His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, and Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, Mama Iwere, have announced a new initiative called 'Iam Itsekiri' to unite Itsekiri people across the globe. The movement, which will be launched under the authority of the Palace of the Warri Kingdom, includes a media-driven cultural campaign and a mobile application designed to serve as a digital gathering place for the community.
The initiative aims to connect Itsekiris at home and in the diaspora, fostering a shared sense of heritage and belonging. According to the royal couple, the name 'Itsekiri' means 'blessing surrounds us,' and the platform seeks to strengthen identity, pride, and unity among the people while also welcoming friends and allies of the kingdom.
In a statement, His Majesty emphasized that the movement redefines Itsekiri identity beyond geography and population size. 'History has shown that communities driven by a strong idea can grow into influential movements,' he said. 'To say I am Itsekiri is to make an active declaration that one belongs to a people that blessing follows.'
The movement welcomes three groups into the community: those born Itsekiri, those who have joined through marriage, and friends of Itsekiri who identify with the values and ideals of the people. This inclusive approach broadens participation while preserving cultural pride and heritage.
The Iam Itsekiri application functions as a digital village where users can access updates from the Palace and the kingdom, connect with fellow Itsekiris across the globe, and engage with cultural content that promotes language, traditions, customs, and indigenous cuisine. The app will soon be available on the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
To amplify the movement, the #IAmItsekiri Challenge encourages participants to share personal stories, testimonies, and experiences that reflect the Itsekiri identity. His Majesty described the initiative as 'not nostalgia, but strategy,' aimed at preserving heritage, strengthening community bonds, and projecting the blessings and values of the Itsekiri people onto the global stage.
The launch of this initiative underscores the importance of cultural preservation in an increasingly interconnected world. By leveraging digital tools, the Warri Kingdom aims to ensure that Itsekiri identity remains vibrant and relevant for future generations, both at home and abroad.
