Sen Onowapko-Thomas Joins Gov Oborevwori, Gov Sanwo-Olu, Others To Celebrate Olu Of Warri’s 5th Coronation Anniversary

By Anthonia N Okwuolise, Abuja

WARRI, DELTA STATE – It was a celebration of culture, tradition and unity in Warri as Senator Joel Onowapko-Thomas joined Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry and other distinguished guests to mark the fifth coronation anniversary of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri.

The gathering at the Aghofen, Warri, brought together prominent personalities and sons and daughters of the Warri Kingdom, many of whom travelled from different parts of Nigeria and beyond to celebrate the monarch and the rich heritage of the Warri people.

The 10-day celebration, which runs from August 14 to 23, is themed “Global Homecoming – Celebrating Our Cultural Renaissance, Unity and Transformational Progress.” The theme captures the spirit of the anniversary, which is not only about marking five years on the throne but also about celebrating the cultural identity, unity and progress of the Warri Kingdom.

Ogiame Atuwatse III ascended the throne on August 21, 2021, as the 21st Olu of Warri. Five years into his reign, his coronation anniversary has become an occasion for the kingdom to reflect on the journey so far, celebrate its heritage and look towards the future with renewed confidence.

Since his ascension, the monarch has placed considerable emphasis on peace, unity, cultural renaissance and youth empowerment, while continuing to promote the rich history and traditions of the Warri people.

For Senator Onowapko-Thomas, the occasion was a fitting opportunity to honour the monarch and celebrate the values that continue to hold the Warri Kingdom together.

The Senator congratulated Ogiame Atuwatse III on the milestone and commended his commitment to the peace, unity and development of the kingdom.

He noted that traditional rulers have an important role to play in preserving the identity of their people, promoting unity and providing a sense of direction, particularly at a time when communities are facing rapid social and economic challenges.

Onowapko-Thomas also highlighted the importance of investing in young people and preserving cultural heritage for future generations, describing the Olu’s emphasis on these areas as significant to the continued growth and relevance of the Warri Kingdom.

On behalf of himself, his family and the people of the Delta South Senatorial District, the Senator extended his warm congratulations to His Majesty and wished him many more years of peaceful and impactful reign.

He prayed that the Olu would continue to receive the wisdom, strength and good health required to lead the kingdom, while expressing his hope for greater peace, prosperity and transformational progress across Iwere land, Delta State and Nigeria.

The presence of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other distinguished Nigerians added colour and significance to the celebration, reflecting the broad respect and goodwill enjoyed by the Warri traditional institution.

Beyond the ceremony itself, the anniversary has provided an opportunity for the global Warri Kingdom to return home, reconnect with its roots and celebrate a culture that has remained an important part of the history and identity of the Niger Delta.

As the celebration continues through August 23, the atmosphere across Warri remains one of pride, joy and togetherness, with the people celebrating not only five years of Ogiame Atuwatse III’s reign but also the enduring strength of the Warri Kingdom.

Senator Onowapko-Thomas wished His Majesty continued success on the throne and expressed confidence that the years ahead would bring even greater achievements to the kingdom and its people.

“Congratulations to His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, on this remarkable milestone. May your reign continue to be blessed with wisdom, peace, good health and greater accomplishments for Iwere land and Nigeria at large. Ogiame Suoooo!”