By Sunday Apah
The fourth anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, culminated in a significant announcement on Thursday with the launch of the Iwere Trust Fund (ITF).
This ambitious initiative aims to accelerate the socio-economic development of the Itsekiri people and their ancestral land.
During the unveiling ceremony at his Aghofen Palace in Warri, Delta State, attended by thousands of Itsekiri individuals, community leaders, and supporters, the esteemed monarch emphasized that the progress of the Itsekiri community must be driven by its own members.
Setting an exemplary standard, Ogiame Atuwatse III, who will take on the role of Chairman for the Fund, announced a personal contribution of ₦750 million, framing it as “leadership by example.”
“The Itsekiri people are the key to their own development and that of their homeland. I am planting the seed of my commitment with ₦750 million, and I call on every well-meaning Itsekiri person across the globe to join me in nurturing this collective initiative,” the Olu stated amid enthusiastic applause.
He clarified that the Fund would act as a resource mobilization platform to execute significant projects that will directly enhance Itsekiri communities, aligning with his vision of transforming promises into actionable results.
Analysts suggest that the establishment of the ITF is more than just a symbolic act; it represents a pivotal moment in the monarch’s reign, distinguishing him as a ruler committed to impactful action.
Many view this announcement as a fitting highlight of the fourth anniversary festivities, serving as both a beacon of hope and a call for self-sustaining development.
The announcement inspired rapturous cheers, with the palace resonating with chants of “Oba-oke, Oba-omi, Ogiame Suoooii!” as the Itsekiri people celebrated yet another achievement under their visionary king.
With the inauguration of the Iwere Trust Fund, Ogiame Atuwatse III has once again emphasized his commitment to fostering a thriving Itsekiri community grounded in unity, accountability, and local development.
