In a grand tribute that resonated with themes of heritage, leadership, and progress, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has warmly commended the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, on the occasion of his 70th birthday. The Governor portrayed the esteemed monarch as a shining exemplar of wisdom, cultural preservation, and communal unity, whose transformative reign has significantly enhanced the stature of Asaba, the broader Anioma nation, and Delta State on both national and international platforms.
The heartfelt accolades were delivered during the prestigious Asagba of Asaba Lecture Series, hosted at Dennis Osadebay University in Asaba. This intellectual gathering served as a centerpiece for honoring the monarch's milestone birthday, drawing a distinguished assembly of guests from various sectors of Nigerian society. Governor Oborevwori, unable to attend in person, was ably represented by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, who conveyed the Governor's message with eloquence and reverence.
In his address, Governor Oborevwori emphasized that the event transcended a mere birthday commemoration; it symbolized "seven decades of grace, leadership, and devoted service to humanity." He articulated, "Today, we celebrate more than a birthday; we mark a milestone, seventy remarkable years of life and decades of devoted service to the people of Asaba, the Anioma nation, Delta State, and indeed Nigeria as a whole." This statement underscored the profound impact of Obi Azinge's life, highlighting how his journey has interwoven personal achievement with communal advancement.
The Governor lavished praise on the Asagba for his role as "a source of wisdom, dignity, and cultural rebirth." He noted that under the monarch's stewardship, the rich traditions of the Asaba people have not only been safeguarded but also amplified, gaining prominence far beyond local boundaries. This projection of Asaba's heritage onto the national and global stage, according to Oborevwori, has fostered a renewed sense of pride and identity among the Anioma people and Deltans at large.
Delving deeper into the monarch's contributions, Governor Oborevwori highlighted Obi Azinge's intellectual prowess and multifaceted engagements. The Asagba, a professor by training, has made indelible marks in academia, peacebuilding initiatives, and youth empowerment programs. These efforts, the Governor observed, demonstrate a rare blend of scholarly depth and practical leadership. "As Governor of Delta State, I deeply appreciate the vital role traditional institutions play in promoting peace, development, and identity," Oborevwori stated. He positioned the Asagba as a standout figure among Nigeria's traditional rulers—a guardian of customs who adeptly integrates age-old practices with contemporary advancements.
The lecture series itself was lauded as an apt homage to Obi Azinge's enduring commitment to knowledge and societal improvement. Governor Oborevwori described it as a reflection of the monarch's lifelong dedication to intellectual discourse and enlightenment. "This lecture reminds us that leadership is not just about power or position; it is about ideas, engagement, and the courage to shape society through knowledge and vision," he remarked. By framing leadership in these terms, the Governor drew a parallel between the Asagba's approach and the broader needs of modern governance, where innovation must coexist with respect for roots.
In a call to action, Oborevwori urged the people of Delta State to emulate the monarch's exemplary qualities. He advocated for a renewed pledge to "unity in diversity, respect for tradition, and the continuous pursuit of excellence." Envisioning a prosperous future, the Governor said, "Let us build a Delta State where every community flourishes, every culture is valued, and every citizen has a sense of purpose." This vision aligns with the Asagba's own initiatives, which have often bridged divides and promoted inclusive growth.
On behalf of the Delta State government and its citizens, Governor Oborevwori extended formal felicitations to the monarch, accompanied by prayers for his continued well-being. "Your Majesty, on behalf of the Government and people of Delta State, I offer our heartfelt congratulations. May your reign continue in peace, good health, and prosperity. May your wisdom continue to guide us, and may your legacy endure for generations to come," he concluded, evoking a sense of enduring gratitude and optimism.
The lecture series formed part of an expansive week-long festivities celebrating the Asagba's 70 years—a period marked by reflections on his impactful contributions to humanity. Attendees included high-profile dignitaries from politics, academia, business, and traditional institutions across Nigeria, underscoring the monarch's wide-reaching influence. The event not only honored Obi Azinge's personal milestones but also reinforced the pivotal role of traditional leadership in fostering national cohesion.
Asaba, the ancient capital of Delta State, pulsates with historical significance as a cradle of Igbo culture in the Niger Delta region. The Asagba's throne, one of the most revered in the Anioma enclave, has historically served as a stabilizing force amid Nigeria's complex socio-political landscape. Obi Epiphany Azinge ascended the throne amid high expectations, bringing with him a background in legal scholarship and public service. His 70th birthday celebrations thus provided an opportunity to recount tales of his reign: from mediating communal disputes to championing educational reforms and cultural festivals that revive dormant traditions.
Governor Oborevwori's tribute also subtly highlighted the symbiotic relationship between state government and traditional institutions. In Delta State, a diverse polity comprising multiple ethnic groups, such partnerships are crucial for sustainable development. The Asagba's efforts in peacebuilding, for instance, have complemented governmental initiatives in conflict resolution, particularly in areas prone to resource-based tensions. Similarly, his focus on youth development—through scholarships, mentorship programs, and cultural education—aligns with the state's agenda for human capital investment.
The Dennis Osadebay University, named after a pioneering Nigerian statesman, provided a fitting venue for the lecture series. The institution, relatively young yet ambitious, symbolizes Delta State's push toward educational excellence. Hosting the event there amplified the message of blending tradition with modernity, a hallmark of Obi Azinge's leadership philosophy.
Beyond the speeches, the week-long program featured cultural displays, symposia, and community engagements, allowing participants to immerse in Asaba's vibrant heritage. Traditional dances, artisanal exhibitions, and storytelling sessions evoked the monarch's role in cultural rebirth. These activities not only entertained but educated younger generations on the importance of preserving identity in a globalized world.
In essence, the celebration encapsulated a narrative of resilience and vision. As Nigeria navigates contemporary challenges—economic shifts, cultural erosion, and social fragmentation—figures like the Asagba of Asaba offer timeless lessons. Governor Oborevwori's words served as a rallying cry: to honor such leaders by translating their values into collective action.
As the festivities drew to a close, a resounding sentiment echoed: Asaba salutes you. Delta State honors you. Nigeria celebrates you. This triad of acknowledgment affirms Obi Azinge's indelible legacy, ensuring that his 70 years of grace continue to inspire long into the future.
