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Royal Legacy, Diaspora Loyalty: Ugbajo Itsekiri South Africa and the Vision of Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR
Royal Legacy, Diaspora Loyalty: Ugbajo Itsekiri South Africa and the Vision of Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | South Africa
In an era where many traditional institutions grapple with relevance and impact, the Warri Kingdom stands tall under the progressive and visionary leadership of His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR. Since ascending the ancient throne of his forefathers, the 21st Olu of Warri has not only reinvigorated the Itsekiri nation but has also awakened a new consciousness within the diaspora—a sense of purpose, unity, and service.
This wave of renaissance has reached the shores of South Africa, where the Ugbajo Itsekiri South Africa Chapter has emerged as a beacon of hope and development under the tireless leadership of Mr. Eyitemi Jakpa, the esteemed Olaga. More than just a diaspora group, this chapter exemplifies the deep connection between homeland and diaspora, inspired by the Olu’s clarion call for collective responsibility and cultural rejuvenation.
Royal Inspiration, Diaspora Mobilization
Since Ogiame Atuwatse III’s coronation in August 2021, the Warri Kingdom has witnessed a rebirth—not just within its traditional domain, but globally. His Majesty’s reign is rooted in compassion, service, and futuristic thinking. His message has been clear: the Itsekiri nation must rise as a people grounded in culture, driven by education, and united by purpose.
The Ugbajo Itsekiri South Africa Chapter has answered this call with unwavering dedication. No longer content with just being observers, they have become active participants in shaping the destiny of their homeland. Their most notable contribution so far is in one of the most basic yet essential areas of life—access to clean water.
Lifelines from Afar: The Jack Pump Projects
In many rural communities, clean water is still a dream deferred. But for the people of Ugbuwangwe, Ode-Itsekiri, and Okotomu, that dream is becoming a reality thanks to the intervention of Ugbajo Itsekiri SA.
The chapter has successfully funded and installed three Jack Pumps:
Ugbuwangwe Community Water Pump Project (2024)
Ode-Itsekiri Community Water Pump Project (2024)
Okotomu Community Water Pump Project (ongoing, 2025)
These water projects do more than quench thirst—they uplift lives. Women and children no longer have to trek long distances to fetch water. The risk of waterborne diseases has drastically decreased. The impact is not just physical, but psychological. These communities now enjoy improved health, hygiene, and a renewed sense of dignity.
Indeed, these Jack Pumps are not just mechanical installations—they are monuments of love, symbols of global Itsekiri solidarity, and a tribute to the royal vision that prioritizes the welfare of all Itsekiri people, whether at home or abroad.
Cultural Fidelity: Celebrating the Monarchy Abroad
The strength of a people lies not just in development but in the preservation of their identity. Ugbajo Itsekiri SA has remained true to this ideal, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to the Warri throne. The chapter has been visibly present at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd anniversaries of the reign of His Imperial Majesty during the Uge-Oyo Ekoro ceremonies held in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
These cultural pilgrimages to Warri are not mere formalities—they are spiritual homecomings. They are opportunities to reconnect with ancestral values, reaffirm loyalty to the Olu, and showcase to the world that no matter the distance, the bond between Itsekiris and their King remains unbroken.
Education as Empowerment: Lifting the Next Generation
Beyond physical development and cultural engagement, Ugbajo Itsekiri SA has also invested in the most powerful tool of transformation: education. In a deeply thoughtful initiative, the chapter donated 500 notebooks to students across three Itsekiri primary schools:
Orugbo Primary School
Agbeje Primary School
Ginuwa Primary School
This gesture may appear small to some, but to these children, it is an empowering gift—a passport to knowledge, a step toward a better future. It affirms the Olu’s belief that no Itsekiri child should be denied the tools needed to succeed in life. Education, under this royal philosophy, is not a privilege but a right.
The Royal Mandate: Development with Dignity
It is important to stress that none of these achievements occurred in isolation. They are the direct consequence of a royal philosophy that merges tradition with modernity. Ogiame Atuwatse III has redefined kingship, transforming it from ceremonial leadership into developmental statesmanship. He has made it clear that tradition must evolve to serve people better.
The Olu’s tireless efforts in promoting gender equity, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and global diplomacy have inspired Itsekiris worldwide to rise to the occasion. Under his reign, being a member of the Itsekiri nation is not just a matter of birth—it is a call to action.
A Call to Other Diaspora Chapters
The Ugbajo Itsekiri South Africa Chapter stands as a model of what is possible when the diaspora is mobilized for good. Their accomplishments should serve as a rallying call to other Itsekiri associations across Europe, America, Asia, and beyond. The Olu has created the vision; it is now up to every loyal subject to run with it.
There are roads to build, hospitals to equip, schools to support, and dreams to fulfill. In the words of the Olu, “If we do not build our nation, who will?” It is a question that echoes not only through the creeks of Delta State but also through the bustling cities of Johannesburg, London, Houston, and Tokyo.
Spiritual Monarch: The Sacred Names of Ogiame
His Majesty is not just a king in the political sense; he is also a deeply spiritual figure. The Olu of Warri holds sacred titles passed down through generations, each steeped in cultural, ancestral, and divine meaning. Among the many revered names by which he is known are:
Ogbowuru
Afọmasi
Afọtsẹ
Ọba N’Ame
Afọwẹrẹ tse wẹrẹ
Ugbobrikiti
Jẹnẹkpo Ọsọndada
Iyẹmẹriko Ogbe
Ẹkpẹnmuodidi
Ẹkunkpregedeọsọn
Ọba Omì u
Ọba oke
Ọba Ọluranran
Olaja ni Ojo
These titles are not mere honorifics—they are living expressions of the king’s spiritual mandate, his divine guardianship over the land and people, and his connection to the supernatural. They reflect a sacred trust, a kingship that transcends politics and touches the very soul of the Itsekiri nation.
Conclusion: Royalty, Responsibility, and Renaissance
The story of Ugbajo Itsekiri SA is more than a story of charity—it is a story of identity, purpose, and destiny. It is a story that affirms the enduring relevance of traditional leadership when it aligns with modern development goals.
Under the divine and distinguished reign of His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Itsekiri people are writing a new chapter—one defined by unity, excellence, and global relevance. The King has set the tone; the diaspora is playing the music.
Together, they are dancing to a future that is bright, noble, and worthy of their proud heritage.
Life Patron Gen. Buratai Congratulates Newly Elected Lady Captain of TYBGRCC
ABUJA – The Tukur Yusufu Buratai Golf Resort and Country Club (TYBGRCC) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the election of Ms. Jumai Hajara Adamu as its Lady Captain.
The club’s Life Patron, Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR, former Chief of Army Staff, has extended his warm congratulations and full endorsement. “As the Life Patron, I am immensely proud to see a leader of your calibre step forward,” he stated. “Please be assured of my full and unwavering support throughout your tenure. I have every confidence that your leadership will be marked by significant achievements.”
The election, conducted by the club’s Board of Trustees and membership, highlights a unanimous confidence in Ms. Adamu’s vision and dedication to the sport and the club’s community.
In her acceptance address, the newly elected Lady Captain outlined a forward-looking agenda anchored on three key pillars: Unity, Development, and Inclusiveness. “I believe that golf is not just a sport but a powerful platform for friendship, discipline, mentorship, and community,” she stated, pledging to strengthen member bonds, encourage greater participation among ladies and youth, and enhance the club’s facilities.
Ms. Jumai Hajara Adamu, a respected member known for her active participation and organizational acumen, succeeds a line of distinguished past Lady Captains. She has pledged to build upon their legacy with transparency, teamwork, and accountability, ensuring every member feels heard and represented.
This appointment is seen as a significant step for the TYBGRCC, reinforcing its commitment to excellence, growth, and fostering a vibrant sporting community in the heart of the nation’s capital. The club anticipates a dynamic and prosperous term under her guidance.
About Tukur Yusufu Buratai Golf Resort and Country Club (TYBGRCC):
Located in Abuja, TYBGRCC is a premier golfing destination dedicated to promoting the sport of golf, fostering camaraderie, and encouraging a healthy lifestyle among its members and guests. It stands as a testament to world-class sporting and recreational facilities.
NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,(NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter Executives has unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Chairman NAWOJ SEKINAT Salam and the Financial Secretary, Charity James, saying that, their leadership reflect the ideal and objectives of NAWOJ.
This was revealed in a communique issued at an Emergency meeting of the Executive held at the NUJ State Council, Iwe-Iroyin in Abeokuta.
The vote of confidence on the Leadership of NAWOJ was unanimously signed by all the five executive members that attended the meeting with the vice chairperson taking apology for official engagement outside the state capital.
According to the communique ” Consequently, NAWOJ Ogun State Chapter, reaffirms it’s unwavering support and confidence in the Chairperson and the Financial Secretary, Sekinat Salam and Charity James respectively, Urge them to continue in their commitment to purposeful leadership in the best interest of the association and the society at large”.
Speaking briefly with Journalists after the emergency Executive meeting, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Woman Journalists (NAWOJ), Com. Sekinat Salam, said the meeting was necessary as the news of her suspension was laughable and insulting because it is like a pot calling a kettle black in this case, saying that the Leadership of the State Council, Com. Wale Olanrewaju has no local standing to suspend her or any executive member, even he cannot be a judge in his own case.
According to her” The Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State led by Wale Olanrewaju has always been misusing power without recourse to the constitution of this noble Union, hence has no local standing to suspend me or any executive member “.
She said only the Central Working Committee (CWC) has the constitutional rights to sanction or suspend any members found wanting after due process has been followed.
While calling on members to stay calm, Com. Sekinat Salam assured members of positive representation of NAWOJ at both the State and National level, adding the success recorded under her administration cannot be overemphasized.
She therefore called on the National leadership of NUJ to critically look into the matter, either by setting up independent committee to investigate the issues and resolve the matter as quickly as possible.
Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State as the state marks its 50th anniversary, describing the occasion as a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and sustained progress.
He noted that since its creation, Oyo State has remained a strong contributor to Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural development, emerging as a hub of commerce, education, and innovation.
According to him, the Golden Jubilee offers a moment for reflection and renewed commitment by government, private sector players, traditional institutions, and citizens toward building a more inclusive and prosperous state.
Aare Emmanuelking commended the state’s ongoing transformation through investments in infrastructure, economic expansion, and human capital development, adding that sustainable growth is deliberate and must remain purpose-driven.
He also praised the leadership of the current administration while acknowledging the contributions of past leaders whose efforts laid the foundation for today’s Oyo State.
Reaffirming Adron Homes’ commitment to national development, he described Oyo State as a land of opportunity. He wished the state continued peace and prosperity, expressing confidence that the next fifty years will bring even greater achievements for the Pace Setter State and its people.
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