Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, also known as Tsola Emiko, is the 21st Olu of Warri. He became king on August 21, 2021. A businessman and leader, he blends tradition with modern ideas to guide the Itsekiri people in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.
| Common Name | Tsola Emiko |
| Full Name | Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko |
| Age | 41 years old (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | April 2, 1984 |
| Gender | Male |
| Occupation | Traditional Ruler |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Warri |
| State of Origin | Delta |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Net WOrth | $2 million |
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Tsola Emiko Biography
Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, popularly known as Tsola Emiko, is the 21st Olu of Warri. Born on April 2, 1984, in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, he hails from a royal lineage as the son of the 19th Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II, and Gladys Durorike Emiko. His enthronement as the Olu of Warri took place on August 21, 2021, in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries from Nigeria and beyond.
Tsola Emiko Educational Background
Tsola Emiko began his education at NNPC Primary School in Warri and later attended Adesoye College, Offa, Kwara State, for his secondary education (1995–2001). He furthered his studies at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies & Political Science with a minor in History & Economics (2002–2006). In 2007, he obtained a Master’s degree in Management from the same institution.
Tsola Emiko Career
Before ascending the throne, Tsola Emiko built a successful career in business. After completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Public Affairs Department of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) in 2008, he worked as an officer at Shell Nigeria Closed Pension Fund Administrator (SNCFPA) from 2009 to 2010. Between 2010 and 2012, he served as a Government Relations Officer at Sahara Energy. He later became a serial entrepreneur, founding Noble Nigeria Limited and Coral Curator Limited. He also holds key leadership positions, including Chairman of Ocean Marine Security Ltd and Director at Gulf of Guinea Ltd and Vessellink Nig Ltd.
Olu of Warri History
The Warri Kingdom, home to the Itsekiri people, has a long and rich history dating back to the 15th century. The monarchy was established by Olu Ginuwa, a prince from the Benin Kingdom. The Olu of Warri plays a significant role in maintaining the cultural heritage and traditions of the Itsekiri people.
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Tsola Emiko Palace
The Olu of Warri resides in the royal palace in Warri, Delta State. The palace serves as the cultural and administrative center of the Warri Kingdom, where traditional events and royal functions are held.
Tsola Emiko Awards
As a traditional ruler, Ogiame Atuwatse III has received various honors in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the Warri Kingdom. His influence continues to be acknowledged within and outside Nigeria.
Tsola Emiko Controversy
In early 2025, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, was accused of involvement in illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism through a company he chaired. However, key figures in the Warri Kingdom swiftly dismissed these claims as baseless.
Chief Godday Erewa, the Oritsuwa of Warri Kingdom, defended the monarch, highlighting his commitment to ethical leadership, regional development, and peace in the Niger Delta. The Warri Council of Chiefs, led by Chief Ema Eyewuoma, also condemned the allegations, vowing to expose those behind the smear campaign.
Beyond this, the Olu’s ascension in 2021 was initially met with opposition from the former Ologbotsere, Chief Ayiri Emami, due to a succession dispute under the 1979 Edict. Despite the controversy, the Warri Traditional Council affirmed his legitimacy, and he was crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri.
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Tsola Emiko Religion
Ogiame Atuwatse III is a devout Christian. He has openly expressed his faith and often integrates Christian values into his leadership and governance.
Tsola Emiko Age
Olu of Warri was born on April 2, 1984, he is currently 41 years old as of 2025.
Tsola Emiko Personal Life
Tsola Emiko is known for his deep love for sports, particularly swimming, kayaking, basketball, American football, and soccer. His leadership style reflects a blend of tradition and modernity.
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Tsola Emiko Wife
In 2014, he married Ivie Okunbor, the daughter of the late billionaire Captain Idahosa Okunbor. Their wedding was a lavish event, and they later held their white wedding in London.
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Tsola Emiko Children
Ogiame Atuwatse III and his wife, Ivie, are blessed with three children. He is a devoted father who values family and ensures that his children are raised with strong cultural and moral values. Despite his royal duties, he spends quality time with them, instilling leadership and tradition in their upbringing.
Tsola Emiko Parents
His father, Ogiame Atuwatse II, was the 19th Olu of Warri, and his mother, Gladys Durorike Emiko (née Okunade), is of Yoruba descent. His paternal lineage traces back to the first Olu of Warri, Olu Ginuwa, making him a direct descendant of the Benin royal family.
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Tsola Emiko Net Worth
The Olu of Warri’s net worth is estimated at $2 million as of 2025. His wealth comes from his businesses, investments in various industries, and his influential role in the Warri Kingdom.
Tsola Emiko Social Media Handles
The Olu of Warri is active on social media, where he shares updates about the Warri Kingdom and his engagements. His official handles are:
- Instagram: @oluofwarri
- X (Twitter): @Lord_Of_Warri.