His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, and Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, Mama Iwere, have introduced a new cultural identity movement and digital platform called Iam Itsekiri, designed to unite Itsekiri people and their friends across the globe around shared heritage and belonging. The initiative, set to launch under the authority of the Palace of the Warri Kingdom, will feature a media-driven cultural campaign and a dedicated mobile application serving as a digital gathering place for community members.
The movement is rooted in the meaning of the name Itsekiri, which translates to "blessing surrounds us." According to the royal couple, the platform aims to strengthen identity, pride, and unity among Itsekiris while extending that sense of belonging to allies of the kingdom. "To say 'I am Itsekiri' is to make an active declaration that one belongs to a people that blessing follows," His Majesty stated.
The initiative redefines Itsekiri identity beyond geography and population size, emphasizing that communities driven by strong ideas can grow into influential movements. The movement welcomes three groups into one community: those born Itsekiri, those who joined 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.
The Iam Itsekiri application functions as a digital village where users can access updates from the Palace and the kingdom, connect with fellow Itsekiris worldwide, and engage with cultural content promoting language, traditions, customs, and indigenous cuisine. The app will be available on the Apple Store and Google Play Store. The movement is amplified through the #IAmItsekiri Challenge, encouraging participants to share personal stories, testimonies, and experiences reflecting Itsekiri identity.
This initiative matters because it leverages technology to preserve and project the Itsekiri heritage on a global scale. By creating a digital hub, the movement ensures that cultural knowledge and connections are maintained across generations, especially for those in the diaspora. For the Itsekiri people, it offers a renewed sense of pride and belonging, while for the wider world, it provides an opportunity to engage with and appreciate the richness of Itsekiri culture. The move also demonstrates how traditional institutions can adapt to modern tools to foster unity and cultural continuity.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, initiatives like Iam Itsekiri highlight the importance of cultural preservation in the digital age. The platform not only serves as a repository of traditions but also as a live community where members can interact, share, and celebrate their identity. The inclusion of friends and allies further promotes cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.
The launch of the app and the #IAmItsekiri Challenge are anticipated to create a wave of participation, drawing attention to the Itsekiri people's contributions and values. The Olu of Warri described the initiative as "not nostalgia, but strategy," emphasizing its role in preserving heritage and projecting Itsekiri values onto the global stage.
