Olu of Warri hails new African Special Envoy on Youth, Aganaba

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has lauded the leadership and vision of Prince Iwefa Aganaba, the newly appointed African Special Envoy on Youth.

The commendation came during a visit by Prince Aganaba and his entourage to the royal palace in Warri, where the monarch expressed his support for Aganaba’s mission to transform the lives of young Africans.

During the meeting, the Olu of Warri urged Aganaba to harness his remarkable abilities to effect meaningful change across the continent.

Highlighting the importance of collective efforts in advancing youth welfare, the monarch reaffirmed his dedication to initiatives that empower young people, particularly in education, skills development, and sustainable development.

The royal visit also featured a heartfelt exchange of gifts, with the Olu expressing deep gratitude for the gesture.

He praised Aganaba’s alignment with his advocacy for youth empowerment, describing the meeting as a testament to shared aspirations for a brighter future.

In response, Aganaba commended the monarch for his steadfast commitment to youth development through initiatives like the Royal Iwere Foundation (RIF).

He described the foundation as a visionary model addressing critical challenges in education, empowerment, and environmental sustainability, not just in the Niger Delta but across Africa.

“It was a great privilege to be hosted and honoured by His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III. Your Majesty’s unwavering dedication to youth causes is a shining example of leadership and a beacon of hope for future generations. On behalf of the Commonwealth Secretariat, I pledge my allegiance to your visionary guidance and mentorship as we work to energise, engage, and empower youth across Africa’s 54 countries,” said Aganaba. “

The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme and the declaration of 2023 as the Year of Youth by the Commonwealth.

Under the mandate of the Commonwealth Secretariat, Prince Aganaba hosted an event that highlighted the critical role of youth-led action in achieving sustainable development.

Ogiame Atuwatse III, renowned for his wisdom and progressive leadership, has been pivotal in promoting peace, unity, and development within the Warri Kingdom.

His reign has seen significant strides in education and youth empowerment, alongside efforts to preserve Itsekiri culture and traditions.

The Commonwealth event, which brought together young leaders, change-makers, and governments, underscored the urgent need to place youth issues at the forefront of the global agenda.

With over 60 per cent of the Commonwealth’s 2.5 billion population under the age of 30, the programme’s initiatives are more relevant than ever in fostering a future where young people can thrive.

As the African Special Envoy on Youth, Prince Aganaba’s mandate spans five regions of Africa, and he is determined to collaborate with leaders like the Olu of Warri to amplify the voices and potential of the continent’s youth.

Under the inspiring leadership of Ogiame Atuwatse III, Warri Kingdom remains a beacon of hope and transformation, demonstrating the power of traditional institutions in shaping a better future for generations to come.