In recognizing the African culture of community support and giving, the Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse III has been awarded the key of Brampton City, Toronto, by the Canadian government for his undeniable effort and impact in supporting the Nigerian community.
Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse III, 37, born Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, is the 21st Olu of Warri and one of the youngest to ascend the throne.
The award was handed to the monarch by the Mayor of Brampton, Patrick Brown, on Monday.
Olu of Warri appeared in a cultural outfit that boldly spelt out the rich culture of Deltans.
According to the Mayor, Ogiame Atuwatse III never loses sight of the Nigerian community abroad.
“This may not be known but His Majesty as part of his visit is showing a lot of love to the community. I was asked by His Majesty’s team if there is any local course that he can support in our city. For me, what became most important was the abundant recommendation for a hospital which comes with an enormous price tag of over a billion dollars,” Patrick Brown said.
He added that “in a city like Brampton, we need to have the best possible health care. We know there are challenges in the health sector and as part of his visit His Majesty has made a substantial contribution to our local hospital.
“So, in honour of that friendship for the hospital in our city I have a token of our city friendship and appreciation. His Majesty’s father was awarded a key to a city in the United States for his generosity and so keeping to that history in the family it is my pleasure today to present the city key of Brampton to honour your contributions. It is one thing to visit a city from abroad and another thing to come and say ‘how can I help and show love.’”
In return, Ogiame gifted to Brampton a replica of two red canoes from Warri, the economic center of Delta State.
By Elijah Christopher
