By Jose Oby 
WARRI, DELTA STATE –
His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, on Monday officially swore in the newly elected executives of the Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths Association (UIYA) at a private ceremony held in his palace.
The monarch donated N50,000,000 naira to the purse of the new association tasked them to maintain integrity and be proper ambassadors of Itsekiri youths all over the world. He also unveiled the new emblem of the new association shortly after the swearing-in ceremony at his Warri Residence.
The brief but historic ceremony, which took place earlier today had invited dignitaries in attendance.
It marked the formal inauguration of the new leadership of the foremost Itsekiri youth body following the successful election held on Saturday, August 30, at the Olu’s palace.
Joseph Okotie, who emerged victorious in the polls, was sworn in as President of the association and pledged to steer the youths of Warri Kingdom toward unity, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic advancement.
Also sworn in were:
1st Vice President: Tsaye Mene
2nd Vice President: Stephen Amejuma
3rd Vice President: Lily-white Omasanjuwa Esigbone
4th Vice President: Asin Blessing
Secretary-General: Edward Jakpa
Assistant Secretary: Laura Oritseweyinmi
PRO: Gbubemi Ejesi
Assistant PRO: Collins Ebiareneyin
Treasurer: Ayemidejor Omawumi
Financial Secretary: Tuoyo Ojogbo
Legal Advisor: Solomon Ogholaja
Director of Mobilization: Odemi Agbeyegbe
Director of External Affairs: Ajakaye Blessing
Director of Socials & Welfare: Jolomi Kekema
Women Leader: Alero Olugbo
In his remarks, the Olu of Warri charged the new executive to embrace service, integrity, and inclusivity in their leadership. He stressed that the UIYA must remain a rallying point for all Itsekiri youths while upholding the values and heritage of the kingdom.
The swearing-in is seen as the beginning of a new chapter for the association, with expectations high among stakeholders that the fresh leadership will address contemporary challenges facing young people in Itsekiri communities and foster stronger unity within the Warri Kingdom.