society
Royal Alliance for African Renaissance: King Misuzulu Hosts Ògíamè Atúwàtse III at KwaKhangelamankengane
Royal Alliance for African Renaissance: King Misuzulu Hosts Ògíamè Atúwàtse III at KwaKhangelamankengane
On the 16th of May 2025, a monumental event in the chronicles of pan-African unity unfolded at the KwaKhangelamankengane Royal Palace in KwaNongoma, northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the reigning monarch of the Zulu nation, hosted His Imperial Majesty Ògíamè Atúwàtse III, CFR, the 21st Olú of Warri Kingdom in Nigeria, in a ceremonious and culturally rich royal engagement that symbolized not only a diplomatic alliance but a rekindling of historical ties between two of Africa’s most formidable monarchies.
This visit, though described by some as ceremonial, was in fact deeply strategic and historic. It was an intersection of legacies, Zulu valor and Warri nobility, an alliance of thrones rooted in precolonial African greatness, spiritual authority and sovereign dignity.
Reconnecting the Royal Dots Across Africa
To fully appreciate the depth of this meeting, one must understand the weight each monarch carries. The Zulu Kingdom, under the lineage of Shaka Zulu and the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, has long been the bastion of cultural pride, warrior resistance and leadership within southern Africa. The ascension of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini in 2021 marked a renewal of traditional leadership that resonates beyond South Africa.
Similarly, the Warri Kingdom, situated in the oil-rich Niger Delta of Nigeria, dates back to the late 15th century and is revered for its early adoption of diplomacy, Christianity and international relations, especially with the Portuguese. The current Olú, Ògíamè Atúwàtse III, who ascended the throne in August 2021, has transformed the narrative around traditional leadership in West Africa. Harvard-educated and forward-thinking, he combines ancient wisdom with global intellect to promote cultural revival, education, peace and pan-African solidarity.
According to Prof. Adeyemi Okunlola, a scholar of African monarchies, “When two thrones that stood firm through the storms of colonialism meet, it is not a coincidence but a prophecy manifest. This meeting is the spiritual and political awakening Africa needs.”
Pan-Africanism at the Level of Kings
In an era where Africa continues to grapple with neocolonial economic systems, fractured borders and leadership crises, this royal interaction sends a resounding message: Africa’s kings are not relics; they are pillars of identity, unity and hope.
Addressing the gathered elders, chiefs, diplomats and traditional dancers at KwaKhangelamankengane Palace, King Misuzulu emphasized the importance of unity among African nations and the role traditional leaders must play in shaping the continent’s destiny.
“We are not just here to exchange pleasantries,” King Misuzulu declared. “We are here to reconnect the broken bones of our continent, to renew bonds that colonizers tried to erase, and to build a new Africa from the roots.”
In response, Ògíamè Atúwàtse III offered profound insights into the spiritual and developmental duties of traditional rulers in the 21st century:
“We are custodians of both the past and the future. Africa does not lack resources; it lacks alignment and consciousness. Our thrones are not decorative, they are directional. From KwaZulu to Warri, the drumbeat of unity is louder than ever.”
These were not hollow words. Both monarchs have walked the talk. King Misuzulu has championed rural development, youth empowerment and land reform advocacy. Meanwhile, Ògíamè Atúwàtse III has restructured the Itsekiri Royal Court to include technocrats, diplomats and professionals, modernizing governance in a way that benefits his people without losing cultural identity.
Cultural Diplomacy as a Tool for African Integration
While Western diplomacy is often obsessed with trade, military alliances and economic metrics, Africa’s diplomacy has always started with relationships, respect, rituals and reciprocity.
The Zulu-Warri encounter was steeped in symbolism, royal greetings, traditional drumming, libations, gift exchanges and storytelling. Cultural exchange is not merely aesthetic; it is the most authentic African foreign policy model. As Chinua Achebe once said, “A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.” This visit reminds Africans of where the rain began and inspires a future where they collectively seek shelter under the same ancestral umbrella.
This is especially important at a time when xenophobia, regional distrust and tribal divisions continue to plague African societies. The meeting of these two monarchs stands in sharp contrast to the rising tide of anti-African sentiment in South Africa. In fact, the warm embrace of Ògíamè Atúwàtse III by King Misuzulu stands as a royal rebuke to xenophobic politicians who preach division rather than unity.
Strategic Importance in 2025 and Beyond
2025 marks a critical juncture in Africa’s development. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is still in its fragile implementation phase. Continental security is threatened by insurgencies in the Sahel, political instability in West Africa and socio-economic discontent across southern Africa. In such times, state institutions have largely failed, but traditional institutions have endured.
In the words of Prof. Thabo Moletsane, a leading South African political anthropologist, “Where presidents fail, kings remain. Africa’s future will not only be determined in parliaments and boardrooms, it will be shaped in palaces.”
The presence of the Olú of Warri in KwaZulu-Natal thus transcends tourism or courtesy, but a bold move to reassert indigenous leadership as a legitimate and critical stakeholder in Africa’s future. It is a reminder that while colonial borders may divide, ancestral allegiance unites.
Beyond Symbolism: Pathways to Collaboration
The visit also paved the way for collaborative development. Sources close to both royal courts have hinted at plans to explore partnerships in education, agriculture, cultural tourism and youth exchange programs. Ògíamè Atúwàtse III’s Royal Iwere Foundation and King Misuzulu’s development initiatives could form the backbone of a new pan-African model of grassroots progress, outside the bureaucracy and corruption that have riddled many state institutions.
This kind of bottom-up cooperation mirrors the wisdom of the African proverb: “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” In unity, African kingdoms can do more than survive; they can lead.
The Rise of a New Royal Order
As King Misuzulu and Ògíamè Atúwàtse III embraced, the symbolism was undeniable. It was a spiritual handshake that traversed time and space. It was a reminder that Africa’s true strength lies in its roots, in its royal families, in its cultural institutions and in the unity of its people.
We live in a continent where many leaders seek validation in Washington, Paris or Beijing. Yet, here we have two kings seeking validation in each other’s ancestral lineage, a far more powerful gesture that echoes the words of Kwame Nkrumah: “We face neither East nor West, we face forward.”
This encounter must not be buried in the back pages of history. It must be celebrated, studied and replicated. From the swamps of Warri to the hills of KwaZulu, a new Africa is rising, not from politics, but from purpose; not from presidents, but from palaces.
Author: George Omagbemi Sylvester
Date: May 16, 2025
Location: KwaNongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
society
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) proudly announces the successful completion of the first edition of Hope Beyond the Walls 2026, a humanitarian initiative dedicated to restoring hope and freedom to deserving inmates.
Despite enormous challenges, financial pressure, emotional strain, and operational stress, the organization remained committed to its mission. Through perseverance, faith, and collective support, one inmate has successfully regained freedom a powerful reminder that hope is stronger than circumstance.
This milestone did not come easily.
Behind the scenes were weeks of coordination, advocacy, fundraising, documentation, and intense engagement. There were moments of uncertainty, but the determination to give someone a second chance kept the vision alive.
Today, the Association of Models gives heartfelt appreciation to all partners and sponsors, both locally and internationally, who stood with us mentally, financially, morally, and physically.
Special Recognition and Appreciation To:
Correctional Service Zonal Headquarters Zone A Ikoyi
Esan Dele
Ololade Bakare
Ify
Kweme
Taiwo & Kehinde Solagbade
Segun
Mr David Olayiwola
Mr David Alabi
PPF Zion International
OlasGlam International
Razor
Mr Obinna
Mr Dele Bakare (VOB International)
Tawio Bakare
Kehinde Bakare
Hannah Bakare
Mrs Doyin Adeyemi
Shade Daniel
Mr Seyi United States
Toxan Global Enterprises Prison
Adeleke Otejo
Favour
Yetty Mama
Loko Tobi Jeannette
MOSES OLUWATOSIN OKIKIADE
Moses Okikiade
(Provenience Enterprise)
We also acknowledge the numerous businesses and private supporters whose names may not be individually mentioned but whose contributions were instrumental in achieving this success.
Your generosity made freedom possible.
A CALL TO ACTION
Hope Beyond the Walls is not a one-time event. It is a movement.
There are still many deserving inmates waiting for a second chance individuals who simply need financial assistance, legal support, and advocacy to reunite with their families and rebuild their lives.
The Association of Models is therefore calling on:
Corporate organizations
Local and international sponsors
Philanthropists
Faith-based organizations
Community leaders
Individuals with a heart for impact
to partner with us.
Our vision is clear:
To secure the release of inmates regularly monthly, quarterly, or during special intervention periods through structured support and transparent collaboration.
HOW TO SUPPORT
Interested partners and supporters can reach out via
Social Media: Official Handles Hope In Motion
Donations and sponsorship inquiries are welcome.
Together, we can turn difficult stories into testimonies of restoration.
ABOUT AOMNGO
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) is a humanitarian driven organization committed to advocacy, empowerment, and social impact. Through projects like Hope Beyond the Walls, the organization works tirelessly to restore dignity and create opportunities for individuals seeking a second chance.
“When we come together, walls fall and hope rises.”
For media interviews, partnerships, and sponsorship discussions, please contact the Association of Models directly.
SENATOR ADEOLA YAYI REGISTERS 4000 JAMB CANDIDATES
In continuation of his educational support initiatives and following established tradition, Senator Solomon Adeola (APC,Ogun West) has successfully paid for and enrolled 4000 indigent students for the 2026 Joint Admission Matriculation Board(JAMB) examination.
According to a release e-signed and made available to members of the League of Yewa-Awori Media Practitioners (LOYAMP) by High Chief Kayode Odunaro, Media Adviser to Senator Adeola and shared with (your mediu), the programme financed by the senator under the “SEN YAYI FREE JAMB 2026” ended on Saturday , February 21, 2026, with a total of 4000 candidates successfully enrolled with their PINs provided.
Commenting on the success of the programme, Senator Adeola said the programme is another leg of his personal educational empowerment for indigent but brilliant citizens preparatory to his scholarship and bursary facilitation for tertiary education institutions’ students.
“As far as I can help it, none of our children will miss educational opportunities arising out of adverse economic predicament of their parents or guardians”, he stated.
Successful candidates cut across all the three senatorial districts of Ogun State with 2183 coming from Ogun West, 1358 coming from Ogun Central and 418 from Ogun East.
Some of the candidates that applied and are yet to get their PINs due wrong information supplied in their profiles and being underage as discovered by JAMB and other reasons are being further assisted to see the possibility of getting their PINs.
The Free JAMB programme of the Senator that has been running for years is well received by appreciative beneficiaries and their parents.
Alhaji Suara Adeyemi from Ipokia Local Government whose daughter successfully got her PIN in the programme said the Senator’s gesture was a welcome financial relief for his family at this period after payment of numerous school fees of other siblings of the beneficiary seeking admission to higher institution.
Also posting on the social media handle of the Senator, a beneficiary Mr. Henry Olaitan, from Odeda LGA said that he would have missed doing the entry examination as his guardian cannot afford the fees for himself and two of his children.
House Committee Seeks Stronger Financial Backing for Federal Character Commission
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has reassured the commitment of her new leadership to reposition the Commission and strengthen enforcement of the federal character principle, despite prevailing funding challenges.
Hon. Omidiran made this known during the Commission’s budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character at the National Assembly on Friday, February 19, 2026.
The Executive Chairman opened up on inadequate funding has continued to constrain the Commission’s statutory activities, including nationwide monitoring, compliance audits and enforcement measures across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“We are focused and determined to do the work that the Constitution and the President have entrusted us with,” Omidiran stated.
The FCC Boss, however, assured lawmakers that the Commission remains resolute in ensuring equity, fairness and balanced representation in line with its constitutional mandate.
“As a Commission, it is our responsibility to engage with relevant government parastatals and ministries to secure the necessary funding we require. We believe that with consultation and collaboration, it will be a successful venture for the Commission.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character, RT. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, expressed deep concern over what he described as near-zero budgetary allocation to the Commission, stressing that such financial inadequacies severely undermine its operational effectiveness.
The Plateau State lawmaker assured the Commission of the Committee’s firm legislative backing in advocating for improved funding and strengthening the Commission’s capacity to fully exercise its constitutional mandate.
“We cannot reasonably expect the Federal Character Commission to enforce compliance across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies while grappling with insufficient funding,” Hon. Wase remarked.
“If we are genuinely committed to fairness, equity, and national cohesion, then we must be deliberate in adequately funding the institution established to safeguard these principles.
“As a Committee, we shall work closely with the leadership of the Commission to ensure that its budgetary provisions reflect the magnitude of its mandate. The era of skeletal or token funding must give way to realistic and sustainable financial support,” he concluded.
The budget defence session concluded on a note of renewed collaboration between the House of Representatives and the Commission, reflecting a shared determination to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance accountability, and promote equitable representation within Nigeria’s public service.
SIGNED:
Ademola Lawrence
Spokesperson,
Federal Character Commission
February 20, 2026
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