As part of the celebrations marking the third anniversary of his coronation, the Olu of Warri Kingdom in Delta State, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse, honored ten notable Itsekiri sons and daughters on Saturday.
These individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the development of Warri Kingdom and Nigeria as a whole.
Among the honorees were Sam Amuka-Pemu, the Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, and Amaju Pinnick, Nigeria’s representative on the FIFA Council.
Other recipients included Engr. Felix Omatsola, Ade Mabo, Julius Dediare Rone, Mr. Alfred Temile, Dr. Ajorutsedere Awosika, Mr. Eworitsewarami Justin Wilbert, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and Misan Harriman.
During the ceremony, the Olu of Warri praised the recipients for their patriotism and personally presented each of them with their awards on behalf of the Royal Iwere Society.
In his acceptance speech, Sam Amuka-Pemu, popularly known as Uncle Sam, expressed his gratitude to the monarch. “It is God Almighty who gave him the throne. He (God) is also the one directing his steps,” the veteran journalist stated, attributing the King’s ascension and his activities over the past three years to divine guidance.
Amaju Pinnick, visibly moved by the recognition, thanked the Olu of Warri, saying, “Your Majesty, this is a very big honor. I want to thank you.” Pinnick also pledged to remain committed to the development of the Itsekiri people.
Another recipient, Mr. Julius Dediare Rone, expressed deep appreciation for the award, describing it as “very special” to him. “I have been honored all over the world, but this is the best award I have ever received,” Rone said. He pledged his allegiance to the monarch and the throne, praying for continued development and greater achievements for Warri Kingdom during the Olu’s reign.
Mr. Ade Mabo also thanked the monarch and encouraged the Itsekiri people to support the King in his ongoing efforts to further develop the Warri Kingdom.
