Olu of Warri Announces New Youth Body, Reaffirms Age Limit

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has announced the formation of a new umbrella youth body in the kingdom, Ugbarajo Itsekiri Youths (UYI).

The new body emerges from the merger of all existing Itsekiri youth groups, including the Itsekiri Native Council and the Itsekiri National Youth Congress (INYC), which have now been dissolved.

The monarch made the declaration on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the palace during the Youth Day celebration, held as part of activities marking his fourth coronation anniversary.

The announcement comes after the executive body of the INYC was dissolved in 2024 following leadership disputes. The palace further clarified that the age limit for the president of the youth body remains 38. A candidate may contest for the position at 38, but must hand over to the vice president upon turning 40.

The monarch urged the youths to unite and work collectively towards the progress and development of the Warri Kingdom.