Olori Ivie Atuwatse III, wife of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has been conferred with the Freedom of the City of London award in an illustrious ceremony held at Guildhall, United Kingdom.
A statement sent to PUNCH Online on Tuesday stated that the award is one of the United Kingdom’s most esteemed civic recognitions — “a rare honour that celebrates her transformative leadership and her commitment to amplifying Africa’s authentic narratives on the global stage.”
Historically, the award has been conferred on notable figures including Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Stephen Hawking, and Princess Diana.
The Freedom of the City of London Award, dating back to 1237, is one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies still in existence today, symbolising a unique bond between the City of London and its most distinguished recipients. This award recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society, embodying values of leadership, courage, and philanthropy.
The statement read, “As a distinguished advocate for Africa’s development, Olori Ivie Atuwatse III, the Queen Consort of Warri, is recognised as a visionary and a trailblazer. Through her initiatives with the Iwere Foundation and Elevate Africa, she has dedicated herself to creating sustainable pathways for growth, poverty alleviation, and social equity in her community and beyond.
“Her leadership extends to initiatives that inspire resilience and promote innovation across the continent, reflecting her commitment to shaping a prosperous future for Africa.”
In her remarks, Olori Atuwatse III said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Freedom of the City of London, a recognition that speaks to the power of unity, resilience, and the shared desire for progress.
“As I stand alongside legendary figures who have each left their mark on history, I am inspired to continue my work to uplift communities, especially in Africa. This award is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the growing importance of Africa on the global stage.
“I dedicate this to the people of Warri, Nigeria, and to everyone who believes in the transformative power of compassion and leadership.” (Punch)
