The Nigerian Senate paid tribute to the late Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Joseph Chike Edozien, following a heartfelt homage delivered by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North senatorial district.
During the Thursday plenary session, Senator Nwoko spoke eloquently about Asagba Edozien’s remarkable legacy, urging a moment of silence to honor his enduring contributions and profound impact on the nation. The Senate graciously honored the revered royal father in accordance with Senator Nwoko’s tribute.
Senator Ned Nwoko’s tribute to the revered monarch read in full:
“In Memoriam of a Scholar’s Legacy: A Tribute to a National Treasure, Asagba (Professor) Joseph Chike Edozien
Sponsor: Senator Ned Munir Nwoko ( Delta North)
Honourable Senate President, distinguished colleagues,
Today, I rise to pay a heartfelt tribute to a towering figure, a beacon of wisdom, and a cherished leader, Asagba (Professor) Joseph Chike Edozien, a luminary whose journey from early beginnings to esteemed leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration for us all.
Born on July 28, 1925, Asagba Edozien’s story is one of academic excellence and notable achievements. His educational journey began at the Catholic School in Warri, followed by Christ the King College (CKC) Onitsha and Higher College in Yaba, Lagos. In 1944, he pursued higher education at the University College, Dublin, Ireland, where he earned multiple degrees with honors, including a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.
After departing Nigeria in 1967, Asagba Edozien became a Professor of Nutrition at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States. In 1971, he assumed the role of Professor and Head of the Department of Nutrition at the University of North Carolina, where he served for 20 years, leaving an indelible mark on the field of nutrition and public health.
As a scholar, Asagba Edozien made significant contributions to the field of medicine, serving as a lecturer in Clinical Biochemistry at Middlesex Hospital Medical School, University of London, and later as a senior lecturer in Clinical Pathology at the University College, Ibadan. In 1961, he achieved the milestone of becoming a professor in Chemical Pathology, solidifying his place as a trailblazer in academia.
His influence extended beyond academia, as evidenced by his pivotal role in establishing the University of Benin and his dedicated service as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Institute for Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos. In 2003, he was honored with the national honor of Commander of the Federal Republic by President Olusegun Obasanjo, highlighting his significant contributions to Nigerian affairs.
As the 13th Asagba of Asaba, Asagba Edozien demonstrated unwavering commitment to his people and the preservation of tradition and culture. He also served as Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and the Federal University, Gashua.
Distinguished colleagues, Asagba (Professor) Joseph Chike Edozien will be remembered for numerous remarkable qualities:
• As a distinguished academic and a beacon in the field of medicine, sought after by prestigious institutions worldwide.
• As a patriot who loves his country and inspite of his sojourn abroad did not hesitate to render service to his dear nation.
• As a steadfast symbol of the traditional institution, embodying its values with unwavering dedication.
• As a recipient of national honors, recognizing his outstanding contributions to society.
• Above all, as a compassionate, fair, and progressive traditional ruler, leaving a lasting legacy of integrity and leadership.
In remembrance of Asagba Edozien’s legacy, I urge that we observe a moment of silence in recognition of his profound impact on our nation and his enduring contributions.”
