By Jose Oby 
Warri, Delta State —
The Itsekiri Nation is set to witness a grand royal celebration as the 4th Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the revered Olu of Warri, officially kicks off on Monday, 18th August 2025.
This year’s anniversary programme is being coordinated by Chief Engr. Oma Eyewuoma (The Ologbotsere of Warri), Chief Francis Omatsaye (Chairman, Central Committee), and Hon. (Barr.) David Eyitemi Oki (Chairman, Publicity/Media Committee).
The seven-day celebration, themed with culture, community development, and honour, begins with a Praise and Worship session at the Palace Church (Aghofen Warri) by 12 noon.
Activities for Day 2 (Tuesday, 19th August) include the commissioning of a hospital at Ugbuwangue, an Itsekiri Language Competition for children at the Palace Auditorium, and a double-header football fest featuring a Women’s Novelty Match and the All Stars Novelty Match at the Olu of Warri Palace Field.
Day 3 (Wednesday, 20th August) will see a Mini Regatta from Warri Boat Yard to Ode-Itsekiri by 10:00 AM, followed by homage-paying at the Ghigho Aghofen Palace, before the Olu departs for Big Warri.
Day 4 (Thursday, 21st August) is dedicated to traditional homage-paying ceremonies at the Palace Grounds, Aghofen Warri, beginning at 11:00 AM.
On Day 5 (Friday, 22nd August), a book launch on Arabic Figures and the Itsekiri language by author Lucky Ebaje will take place at 10:30 AM, followed by more homage-paying and a cultural drama presentation later in the day.
Saturday, 23rd August (Day 6) promises to be a highlight, with the Award of the Royal Order of Iwere (ROI) by His Majesty to distinguished Itsekiris. A special commemorative lecture on land and language strategies will also be held, alongside youth activities, and will conclude with a grand choral performance by the Royal Choir at the Palace Church.
The celebration wraps up on Sunday, 24th August (Day 7) with a Thanksgiving Service at the Palace Church, starting at 10:00 AM.
The royal events aim to celebrate the continuing legacy, progressive leadership, and cultural pride of Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR.