Warri Kingdom Rolls Out Royal Welcome for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as Eyituoyo Michael Merogun PhD Hails Historic Visit

Warri Kingdom is set for a historic and colourful reception as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visits the revered Palace of the Olu of Warri on Thursday, February 26, 2026. 

The visit, already generating excitement across Delta State, especially amongst Itsekiri's both at home and in diaspora has been described as a significant moment of honour for the Itsekiri nation.

In a statement released to journalists on Tuesday, Eyituoyo Michael Merogun Phd, an APC chieftain in Warri South Local Government Area, said the scheduled visit signals growing national recognition of the cultural and historical weight of Warri Kingdom.

According to him, the Palace of the Olu of Warri stands not merely as an architectural monument, but as a living symbol of peaceful coexistence, cultural nationalism, identity, and the resilient royal heritage of the Itsekiri people whose influence predates colonial Nigeria.

Dr. Merogun noted that receiving the First Lady at the palace goes beyond ceremonial courtesy. He described the engagement as a meaningful bridge between traditional authority and national leadership at a time when grassroots inclusion remains central to governance. “This visit is an ideal representation of the significance of aligning federal initiatives with community realities,” he said, adding that such interactions reinforce mutual respect between Nigeria’s cultural custodians and elected officials.

The APC stalwart expressed optimism that the First Lady’s presence would open new conversations around women empowerment, youth development, support for small and medium scale enterprises, and the strengthening of the informal sector, which forms the backbone of Warri’s local economy. Observers believe the visit may also spotlight federal social intervention programmes and advocacy efforts championed by the First Lady, particularly those targeting vulnerable groups and promoting inclusive growth.

Across Warri Kingdom, preparations have intensified, with community leaders, associations, youth groups, and women organisations mobilising to ensure a befitting and peaceful reception. Streets leading to the palace are expected to witness a blend of Itsekiri cultural displays, traditional music, and symbolic pageantry reflective of Itsekiri heritage. Stakeholders say the enthusiasm surrounding the visit cuts across political lines, portraying a shared aspiration for development, peace, and strengthened federal presence in Delta State.

In conclusion, Dr. Merogun, while calling for decorum and solidarity among residents, emphasised that the occasion transcends partisan interests. He reaffirmed the Itsekiri nation’s longstanding reputation for hospitality and diplomacy, expressing confidence that the visit would further cement bonds between the Federal Government and the people of Delta South. As Warri Kingdom prepares to receive the nation’s First Lady, many see the moment as both symbolic and strategic; a convergence of Itsekiri cultural consciousness, leadership, and the collective hope for sustainable progress. 

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