The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Professor Epiphany Azinge, has praised the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and its alumni for their enduring legacy of academic excellence, urging them to continue projecting the institution as Nigeria’s best.
“We have imbibed and internalized 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 monarch declared.
He expressed confidence that the same spirit that defined the UNILAG experience would inspire other institutions across the country, including the emerging Denis Osadebe University in Asaba.
He prayed for the visiting delegation, saying: “My prayer is that the God of our ancestors will be with all of you. May you continue to grow from grace to grace, from glory to glory.”
Describing Asaba as a land of peace, prosperity, and divine favour, the Asagba added: “We beat our chests with pride that we are the custodians here in Asaba, the fastest growing city capital, not just in Nigeria, but in Africa south of the Sahara. Asaba land blesses people. That’s why the SSG can say Asaba is Makkah. The land blesses, and it is that blessing I am bestowing upon all of you.”
Looking proudly at the delegation before him, the monarch noted the presence of accomplished UNILAG alumni who, he said, embody a culture of excellence. “I am very proud to belong to the University of Lagos Alumni,” he affirmed.
The royal pronouncements came during a courtesy visit by the Asaba Chapter of the UNILAG Alumni Association, led by Chapter President Mr. Patrick Olisa Dibie.
Mr. Dibie, while presenting the group, tendered apologies for the delay in visiting and appealed to the Asagba to extend to the association the same goodwill he had shown in his distinguished service to law, academia, the Church, the Commonwealth, and his alma mater, St. Patrick’s College, Asaba.
Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas presented gifts on behalf of the alumni and delivered a formal letter inviting the monarch to Lagos on October 12, 2025, to receive a national award from the UNILAG Alumni Association.
In closing, the Asagba reiterated his appreciation, encouraged members to work for the collective good of society, and gave his blessings generously. The visit ended with a group photograph and warm exchanges between the monarch and his fellow alumni.
The delegation included Barrister M. O. Nwamu, Elder C. Ngemegwai, Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, Obi Henry Kikachukwu, Professor Benjamin Oghojafor, Dr. Derick Eke, Barrister Bridget Anyafulu, Barrister Princess Ajudua, and Barrister Emmanuel Diei. They were guided by the Palace Secretary, High Chief Patrick Ndili.
