The second day of the week-long festivities marking the fourth coronation anniversary of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, was a spectacular tapestry of sporting nostalgia, youthful cultural pride, and a landmark commitment to community healthcare, underscoring the monarch’s vision for a holistic and thriving kingdom.
The evening’s headline event was a star-studded novelty football match that sent waves of excitement through the packed palace grounds. In a rare and thrilling spectacle, legends of the famed Atlanta ‘96 Super Eagles Olympic gold medalists team laced up their boots once more, sharing the pitch with the kingdom’s highly esteemed and youthful chiefs, as well as other vibrant sons of Warri.
The atmosphere was electric as the crowd cheered on every dribble, pass, and goal, witnessing an exhilarating display of football prowess that bridged generations. The match served as a thrilling culmination to the day’s events, symbolising the kingdom’s unifying spirit and deep passion for sports. Dignitaries, traditional leaders, and thousands of enthusiastic supporters were united in a joyous celebration of their monarch’s reign.
Beyond the glamour of the football pitch, the day was equally significant for its profound investments in the kingdom’s future—its youth and its health.
Earlier, the palace courtyard had resonated with the eloquent sounds of heritage as children participated in an exciting Itsekiri Language Competition. The young contestants captivated the audience with vibrant storytelling, poetic recitations, and powerful spoken word performances, all delivered in the native Itsekiri tongue. The event was a joyful and poignant reminder of the importance of cultural preservation. Winners were honoured with significant prizes, an encouragement from the throne to continue being proud custodians of the Itsekiri language and traditions.
“In the voices of these children, we hear the future of the Itsekiri Nation,” a palace official remarked. “Their fluency and pride ensure that the legacy of our people will not only be remembered but will continue to thrive.”
In a demonstration of compassionate leadership, His Majesty also attended the historic commissioning of the Renewed Hope Mother and Childcare Hospital at Ugbuwangwe. This state-of-the-art, 80-bed facility, built by the Presidency through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulure, stands as a testament to successful collaboration between the traditional institution and the federal government.
The hospital is designed to provide quality healthcare and specialised services for mothers and children, addressing a critical need in the community and representing a brighter, healthier future for countless families. His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori was represented at the ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Ejiro.
Speaking at the commissioning, His Majesty expressed his deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the significant contribution. He stated that the hospital reflects a shared desire for holistic development and aligns with his deep compassion for the most vulnerable in society. This milestone is hailed as a major achievement in the kingdom’s ongoing journey toward improved healthcare and socio-economic development.
The anniversary celebration continues today with a spectacular Regatta on the Warri River bound for Ode-Itsekiri, the ancestral home. The waterway will come alive with traditionally adorned boats and canoes, showcasing vibrant colours and intricate designs in a breathtaking display of seamanship and cultural pride, further highlighting the kingdom’s rich maritime heritage.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
