By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, and the Omatamudieyin of Warri Kingdom, Chief Omolubi, have praised His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, for his unwavering commitment to sportsmanship and healthy living.
The commendation comes as the monarch prepares to host a star-studded novelty football match as part of activities marking his 4th coronation anniversary. The event, billed for August 19, 2025, at the Olu Palace, will celebrate retired Nigerian football legends while promoting fitness and unity within the community.
The Coronation Novelty Match will parade some of Nigeria’s biggest football icons, including Victor Ikpeba, Kanu Nwankwo, Austin JJ Okocha, Emmanuel Amunike, Yakubu Ayegbeni, George Finidi, Austin Eguavoen, and Ifeanyi Ekwueme.
The Iwere Allstars team will be led in goal by Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, and will also feature Hon. Emma Nunu, Chief Omolubi, Chief Maku, Chief Dr. Godday Erewa, Hon. Ogbe Eke, and Hon. Onos Oborevwori, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission.
Their opponents, the Chevron Allstars, will be captained by Engr. Tony Sifo and will include Prince Toju Emiko, Prince Godstime Emiko, Engr. Igho Ekakitie, Victor Ikpeba, Kanu Nwankwo, Mutiu Adepoju, Taribo West, Ifeanyi Udeze, Delali Tawiah (the Saurdana of Katsina), Julius Aghahowa, Garba Lawal, and Peterside Idah, among other notable players.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Ikpeba said, “We appreciate His Royal Majesty for including us in his 4th Coronation Anniversary celebration. His commitment to promoting football and honoring our legacy is truly commendable.”
Chief Omolubi added, “This novelty match not only celebrates sportsmanship but also highlights the talents and vitality of the Itsekiri people. It reflects the Olu’s passion for sports and healthy living.”
The match will kick off at 4:30 p.m., preceded by a female novelty game as a curtain raiser. Guests will also be treated to Itsekiri cultural dance performances.
This initiative continues the Olu’s tradition of using sports as a tool for unity and wellness. Notably, during his first coronation anniversary, he led a Peace Walk, further demonstrating his dedication to community engagement and youth development.