The Niger Delta Advancement Award 8.0 continues to celebrate excellence and impactful leadership in the region with the unveiling of an impressive lineup of nominees for the Traditional Ruler of the Year category. This prestigious award honors monarchs who have demonstrated exceptional stewardship, cultural preservation, community development, peacebuilding, and advocacy for the progress of their kingdoms and the broader Niger Delta.
Drawing from nine states across the Niger Delta and South-South geopolitical zone, the nominees represent a rich tapestry of royal heritage, from ancient dynasties to modern visionary leaders. Their contributions range from promoting unity and sustainable development to championing cultural revival, humanitarian efforts, and conflict resolution in oil-bearing communities.
The full list of nominees for Traditional Ruler of the Year is as follows:
- HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR – The Olu of Warri (Delta State)
- HRM Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III – Olowo of Owo (Ondo State)
- HRM Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II – Oba of Benin (Edo State)
- HRH Chief Wariebi Berebozigha – Ama-Miepinamowei of Ikarama (Bayelsa State)
- HRM King Ateke Michael Tom – Amayanabo of Okochiri Kingdom (Rivers State)
- HRH Eze Obinna Nwachinemere Akwiwu – Dim Ohamadike II of Ogwuaga Abba (Imo State)
- HRM Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere – Ikwu Orie of Ohanku Ndoki Community (Abia State)
- HRH (Dr.) Nteyin Solomon Daniel Etuk, CFR – Oku Ibom Ibibio (Akwa Ibom State)
- HRM Ovai (Elder) Solomon Osim Edward, JP – Paramount Ruler of Abi L.G.A. (Cross River State)
- HRM Dein Keagborekuzi I – Dein of Agbor Kingdom (Delta State)
- HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV – Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom (Bayelsa State)
- HRM Eze Chike Anderson A. Worlu Wodo – Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom (Rivers State)
- HRH Eze (Barr.) Justine Ezeala – Ezenwanne of Obinwanne Community (Imo State)
- HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, JP – Paramount Ruler of Udung Uko L.G.A. (Akwa Ibom State)
- HRM Utsu-Ukandi Felix Ukwudari – Paramount Ruler of Obudu Kingdom (Cross River State)
These distinguished traditional rulers embody the enduring spirit of leadership in the Niger Delta, blending ancestral wisdom with contemporary initiatives to foster peace, economic empowerment, and cultural pride amid the region's unique challenges.
HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the 21st Olu of Warri, ascended the throne in August 2021 after a historic and unifying coronation. Born in 1984, he holds degrees in International Studies and Management from Case Western Reserve University. As a successful entrepreneur and advocate for community development, he has attracted foreign direct investment to Warri Kingdom, promoted humanitarian initiatives, and earned international accolades, including the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), the Most Impactful Royal Father award, and recognition for cultural promotion and African unity.
HRM Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the 40th Oba of Benin, crowned in October 2016, brings a distinguished diplomatic background, having served as Nigeria's Ambassador to several countries. He has been a tireless advocate for the repatriation of looted Benin Bronzes, issued strong measures against human trafficking, and promoted peaceful elections and cultural preservation, positioning the Benin Kingdom as a beacon of heritage and modern leadership.
HRM King Ateke Michael Tom, the first Amayanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Rivers State, crowned in 2017, transitioned from activism to royalty, bringing lasting peace and stability to Okrika. His leadership has been credited with reducing conflicts, fostering community harmony, and earning recognition from state authorities for promoting security and development in the area.
HRM Dein Keagborekuzi I of Agbor Kingdom in Delta State holds a unique place in history as one of the world's youngest crowned monarchs, ascending at just 28 months in 1979. Educated abroad and returning to lead actively, he has implemented reforms, enhanced the kingdom's visibility, and championed unity, earning respect as a symbol of resilience and progressive traditional governance.
Other nominees, such as HRH Chief Wariebi Berebozigha of Ikarama in Bayelsa, have vocally advocated for infrastructure and justice in oil-producing communities, while paramount rulers from Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Imo, Abia, and Ondo continue to uphold cultural values, mediate disputes, and drive grassroots development.
The Niger Delta Advancement Award 8.0 remains a platform for recognizing those who inspire transformation and unity in the region. The winner of the Traditional Ruler of the Year category, along with other honorees, will be announced on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Centre, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The event promises a glamorous celebration of excellence, with Red Carpet commencing at 4:00 pm and the Main Event starting at 5:00 pm.
Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng), an official media partner, will provide extensive coverage, highlighting the stories of these remarkable leaders and their contributions to the Niger Delta's advancement.
As anticipation builds toward this landmark occasion, the nominees stand as testaments to the power of traditional institution in driving sustainable progress, peace, and prosperity in one of Nigeria's most vital regions. The public is encouraged to follow updates and engage with the awards process leading up to the grand finale.
