By Abel Johngold, MNIPR
Asaba, Delta State – The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Asaba Chapter, has paid a royal courtesy visit to the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, FNIALS, seeking his support for the association’s ambitious plans to build a new Secretariat and host its Annual Lecture.
The delegation, led by Chapter Chairman Jacob Iduku Kagho, Esq., extended warm congratulations to Prof. Azinge on his ascension as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. They also formally introduced the UIAA’s presence in the capital city and sought the Asagba’s royal blessings and patronage for upcoming initiatives.
In a heartfelt welcome, the Asagba lauded the University of Ibadan as Nigeria’s first university, hailing its proud legacy and impact on the country’s development. “UI has produced some of the best and brightest minds in this nation,” he said, urging the alumni to rekindle the institution’s spirit of excellence in Asaba and beyond.
Expressing concern over the dwindling number of Asaba indigenes enrolling at the University of Ibadan, Prof. Azinge encouraged the chapter to inspire younger generations. “We must not let this tradition of excellence fade away,” he noted. He also underscored the importance of upholding the university’s high standards, particularly in medicine, surgery, and human capital development.
In his remarks, Kagho emphasized the chapter’s significant contributions to national development. “UI alumni have impacted every sector of our society for nearly seven decades,” he said, recalling how the Asaba Chapter was founded 34 years ago by visionary leaders including Hon. Chief Uso Onianwa, Chief Dr. Dianne Maduemezie, and Prof. B.A.C. Okobi.
Kagho recounted the chapter’s efforts to secure land for a permanent Secretariat, lamenting past frustrations due to government inaction. However, he expressed renewed hope that with the Asagba’s backing, the project would finally become a reality. “We believe that with your royal support, our dream of a permanent Secretariat will soon be achieved,” he affirmed.
The chapter also extended an invitation to the Asagba to serve as Royal Father of the Day at its forthcoming Annual Lecture in honour of their former Chairman, Sir Okey Ofili.
Prominent alumni who attended the visit included Prof. Job Akpodiete, Prof. Uchenna Uzokwe-Igbadi, Chief Eghwrudjakpor Irikefe, Dcn. Emmanuel Dudu, Abel Johngold, Sir Fidelis Ashuikeka, Mike Ofili, Mrs. Wendy Odor, Psalm Owhojite, Mrs. Angela Nwaomu, Hon. Chief Ambrose Nnamdi Okakwu, Mr. Ralph Ebi Nkeze, and many others.
The Asagba expressed his deep appreciation for the visit and assured the delegation of his unwavering support for their noble efforts, promising to consider their requests and lend his royal blessings to their initiatives.
