A NEW KING WAS CROWNED IN NIGERIA AND YOUNG PEOPLE ARE INSPIRED

The coronation of a monarch in the oil-rich Delta region has sparked a resurgence in royalty, tradition and ancestry among some young Nigerians.

Thousands took to the streets and dignitaries and well-wishers flew in from around the world as the Itsekiri people of Iwere Kingdom in Delta state crowned a new king, Ogiame Atuwatse III. Born Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, the 37-year-old is the 21st Olu of Warri to ascend the throne and one of the youngest to do so.

The prince has inspired a new generation with his progressive attitude and his speech which was the highlight of the ceremony for many who have often lamented the failures of leadership in the country.

In his speech, he called for the region to look “beyond oil and gas.”

Nigeria is the largest oil-producer in Africa, contributing 86% to the country’s total export revenue. The Niger Delta, in the southernmost part of the country has had to battle with insurgents, oil spills and pollution caused by behemoth energy companies in the region.

“We must look beyond oil and gas, and channel our energy in the right direction, towards the endeavors that will result in added value across the board,” he said in the speech. Many have expectations on the new Olu of Warri to set things in motion to rewrite the narrative of the region.

The Olu of Warri also pledged that women would be given agency to play an active role in the community.

“We will ensure that women, both old and young, honored and respected not only by word, but in actual cultural practice.. So I say to our women today, you will no longer be invisible.” As is common in monarchies, he also bestowed new titles on his mother and wife to be known as Iye Olu Atuwatse III and Olori Atuwatse III.

Notable leaders including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Ooni of Ife, the king of Ile-Ife in South West Nigeria, were present at the ceremony to pay homage to the Olu of Warri at Ode-Itsekiri, the ancestral home of the Itsekiris.

Across the country and in the diaspora, many tuned in to local broadcasts and gathered at viewing centers to witness history.