By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has described the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as Nigeria’s foremost institution of higher learning, declaring that its graduates carry an enduring emblem of excellence and distinction.
The revered monarch made the declaration when he received members of the University of Lagos Alumni Association, Asaba Chapter, at his palace in the Delta State capital.
“We have imbibed and internalized values in the course of our journey. Let the world see the worth of our training. Let the world proclaim that yes, going to UNILAG is indeed going to the best university that Nigeria can offer,” the Asagba stated, drawing loud applause from the delegation.
Prof. Azinge, himself a distinguished UNILAG alumnus and accomplished academic, praised the association for sustaining the legacy of the institution. He expressed confidence that the same culture of excellence that defines UNILAG would inspire emerging universities across the country, including Asaba’s own Denis Osadebe University.
The Asagba also used the occasion to reaffirm Asaba’s growing influence, declaring it “the fastest-growing state capital south of the Sahara.”
“Asaba is a land of peace and prosperity. The land blesses people. That is why the SSG can say Asaba is Makkah. The land blesses, and it is that blessing I am bestowing upon all of you,” he proclaimed, invoking ancestral prayers upon the delegation.
Earlier, the Asaba Chapter President, Mr. Patrick Olisa Dibie, expressed gratitude for the royal audience, apologizing for the delayed courtesy visit. He extolled the Asagba’s towering achievements in law, academia, and faith, and prayed that the monarch would extend the same goodwill to the Asaba chapter of UNILAG Alumni.
The visit also featured gift presentations and a formal invitation to the monarch from the national body of the UNILAG Alumni Association, requesting his presence in Lagos on October 12, 2025, to receive a prestigious national award.
Leading the delegation were eminent personalities, including Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, Barr. M.O. Nwamu, Elder C. Ngemegwai, Obi Henry Kikachukwu, Prof. Benjamin Oghojafor, Dr. Derick Eke, Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, Barr. Princess Ajudua, and Barr. Emmanuel Diei. The team was guided by the Palace Secretary, High Chief Patrick Ndili.
The event, which followed full cultural protocols of the Asaba Council of Chiefs, ended with royal blessings and a group photograph.