Warri, Warri South
The royal capital
The Olu's palace stands at the centre of the town. Only part of it is open to the public, because it is also a royal home.
Ode-Itsekiri is at its busiest during the Olu's coronation anniversary each August, with cultural displays, homage from communities across the kingdom and a royal boat regatta.
Church history
The Itsekiri were among the first people in the region to trade with the Portuguese, in the 16th century. Local tradition holds that the first church in what is now Nigeria, dedicated to Saint Anthony, was built here before 1700. The site is still known as Satone, from "Saint Anthony".
Getting there
Ode-Itsekiri is on an island, so you'll need a boat from Warri. Ask in the Discover Delta community on WhatsApp, or arrange a trip with a local operator.
Good to know
Where is the Olu of Warri crowned?
At Ode-Itsekiri, the Warri Kingdom's ancestral capital. Ogiame Atuwatse III was crowned there on 21 August 2021.
Related
Sources
- Ode-Itsekiri (Wikipedia)
- Why we coronate Olu of Warri at Ode-Itsekiri (The Guardian Nigeria)
- Ogiame Atuwatse III (Wikipedia)
- Olu of Warri's 4th coronation anniversary begins August 18 (The Guardian Nigeria)
- Itsekiri History (Office of the Olu of Warri)
Last checked 10 September 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us on WhatsApp.
