The Ogiame Atuwatse III, formerly known as Omoba Tshola Emiko, has been crowned the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom. His ascension to the throne has received widespread attention more than any other in recent history. The event has sparked an interest in royalty and tradition amongst young Nigerians inspired by his charisma and progressive attitude. Here are ten things you need to know about the monarch of the moment.
1. He is a Descendant of Olu Erejuwa II & the First son of the 19th Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse II.
2. He was born into royalty three years before his father became the Olu of Warri.
3. He is the first Olu of Warri, in well over two centuries, whose mother is alive and well to witness him sit on the throne. In the same time span, even longer, he is the first eldest son of an Olu to ascend the throne
4. He is a master’s degree Holder
Prince Emiko attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Political Science with minors in History and Economics. He also obtained an MSc in Management from Case Western Reserve University in 2007 before returning to Nigeria for his NYSC in 2008.
5. He is an avid sportsman- 6 Sports and Counting!
Prince Tsola played as a striker for Case Western Reserve University’s Soccer Team in his freshman year. He also loves hiking, swimming, kayaking, basketball, and American football.
6. He is a Millennial and Serial Entrepreneur providing sustainable solutions for Nigeria’s Energy Industry.
Born on April 2, 1984, Prince Tsola Emiko represents a sterling example of the youthful class that is innovative, dynamic and progressive. Prince Emiko owns and operates Noble Energy Ltd, Corral Curators Ltd and is also on the board of several companies, including Ocean Marine Security Ltd, Gulf of Guinea Ltd and Vessellink Nig. Ltd, to mention a few.
7. Grounded, Temperate and a man who appreciates Love & Family.
Tsola is a man who understands responsibility and holds family in high esteem. In 2014, he married Ivie Okunbo, the entrepreneur daughter of Late billionaire businessman Capt. Idahosa Okunbo. They are blessed with three beautiful children.
8. He is the first Olu in five centuries, to be married to a Bini woman.
9. He firmly believes in and stands for the Rights of Women.
This is evident in speech when he says, “We will look to honour our women. We will encourage them, build them up and support them in realising their inestimable potentials. And as we do this, we will also see the multiplier effect in the collective development of our people. We will ensure that our women, both old and young, are honoured and respected, not only by word but in actual cultural practice.”
10. He’s a devout Christian who seizes every and any opportunity to express his faith.
Photo Credit – BigH Studios
