities will open on August 14 with a Praise Day at Nana College, Warri, followed by the Warri Unity Games at Federal Government College, Warri, on August 15.

Other highlights include the Grand Finale Bini Riva Live at Oboghoro, Warri North LGA, Bike and Scooter Competition, Itsekiri Language Competition for children, four days of homage-paying, a Royal Boat Regatta, football match and a thanksgiving service.

Speaking at a press conference at the Palace of the Olu of Warri on Monday, the Chairman of the Warri Council of Chiefs and Oversight Committee, Chief (Dr.) Engr. Oma Eyewuoma, said the anniversary was a significant opportunity to promote the kingdom’s cultural renaissance, unity and development.

The statement was read on his behalf by the Ogwolusan of Warri, Chief Brown Mene, in the presence of other prominent chiefs, including Gabriel Awala, the Uwangue; Engr. Tony Onuwaje, the Oshodin; Eugene Ikomi, Secretary, Warri Council of Chiefs and Olulaye; Mrs. Esther Okotie-Eboh, the Iye; Elijah Temile, the Olujuwa; Tsuwa Oyemami, the Ikaye; Walter Boyo, the Osenoluete; Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, the Ojogun; and Dr. Anthony Akoji, the Arun-Igala.

The committee also announced a strategic partnership between the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, and Warri Kingdom to promote tourism, investment and youth empowerment.

It said the anniversary reflects the Olu’s vision of reconnecting Itsekiris globally, while initiatives such as the Iwere Innovation Hub seek to equip young people with digital skills, software engineering and entrepreneurship opportunities.