King Misuzulu KaZwelithini of the Zulu nation has signed a symbolic pledge of cooperation with the King of the Itsekiri people of Nigeria.
The pledge was signed on Friday at KwaKhangelamankengane royal palace in Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal during the visit of King Ògíamè Atúwàtse III, CFR – The Olú of Warri.
In his speech to welcome the delegation of the Nigerian kingdom, King Misuzulu said the visit was far more than a ceremonial visit. It was a sacred reawakening of ancestral bonds between the Zulu nation and the Itsekiri people.
United by legacy, kingship
He added that although the two nations are separated by geographical boundaries, they are united by legacy, by kingship, “and by our enduring role as custodians of African dignity, culture, and heritage”.
He reminded the delegation that their historic visit signified the rekindling of a long-overdue royal dialogue between their sovereign royal houses.
“It is a meeting of purpose. Born not out of convenience but out of a shared vision to lead our people into a future rooted in identity. A future guided by wisdom, and empowered by unity. Earlier today in a private session, we solemnised this moment by signing a pledge of collaboration. A symbolic and intentional act that will echo for generations to come.
“This pledge, signed by both our royal hands, lays the foundation for cooperation in the following critical areas: socioeconomic cooperation, cultural exchange and potential investments between our kingdoms,” the Zulu king said.
Spiritual commitment
King Misuzulu also said the collaboration is not merely a document. It is a spiritual commitment and a declaration that the two African monarchies are not relics of the past but engines of empowerment for the present and the future.
“Through this pledge, we affirm that our kingdoms are ready to build trade bridges, cultural platforms, and sustainable partnerships that benefit our people. Let it be known to the world, and especially to Africa, that this royal engagement is a living testimony of Pan-African unity in action. It is a reminder that our crowns are not only symbols of tradition but also vessels of transformation.
“As Zulu and Itsekiri, as Warri and KwaZulu, we say today with one voice: we are stronger together. Let this be the first of many steps we take side by side. Toward restoring pride, wealth, and sovereignty to our people across the continent.
“May the spirits of our great ancestors smile upon this union. May the Almighty bless our kingdoms and all who dwell under their banners.”
