The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has conferred the traditional chieftaincy title of Utukpa-Oritse on Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, during a colourful ceremony in Warri, Delta State.
The event took place on Thursday at the royal palace in Warri as part of a homecoming visit by the First Lady to celebrate her Itsekiri maternal heritage. The ceremony attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, youths, and dignitaries from within and outside Delta State.
The title, Utukpa-Oritse, also known as Ugbọnẹ́, was conferred on the First Lady in recognition of her service to the nation and her ancestral ties to the Itsekiri people of Warri Kingdom.
The First Lady arrived in Warri to a warm and colourful reception. She was accompanied by the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional rulers.
Both dignitaries were received at the palace by Ogiame Atuwatse III amid traditional songs, drumming, and cultural displays by sons and daughters of the Warri Kingdom.
The palace grounds were filled with excitement as residents gathered to witness what many described as a historic event. Women dressed in traditional Itsekiri attire sang and danced, while youths waved and cheered as the First Lady made her entrance.
In a statement issued by the palace, the visit was described as a “historic homecoming” for Senator Oluremi Tinubu, celebrating her roots and strengthening ties between the Warri Kingdom and the Nigerian state.
In Itsekiri tradition, chieftaincy titles are given to individuals who have shown commitment to community development, leadership, and service. The Utukpa-Oritse title is regarded as one of honour and respect within the kingdom.
By conferring the title on the First Lady, the Olu of Warri formally recognised her as a distinguished daughter of the kingdom.
Warri Kingdom, located in present-day Delta State, is one of the oldest traditional institutions in Nigeria. The Olu of Warri is the paramount ruler of the Itsekiri people, whose history dates back several centuries with deep cultural and trading links to other parts of Nigeria and beyond.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s visit to Warri was described as a celebration of her maternal heritage. Although she has lived much of her life outside Delta State, her roots in the Itsekiri ethnic group remain an important part of her identity.
The homecoming offered an opportunity for the First Lady to reconnect with her ancestral community and for the people of Warri to honour one of their own who now occupies a prominent position in the country.
As First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu has been involved in various social programmes focusing on women empowerment, health, and support for vulnerable groups. Before becoming First Lady, she served as a senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District for three terms.
The presence of the Ooni of Ife added further importance to the occasion. The Ooni is a leading traditional ruler among the Yoruba people and often plays a role in promoting unity among different ethnic groups in Nigeria.
His attendance was seen as a show of respect for the Warri Kingdom and a symbol of national unity.
Traditional rulers in Nigeria continue to play important roles in community development, conflict resolution, and cultural preservation. While they do not hold political power under the Constitution, they are respected voices in their communities.
Events such as the conferral of chieftaincy titles often bring together political leaders and traditional institutions, strengthening ties between modern governance and cultural heritage.
Residents of Warri expressed joy over the visit. Many described it as a proud moment for the Itsekiri people.
A community elder said the recognition of the First Lady shows that the Warri Kingdom values its sons and daughters, no matter where they live.
“This is a day of pride for us. We are happy to honour our daughter who has served the nation,” he said.
Youths at the event said they were inspired by the First Lady’s achievements and encouraged to aim high in their own careers.
Women groups also praised the gesture, noting that it highlights the growing role of women in leadership and public life.
The ceremony comes at a time when Nigeria continues to emphasise unity among its diverse ethnic groups. The country is made up of over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions and customs.
Public events that celebrate heritage while promoting national identity are often seen as important steps toward building stronger understanding among communities.
The Warri ceremony combined culture, tradition, and national recognition in one gathering.
As the drums sounded and traditional dancers performed, the message was clear: cultural roots remain a strong part of Nigeria’s identity.
For the people of Warri Kingdom, the visit of the First Lady and the conferral of the Utukpa-Oritse title will remain a memorable moment in their history.
For Senator Oluremi Tinubu, it marked a return to her roots and a public acknowledgement of her bond with the Itsekiri people.
