The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and Queen Consort Olori Atuwatse III, Mama Iwere, have announced a new cultural initiative called 'Iam Itsekiri' designed to connect Itsekiri people globally. The movement, which will be launched under the authority of the Palace of the Warri Kingdom, aims to strengthen identity, pride, and unity among Itsekiris at home and in the diaspora through a media campaign and a dedicated mobile application.
The initiative is built on the belief that the name Itsekiri means 'blessing surrounds us,' and it seeks to extend that sense of belonging to friends and allies of the kingdom. His Majesty emphasized that the movement is 'not nostalgia, but strategy,' aimed at preserving heritage and projecting Itsekiri values onto the global stage.
The 'Iam Itsekiri' app will serve as a digital village, providing users with updates from the Palace, opportunities to connect with fellow Itsekiris worldwide, and access to cultural content including language, traditions, customs, and indigenous cuisine. The app will be available on both 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. This participatory approach aims to foster a strong sense of community and belonging.
The initiative welcomes three groups into one community: those born Itsekiri, those who became part of the family through marriage, and friends of Itsekiri who identify with the values and ideals of the people. This broadens participation while preserving cultural pride and heritage.
By leveraging technology and social media, the Olu and Queen Consort hope to create a global network that transcends geography and population size. They believe that communities driven by a strong idea can grow into influential movements, and this initiative is designed to harness that potential.
The announcement was made in Abuja, UAE, and has been met with enthusiasm from Itsekiri communities around the world. The movement is expected to launch soon, with the app becoming available for download in the coming weeks.
