The Itsekiris, a tribe in southern Nigeria’s southwest Niger Delta, are a monocultural group with a long, rich cultural history. The Itsekiri are a well-known tribe for their elegance and grandeur.
The Itsekiri are synonymous with water; since most of their towns and villages are located along the Delta state’s coast, most of their activities revolve around water. Also, the king’s title, Ogiame, means “king of water.” Before the advent of roads and cars, the Itsekiri relied on the river for transporting people and goods, and the water also played host to another favourite activity, which is the boat regatta during ceremonies.
The boat regatta has been part of Itsekiri’s cultural heritage. It represents the cultural heritage usually presented to entertain the Olu of Warri in a colourful event that brings together large flotillas of decorated canoes draped in flags and various costumes, displayed by artistic decorations bearing different symbols and names. The boats usually represent communities, social-cultural groups, or individuals. The king’s boat is also present when the occasion is for the king, most especially during royal events such as the king’s burial, crowning, and coronation anniversary.