By Our Correspondent
Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Political Matters, Dr Maurice Ojoede, has commended traditional rulers and other stakeholders for renewed efforts to promote peace, unity and harmonious coexistence among the diverse ethnic communities in Warri and its environs.
Ojoede, a businessman, founder of Omo Foundation and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Kinging Logistics and Automobiles Ltd, gave the commendation after witnessing the August peace initiative and closing ceremony of the maiden Warri Unity Games held at the Federal Government College (FGC), Warri, on Saturday.
He particularly praised the Olu of Warri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, for the vision behind the Unity Games, describing the initiative as an important platform for promoting friendship, understanding and peaceful coexistence among the people of Warri.
According to him, the Unity Games demonstrated the ability of sports to unite people, strengthen relationships and break down barriers among communities.
“Sports can serve as a powerful bridge among diverse communities. It can break down imaginary barriers, promote understanding and create lasting bonds of friendship among people,” Ojoede said.
He also commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for supporting initiatives aimed at consolidating peace and unity in Warri.
The governor was represented at the closing ceremony by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari.
Ojoede equally lauded the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, HRM King Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Ataneru Igbi II, for his inspiring peace speech and contributions to the initiative.
He said the involvement of traditional rulers, government representatives and other stakeholders in the Unity Games reflected a shared commitment to rebuilding trust and strengthening peaceful relations among the various communities in Warri.
According to him, the games created an opportunity for residents and participants from different communities to interact beyond ethnic and traditional boundaries, stressing that such engagements were vital to building trust and achieving sustainable peace.
Ojoede expressed optimism that the Unity Games would evolve into a sustained platform for strengthening unity, friendship and peaceful coexistence across Warri and its environs.
He commended the traditional institutions, government, organisers, participating communities and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the event.
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The closing ceremony attracted prominent dignitaries, including the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro; the Obi of Aboh Kingdom, HRM Dr Gregory Nnamdi Oputa III; Commissioner for Higher Education and representative of Governor Oborevwori, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari; the Olu of Warri Kingdom, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR; Olori Atuwatse; and the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, HRM King Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Ataneru Igbi II.
Ojoede urged stakeholders across Warri to sustain the momentum generated by the peace initiative and create more opportunities for young people and communities to interact, collaborate and promote peaceful coexistence.
