When Christianity first arrived the geographical region that is now Nigeria, it was first received in Ode Itsekiri centuries ago where the Catholic Missionaries set up the first church in the ancient Warri kingdom -The St. Anthony(Satone) Catholic Church Ode-Itsekiri.
Several children of the kingdom were drawn to the Christian faith at the time including Olu Atuwatse I, who was later inducted into the Order of Christ in Lisbon, Portugal.
The story of the ecclesiastical influence on Itsekiri tradition continues to be evident as you will see semblance between outfits of the papacy and ceremonial adornments of the Olu and Ojoye (chiefs). The silver crown that has adorned the head of several Olus which was first gifted to Olu Atuwatse I while he was in Portugal also bares fact to this, as it bares atop it a cross, the symbol of the church and of Christ.
In commemoration of the generations of relationship between Warri kingdom and the Catholic Church, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, today was at hand to witness the installation of the new Bishop of the Warri Dioceses, Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, by the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi.
Ordination into bishopric is one that demands absolute consecration and submission to God as the minister holds the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Order and is now responsible for teaching doctrine amongst many other sacred duties. His Majesty and the entire kingdom joins all catholic faithfuls in giving good wishes to the newly ordained bishop and prays the good hand of the Lord avails him strength for the service ahead.
