The 4th coronation anniversary of Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, commenced on Monday, August 18, 2025, with a grand praise and worship ceremony at the Palace Church in Aghofen, Warri, Delta State .
The celebrations, themed ” Towards Iwere Renaissance Evolving Strategies for confronting land and language issues” promise to be a spectacular display of culture, tradition, and community spirit.
Week-Long Festivities
The anniversary celebrations will span seven days, featuring a range of activities that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Itsekiri people.
Some of the highlights include:
- Day 1: Praise and Worship, Palace Church Aghofen, Warri
- Day 2: Commissioning of Hospital Ugbuwangue, Warri, and and Itsekiri Language Competition for a children’s competition at the Palace Auditorium, Warri
- Day 3: Mini Regatta, Warri boat yard to Ode-Itsekiri, and Homage Paying at Big Warri palace
- Day 4: Anniversary/Homage Paying, Aghofen palace ground
- Day 5: Book Launch, “Arabic Figures & Itsekiri” by Lucky Ebojel, and a Drama Presentation at the Olu palace, Aghofen
- Day 6: Award of Royal Order of Iwere (ROI) to distinguished Itsekiri individuals, and a Special Commemorative Lecture on “Towards Iwere Renaissance”
- Day 7: Thanksgiving Service, Palace Church Aghofen
The fourths year coronation anniversary celebrations are significant not only for the Olu of Warri but also for the entire Itsekiri community.
They provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate their rich cultural heritage, while also paying homage to their monarch.
The celebrations also serve as a platform for promoting unity, peace, and development in the Warri Kingdom.
