Crowned with Honour: Olu of Warri Shines at 100 Most Reputable Africans Awards
Crowned with Honour: Olu of Warri Shines at 100 Most Reputable Africans Awards
In a dazzling celebration of African excellence, tradition met transformation on May 15, 2025, as Reputation Poll International and the Global Reputation Forum hosted the prestigious 100 Most Reputable Africans Awards in South Africa.
From heads of state to cultural icons, the event drew a stellar assembly of leaders redefining Africa’s narrative across governance, business, philanthropy, academia and the arts. But one presence stood tall in both symbolism and stature—His Imperial Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the revered Olu of Warri.
Ogiame Atuwatse III was honoured not only as a recipient but also as Special Guest of Honour, lending the event the gravitas of royal elegance. Representing the heritage-rich Warri Kingdom, the monarch stood as a beacon of tradition fused with contemporary leadership.
Dignitaries present included Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and global gender advocate; Nigerian spoken-word artist Maryam Bukar Hassan; African branding expert Thebe Ikalafeng; and other thought leaders like Vumile Msweli, William Wilson, Shilongo Shilongo, and Dr. Tuma Adama Gento Kamara, to name a few.
Also in attendance was Nkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi, representing the Zulu King and serving as Chair of the Kings in Council—affirming the resurgence of traditional institutions in Africa’s developmental journey.
Taking centre stage, the Olu of Warri delivered a powerful keynote that earned thunderous applause and reverberated far beyond the event hall.
“Africa’s renaissance will not come from mimicking foreign models,” he declared.
“It must be forged from within, rooted in our culture, driven by our values and led by men and women of vision and integrity.”
Since his coronation in 2021, Ogiame Atuwatse III has been celebrated for steering a new era of royal leadership—where kingship embraces economic development, diplomacy and social inclusion.
“Traditional institutions are not ornamental. They are foundational,” he said.
“The future of governance in Africa must be Afrocentric.”
In a spirited fireside chat, Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka and Busie Matsiko, President of the New York Africa Chamber of Commerce, tackled themes of women’s empowerment and leadership.
“When we empower women, we do not just change homes; we change economies,” said Mlambo-Ngcuka.
“Africa’s future must be gender-inclusive if we are serious about prosperity.”
Their dialogue emphasized mentorship, inclusion and the need for gender-balanced policymaking.
Voices for Unity and Progress
Pan-African leaders also weighed in with stirring goodwill messages:
Amb. Benjamin Quashie (ECOWAS): “The unity of Africa is not a political option—it is a survival imperative.”
Dr. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun (Namibia): “You cannot build a continent on corruption and expect prosperity.”
Mrs. Tuma Adama Gento Kamara (Sierra Leone): Called for deeper investment in girls’ education, especially in rural communities.
Dr. Sindiswa Mzamo (South Africa): Advocated for equitable healthcare as a pillar of social justice.
Opening the event, Sarah Goroh, ambassador for JetAge Nation Builders, delivered a heartfelt message on the event’s mission.
“Africa is not lacking in excellence; it is often just uncelebrated,” she noted.
“This event affirms that we can define success on our own terms.”
The awards, she said, aim to elevate Africans who embody resilience, competence and transformation.
The 100 Most Reputable Africans list is more than recognition—it’s a charge. A moral compass pointing toward a continent shaped by trust, honour and vision.
“Reputation is the currency of trust,” noted Dr. Tonye Rex Idaminabo, founder of Reputation Poll International.
“We must honour those whose lives inspire unity and progress.”
Ogiame Atuwatse III: A New Kind of Monarch
Ogiame’s inclusion on the list cements his standing as one of Africa’s most progressive traditional rulers. With a focus on women’s leadership, youth empowerment and diaspora relations, his reign redefines what it means to rule in modern Africa.
“To rule is to serve,” he said.
“A title is meaningless unless it uplifts those beneath it.”
As the curtain closed on the event, one truth echoed: Africa’s future lies in reclaiming its roots and recognizing its own heroes.
“We are not just building nations,” said the Olu in his keynote.
“We are restoring a civilization. And that restoration begins with reputation, honour and the courage to be distinctly African.”
