Ogiame Atuwatse III Donates N750 Million to Launch Iwere Trust Fund as Warri Kingdom Celebrates 4th Coronation Anniversary

In a powerful gesture of commitment to the growth and development of the Warri Kingdom, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III announced the official activation of the Iwere Trust Fund with a personal donation of N750 million, setting a bold tone for the celebrations of his 4th Coronation Anniversary.

The Trust Fund, unveiled at the start of the anniversary events, is envisioned as a catalyst for socio-economic advancement across the Warri Kingdom. His Majesty extended an open invitation to sons, daughters, partners, and friends of the kingdom to join in this noble cause, aimed at empowering communities, enhancing welfare, and securing a brighter future for generations to come.

This landmark announcement ushered in a day of grand celebration, as the Itsekiri nation gathered in their thousands to honour their monarch and commemorate four years since his ascension to the throne. The palace grounds at Aghofen were transformed into a vibrant spectacle of colour, tradition, and cultural magnificence, reflecting the deep reverence the people hold for their king.

Adorned in regal attire, sons and daughters of Iwere, alongside dignitaries, friends, and well-wishers, filled the palace with music, dance, and joyful homage-paying—a cherished tradition that continues to serve as a unifying force and symbol of collective identity in the kingdom.

Representing the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, at the celebration was the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, who delivered a congratulatory message to His Majesty. He described the king’s reign as a beacon of peace, unity, and purposeful leadership. Members of the Delta State House of Assembly were also in attendance, further emphasizing the significance of the occasion.

Yet the event was more than a celebration — it was a profound expression of loyalty, reverence, and communal pride. The homage-paying ceremony remains a living symbol of the Warri Crown’s enduring place as the heart of unity, tradition, and continuity for the Itsekiri people.

Expressing gratitude during the ceremony, His Majesty thanked his people and all well-wishers for their unwavering love and support. “May this joyous milestone bring the kingdom even closer together, inspiring its people to build a brighter, more prosperous future,” he remarked.

The celebrations have continued to attract visitors from across the world, drawn by the rich cultural heritage of the Warri Kingdom. The coronation anniversary has become a showcase of Itsekiri tradition and beauty, while also promoting cultural exchange and highlighting the vital role of traditional institutions in national unity and sustainable development.

As the Warri Kingdom reflects on four years of transformative leadership under Ogiame Atuwatse III, the launch of the Iwere Trust Fund marks a new chapter — one defined by vision, progress, and an unwavering dedication to the future of Iwere land.