Ògíamè Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, on Wednesday led a majestic regatta to the ancestral heartland of the Iwere (Itsekiri) nation, Ode-Itsekiri, as part of activities marking his 4th Coronation Anniversary.
The colourful procession, spearheaded by the royal red boat, featured a fleet of vibrantly decorated vessels sailing across the waterways. Each boat was adorned with unique colours and regalia, symbolising the diverse communities, families, and groups that make up the Itsekiri kingdom. The spectacle was both a cultural display and a unifying tribute to the shared heritage of the Itsekiri people.
The voyage, steeped in tradition and symbolism, reaffirmed the sovereignty and enduring legacy of the Warri throne. It was also seen as a bridge between the kingdom’s storied past and its vision for a progressive, united future under the Olu’s leadership.
On arrival at Ode-Itsekiri, popularly known as Big Warri, the event transitioned into a solemn homage-paying session. Dignitaries, high-ranking chiefs, and subjects gathered to honour the ancestral heritage and pay their respects to the revered throne of the Olu of Warri.
The anniversary celebrations continue on Thursday, the coronation day proper, with a cultural showcase at Aghofen, the royal palace. All events are being live-streamed on the Olu of Warri YouTube channel, giving the Itsekiri diaspora and well-wishers across the globe the opportunity to participate virtually.
The regatta is a key highlight of the year-long programme marking the fourth anniversary of Ògíamè Atuwatse III, who ascended the throne in 2021. The celebrations are designed to showcase Itsekiri culture, strengthen unity, and highlight the kingdom’s commitment to progress under the monarch’s reign., CFR, the Olu of Warri, on Wednesday led a majestic regatta to the ancestral heartland of the Iwere (Itsekiri) nation, Ode-Itsekiri, as part of activities marking his 4th Coronation Anniversary.
The colourful procession, spearheaded by the royal red boat, featured a fleet of vibrantly decorated vessels sailing across the waterways. Each boat was adorned with unique colours and regalia, symbolising the diverse communities, families, and groups that make up the Itsekiri kingdom. The spectacle was both a cultural display and a unifying tribute to the shared heritage of the Itsekiri people.
The voyage, steeped in tradition and symbolism, reaffirmed the sovereignty and enduring legacy of the Warri throne. It was also seen as a bridge between the kingdom’s storied past and its vision for a progressive, united future under the Olu’s leadership.
On arrival at Ode-Itsekiri, popularly known as Big Warri, the event transitioned into a solemn homage-paying session. Dignitaries, high-ranking chiefs, and subjects gathered to honour the ancestral heritage and pay their respects to the revered throne of the Olu of Warri.
The anniversary celebrations continue on Thursday, the coronation day proper, with a cultural showcase at Aghofen, the royal palace. All events are being live-streamed on the Olu of Warri YouTube channel, giving the Itsekiri diaspora and well-wishers across the globe the opportunity to participate virtually.
The regatta is a key highlight of the year-long programme marking the fourth anniversary of Ògíamè Atuwatse III, who ascended the throne in 2021. The celebrations are designed to showcase Itsekiri culture, strengthen unity, and highlight the kingdom’s commitment to progress under the monarch’s reign.
