The ancient Warri Kingdom was aglow with pride and celebration as His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, formally conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of Utukpa-Oritse of Warri Kingdom upon Her Excellency, Oluremi Tinubu, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The historic ceremony, held at the revered Aghofen, was more than a traditional rite, it was a deeply symbolic homecoming. Proudly tracing her maternal roots to the Itsekiri nation, the First Lady returned not merely as Nigeria’s foremost woman, but as a distinguished daughter of the soil.
The investiture marked a reaffirmation of ancestral bonds and a celebration of a journey defined by service, resilience, and national impact.
In a moment rich with emotion and cultural grandeur, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III extolled the First Lady’s dedication to public service and her dignified representation of Nigeria on both national and global stages. By conferring upon her the revered title of Utukpa-Oritse, the throne of Warri acknowledged her as a cultural ambassador and an honoured custodian of Itsekiri heritage.
Further underscoring the significance of the occasion, Her Excellency was decorated with the Royal Order of Iwere (ROI), the second-highest honour within the Warri Kingdom. This rare distinction is reserved for only the most esteemed sons, daughters and allies of the Itsekiri nation, signifying exceptional merit and unwavering commitment to the advancement of the kingdom.
The ceremony drew an extraordinary gathering of royalty, political leaders and dignitaries from across Nigeria. Among those in attendance were His Excellency, Sheriff Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State; His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife; and His Royal Majesty, Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi I, the Dein of Agbor, alongside an array of respected Royal Fathers, senior government officials, and distinguished guests.
The grandeur of the day reflected the enduring strength of traditional institutions in Nigeria and their vital role in preserving identity, unity and continuity. Warri Kingdom once again demonstrated its stature as a beacon of cultural excellence and royal dignity.
In extending heartfelt congratulations to the new Ojoye, His Majesty prayed that the renewed bond between the First Lady and her ancestral homeland would continue to inspire progress, deepen unity, and foster prosperity for the Itsekiri nation and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
