In a historic and symbolic event, His Majesty, the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III, along with his wife, Olori Atuwatse III, the queen consort of Warri Kingdom, has presented the Itsekiri Bible at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C, United States.
The presentation by the monarch took place on Friday, September 20, 2024.
The event marked a monumental moment in the spiritual and cultural journey of the Itsekiri people, whose Christian faith and traditions have played a significant role in their history.
The presentation of the Itsekiri Bible event commenced with welcoming remarks from Mrs. Jackie Green, a co-founder of the museum, who graciously gifted the Queen a signed copy of her book.
This was followed by an introduction to the Illuminations project by Dr. Carlos Campo, underscoring the global efforts to ensure Bible translations are accessible to every language group.
The Itsekiri Bible holds immense importance for the Itsekiri people, one of Nigeria’s smallest ethnic groups, primarily based in the Niger Delta region of the country.
The Bible’s translation into Itsekiri language is seen not just as a religious milestone but as a triumph for cultural preservation and identity.
Historically, the Warri Kingdom, under successive Olu monarchs, has maintained a rich tradition of leadership intertwined with Christianity since the conversion of a former Olu to Christianity in the 16th century.
Ogiame Atuwatse III spoke with deep emotion about the journey of the Itsekiri Bible, recognising the dedication of the translators, clergy, and community members who ensured its completion. His words resonated with pride for the Itsekiri people’s heritage and the significance of having their own language immortalised through scripture.
Following the King’s address, the royal couple ceremoniously placed the Itsekiri Bible on the museum’s shelves, marking its official inclusion in the Museum of the Bible’s esteemed collection. This act was celebrated as a recognition of the cultural and religious identity of the Itsekiri people on a global stage.
The ceremony concluded with a photo session and a celebratory brunch in the Members Lounge, where attendees reflected on the historical significance of the event. The presentation of the Itsekiri Bible not only cements the Warri Kingdom’s contribution to the global Christian faith but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the Itsekiri language and its people.
The event not only strengthens the cultural ties of the Itsekiri people but also underscores the role of the Warri Kingdom in preserving its language and religious traditions for future generations.
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