29/04/2026
A Historic Lecture and Coronation Milestone in Atissa Kingdom
The Azaiki Public Library in Amarata, Yenagoa, is set to come alive this Friday, May 1, 2026, by 2:00 PM, as distinguished personalities from across Nigeria gather for a landmark public lecture marking the coronation of His Royal Majesty, King Victor Diemeze Awala, FCIM, Ebeni-Ibe VIII, the Ebeni-Ibe of Atissa Kingdom.
The event, a central highlight of the coronation activities, promises to be more than ceremonial, it will be intellectual, cultural, and deeply symbolic.
At the heart of the occasion is a thought-provoking lecture titled:
“The Evolution of the Atissa Monarchy and the Emergence of HRM, King Victor Diemeze Awala, Ebeni-Ibe VIII, the Ebeni-Ibe of Atissa Kingdom, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, 1745–2026 AD”,
to be delivered by Professor Atei Mark Okorobia of the Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, University of Port Harcourt.
This lecture is expected to go beyond a recounting of historical timelines. It will lay a scholarly foundation for what is envisioned as a comprehensive book on the history of the Atissa people. In doing so, Professor Okorobia’s work continues the intellectual legacy of renowned historians such as Chief Nelson Yakie, Reverend Dr. Sunday Alawei Fefegha, Professor M. C. Sorgwe, and Dr. Patterson Barogu, among others who have preserved the rich heritage of the Atissa Kingdom.
The significance of the lecture lies in its dual purpose. First, it situates the emergence of King Awala within a historical continuum dating back to 1745, offering context and legitimacy to the revered stool of the Ebeni-Ibe. Second, it signals a renewed commitment by the Atissa people to document, preserve, and project their history through rigorous scholarship.
Beyond the intellectual discourse, the gathering will be a celebration of unity, heritage, and destiny. The coronation of King Awala—whose emergence, according to tradition, was foretold over a century ago—represents both continuity and renewal. His journey from distinguished civil servant to entrepreneur and now monarch embodies the resilience and vision of the Atissa people.
The presence of eminent national and regional leaders is expected to add prestige to the occasion, reflecting the importance of the Atissa Kingdom within the broader socio-political landscape of Bayelsa State and Nigeria. Traditional rulers, scholars, policymakers, and community leaders will converge in a shared moment of reflection and aspiration.
Importantly, the lecture and the coronation together mark the beginning of a new chapter, one that bridges the past with the future. With King Victor Diemeze Awala ascending the throne and a renewed intellectual drive to document Atissa history, the kingdom stands poised for a renaissance grounded in heritage, unity, and progressive leadership.
The general public is warmly invited to attend this historic event.
Come and be part of a defining moment in the history of Atissa Kingdom—where tradition meets scholarship, and the past inspires the future.
Venue: Azaiki Public Library, Amarata, Yenagoa
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Be there. History will be made.
