(DDM) – The Warri Kingdom has come alive with grand festivities as Ogiame Atuwatse III, the revered Olu of Warri, marks his 4th coronation anniversary.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the celebrations commenced on Monday, August 18, 2025, with a weeklong program of cultural, spiritual, sporting, and developmental activities.
The 4th anniversary commemorates four years since his coronation on August 21, 2021, a moment that ushered in a new era for the Itsekiri nation.
The Palace Church in Aghofen, Warri, hosted a spirit-filled praise and worship ceremony to officially launch the anniversary week.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Towards Iwere Renaissance: Evolving Strategies for Confronting Land and Language Issues,” underscores the importance of cultural preservation, heritage, and unity.
The Itsekiri kingdom, historically known as Iwere land, has long been celebrated for its rich culture, maritime heritage, and intellectual contributions.
Ogiame Atuwatse III, since ascending the throne, has consistently promoted cultural revival while balancing modernity with tradition.
One of the highlights of the anniversary is the commissioning of a new hospital in Ugbuwangue, Warri, aimed at expanding healthcare access for the community.
Health infrastructure remains a critical need in Delta State, and the hospital project demonstrates the monarch’s commitment to development beyond ceremonial functions.
Another key event is the children’s Itsekiri Language Competition designed to strengthen identity among the younger generation.
Language preservation is central to cultural continuity, and the initiative reflects the Olu’s vision to ensure that Itsekiri heritage is safeguarded for the future.
On the waters of Warri River, a traditional Mini Regatta has also been staged.
The boat race, which runs from the Warri boat yard to Ode-Itsekiri, reconnects the kingdom with its centuries-old maritime tradition.
The regatta is both a cultural display and a reminder of the Itsekiri people’s historical mastery of waterways and trade.
Homage-paying ceremonies have also been organized at the historic Big Warri Palace and at the Aghofen Palace ground.
These rituals remain deeply symbolic, reinforcing respect for the throne and continuity of royal authority.
The cultural program also includes the launch of “Arabic Figures & Itsekiri” authored by Lucky Ebojel.
The book combines linguistic scholarship with cultural insight, offering new understanding into the Itsekiri language.
In addition, a drama presentation is being staged at the Olu’s palace to creatively showcase Itsekiri traditions through performing arts.
Community service and recognition are equally important in this anniversary.
Distinguished sons and daughters of the kingdom are to be conferred with the Royal Order of Iwere (ROI).
The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to the advancement of the Itsekiri nation.
An intellectual highlight of the week is a commemorative lecture themed “Towards Iwere Renaissance.”
This lecture provides a platform for scholars, cultural leaders, and policymakers to discuss land ownership, identity, and cultural resilience.
Beyond intellectual discourse, sports have been given pride of place in the celebration.
A star-studded novelty football match is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
The game features Nigerian football legends including Jay Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, Victor Ikpeba, Emmanuel Amunike, and several other celebrated ex-internationals.
The football event promotes sportsmanship, physical fitness, and unity, while also adding glamour to the celebration.
Fans and community members are expected to fill the stands in what promises to be a memorable encounter between culture and sport.
Traditional dances and musical performances will complement the match, ensuring the celebration reflects both modern entertainment and cultural display.
The anniversary week will conclude with a grand thanksgiving service at the Palace Church.
This finale underscores the role of spirituality and faith in the Olu’s reign and in the lives of his people.
The thanksgiving symbolizes gratitude for four years of leadership, stability, and the hope for greater achievements ahead.
Ogiame Atuwatse III ascended the throne in August 2021 after succeeding Ogiame Ikenwoli, who passed away in December 2020.
His coronation was widely celebrated as a new chapter for the Warri Kingdom, with renewed emphasis on education, health, culture, and economic development.
Since becoming the 21st Olu of Warri, he has earned admiration both locally and internationally for his progressive outlook.
He has projected the Itsekiri voice in national discussions while also strengthening ties with global cultural institutions.
The Warri Kingdom, historically influential in the Niger Delta, remains central to Nigeria’s oil economy and cultural map.
This anniversary therefore carries both symbolic and practical importance, blending tradition with modern relevance.
For the Itsekiri people, the celebration is not just about the coronation of their monarch.
It is a reaffirmation of identity, unity, and collective aspiration for a brighter future.
Ogiame Atuwatse III’s four years have been marked by a conscious effort to revive language, protect ancestral lands, and inspire the youth.
His leadership style has been described by observers as consultative, innovative, and deeply rooted in heritage.
The anniversary program reflects this philosophy—embracing health, sports, education, arts, religion, and community service in one sweeping celebration.
Cultural historians note that such anniversaries also play a role in documenting traditions for future generations.
Through the regatta, language competition, drama, and thanksgiving, the Itsekiri culture is being archived in living form.
Guests from across Nigeria and the diaspora are expected to attend, underlining the Olu’s broad influence and national relevance.
The combination of royal ceremonies with modern elements like football ensures that all generations find connection in the celebration.
As the celebrations continue through the week, the Olu of Warri’s message remains consistent.
That message is one of unity, cultural revival, and the responsibility to build a kingdom that balances tradition with modern progress.
The 4th coronation anniversary of Ogiame Atuwatse III is not just a milestone of years.
It is a bold statement of identity, heritage, and leadership in the 21st century.