Olu of Warri

**Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III: The 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom** His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, born Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko (also known as Tsola Emiko), is the 21st Olu (King) of the Warri Kingdom, a traditional state of the Itsekiri people located in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. He ascended the throne in 2021, representing a new generation of traditional leadership focused on modernization, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment. **Early Life and Education** Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko was born on April 2, 1984, in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, to the late 19th Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II (Godwin Toritseju Emiko), and Olori Gladys Durorike Emiko. He is also a direct descendant of Olu Ginuwa I, the Benin prince who founded the Itsekiri Kingdom in the 15th century. Emiko grew up immersed in both Itsekiri royal traditions and modern global culture. He received his foundational education in Nigeria before moving abroad for university studies. He attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, where he earned degrees in International Studies and Political Science. Furthering his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master’s degree in Management from the University of Dundee, Scotland. This extensive education prepared him for global leadership while ensuring a deep connection to his cultural roots. **Career Progression and Coronation** Prior to his ascension to the throne, Tsola Emiko pursued a career in business and administration. He gained experience in the corporate sector, which included roles in the energy industry and investment management. Following the passing of his predecessor, Ogiame Ikenwoli, Tsola Emiko was selected according to the ancient customs of the Warri Kingdom. He was crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri on August 21, 2021, taking the regnal name Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III. His coronation marked the end of the traditional selection process and the beginning of his formal reign over the Itsekiri people. **Major Achievements and Notable Works** As Olu of Warri, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III has committed to several key areas of focus. He advocates strongly for peace, justice, and inclusion, particularly addressing issues relevant to the Itsekiri people and the wider Niger Delta community. His leadership style is noted for its humility and engagement, often described as leading with his heart rather than from a distance. Under his reign, he has placed significant emphasis on: * **Cultural Preservation:** He has reinvigorated various Itsekiri festivals and cultural practices, transforming them into important platforms for cultural exchange and tourism, thereby acting as a custodian of Itsekiri heritage against the threat of globalization. * **Socio-economic Development:** He has launched initiatives centered on philanthropy, addressing community challenges such as poverty, healthcare disparities, and environmental sustainability. * **Youth Empowerment:** A central tenet of his leadership is the promotion of education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment for the youth.**Current Status** His Majesty, Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, currently serves as the paramount ruler of the Warri Kingdom in Delta State, Nigeria. He is widely recognized as a forward-thinking monarch who actively balances traditional responsibilities with the demands of modern governance and societal needs. He holds the national honor of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).