By Charles Pemu 
Gaborone, Botswana — In a move underscoring the expanding diplomatic role of Nigeria’s traditional institutions, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri, accompanied by Her Royal Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, and a retinue of his Chiefs, paid a significant courtesy visit to Botswana’s President, His Excellency Duma Gideon Boko, in Gaborone.
The royal couple and their Chiefs were joined by the former President of Mauritius, Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, underscoring the pan-African significance of the exchange. This high-level meeting occurred on the sidelines of the Elevate Africa Conference 2025, an initiative spearheaded by the revered royal couple under the theme “Africa, The Next Chapter.”
The focus of the diplomatic engagement was clear: a unified approach toward unity, collaboration, and decisive leadership across the continent. The visit was hailed as a powerful demonstration of the Warri Kingdom’s commitment to forging direct, constructive relationships with African heads of state.
Further solidifying the strategic depth of the visit, His Majesty the Olu of Warri also held a separate, high-profile meeting with Botswana’s immediate former President, Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi. This discussion focused explicitly on the critical African themes of continuity of leadership and shared efforts needed to foster peace and prosperity throughout the continent.
The Olu, a prominent voice for cultural and diplomatic economics, utilized these platforms to discuss matters transcending bilateral relations, focusing on leveraging Africa’s rich heritage and stable traditional institutions to support modern democratic structures and economic growth.
Olori Atuwatse III, who is rapidly becoming recognized as a leading figure in continental thought leadership, set the tone for the entire royal entourage. She commended Botswana’s model of governance and stressed the interconnected destiny of African nations, urging a collective shift from fragmented national perspectives to a unified African identity.
The presence of the royal couple, distinguished regional leaders, and their Chiefs in Gaborone provided a captivating blend of deep Nigerian tradition and forward-thinking modern leadership. It showcased the Warri Monarchy’s evolution into a global instrument for innovation, investment, and youth mentorship, reaffirming the message that Africa’s true potential can only be unlocked through mutual respect and synergy between its governments, its people, and its powerful traditional thrones.