Olori Atuwatse III’s Foundation is Raising Climate Champions in Delta State

In commemoration of the 4th Coronation Anniversary of Their Majesties, Ogiame Atuwatse III,
CFR, 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom, and Her Royal Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort, the
Royal Iwere Foundation (RIF), humanitarian arm of the Warri Kingdom Monarchy, successfully
concluded a six-day Climate Action Bootcamp that educated and empowered 66 children from
10 schools in Warri: Nana College, Delta College, Yonwuren College, Basic Secondary School,
Benchill International School, Uwangue College, Cambridge International School, Hussey
Model College, Ugbuwangue Secondary School, and Higher Victory College.

Held from Monday, 11th to Saturday, 16th August 2024 at Ikengbuwa Primary School, Warri,
the Bootcamp embodied the Kingdom’s enduring promise to raise a generation of climate
champions who will return to their schools and communities as agents of change, advocacy,
and restoration.

Over the course of six days, the children embarked on a transformative journey of climate
education. They were introduced to the science of climate change and its local impact on
Warri’s environment and livelihoods, including first-hand exposure to the fragility of
mangroves during a guided boat trip. They explored issues of waste management and plastic
pollution, engaging in an upcycling challenge that taught them the creative power of
repurposing waste into valuable household items. They also delved into the critical subject of
energy for the future, contrasting renewable and non-renewable sources while building solar
projects that highlighted the benefits of clean energy solutions.

The programme further sharpened their voices in advocacy and leadership. Through debate
competitions on topics such as deforestation, the greenhouse effect, and community action,
the children demonstrated their growing capacity to analyse, challenge, and inspire change.
Their Majesties, Ogiame Atuwatse III and Olori Atuwatse III, graced the camp, observing the
debates and encouraging the children’s boldness in speaking truth to power. Out of eight
groups, three emerged as winners, receiving prizes in recognition of their
excellence.Additionally, His Majesty gifted all 66 children back to school cash prizes for their
commitment to become Climate Action Ambassadors.

Grounding the children in the practical realities of waste transformation, the children took a
trip to Renu Plastic Recycling, where they witnessed the recycling process in action, learning
how discarded plastics can be converted into reusable resources. Guided by facilitators from
the Department of Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources, they also
created bamboo waste bins, stools, and picture frames, reinforcing the enduring principle of
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle as a way of life.

Her Royal Majesty, Olori Atuwatse III, visioner RIF, praised the initiative:
“We are deeply proud of these children who have stepped forward as leaders. The survival of
our lands and waters depends on the courage of our youth to protect and preserve what we
hold dear.

Ms. Yvonne Omashaye, Project Lead, Climate Action Club, Royal Iwere Foundation, reflected
on the journey:

“This camp has shown us that when children are given the tools to understand
and lead, they become powerful voices for the environment. These champions
will spark ripple effects of change wherever they go.”
Adding his voice, Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede, Head of the Centre for Waste Management and
Sustainable Resources, FUPRE, emphasised the urgency:

“What we see here is the future of climate leadership in Nigeria. If such initiatives continue,
the Niger Delta will not only recover but will lead Africa in grassroots-driven climate
solutions.”

Mr. Mba Anthony Stanley Manager of Re-nu recycling Company, highlighted the waste crisis:
“Teaching children to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste is more than an academic exercise —
it is a survival strategy for our planet. This programme instils lifelong habits that can
transform entire communities.”

The camp concluded with certificate presentations, the signing of eco-pledges, and a
showcase of upcycled creations, leaving a lasting legacy of action and commitment.
“This is only the beginning,” Ms Oge Ezeobiorah, Chief Operations Officer, RIF, concluded.
“The future of climate action lies in partnerships that make programmes like this possible.
We welcome partners, organisations, and individuals who share our vision to join us in
expanding this work to more schools and communities.”