Culture, Character & Education: Monarch Charges Students To Remain Proud Ambassadors
Asagba Receives DELSU Cultural Association Delegation
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has called on members of the Aniocha/Oshimili Students Cultural Association of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, to remain committed to preserving and promoting their cultural heritage while pursuing academic excellence.
The monarch made the call when he received the leadership and members of the association during a courtesy visit to his palace in Asaba.
Welcoming the students, the revered traditional ruler commended them for travelling from Abraka to pay homage to the throne and praised their efforts in fostering unity among students of Aniocha and Oshimili extraction on campus.
Culture as a Tool for Identity and Unity
Asagba Azinge noted that the association’s activities reflect a shared cultural identity and common ancestral roots among its members, stressing that such initiatives play a vital role in preserving traditions for future generations.
According to him, cultural consciousness cultivated at a young age often remains relevant throughout life.
The monarch cited the recent convention of the Asaba National Association USA Inc. held in Atlanta, noting that many Asaba sons and daughters in the diaspora actively participated in cultural displays and traditional performances because of the values and traditions they acquired while growing up in Nigeria.
He said the students’ efforts to organise and sustain cultural activities within the university environment would help deepen their understanding of their heritage and strengthen community bonds.
Education and Good Conduct Remain Essential
While encouraging the students to remain active in cultural promotion, the monarch advised them not to lose focus on their academic pursuits.
He urged them to stay away from social vices and strive to become worthy representatives of their communities wherever they find themselves.
Asagba Azinge also disclosed that he might not personally attend the association’s Cultural Day scheduled for July 4, 2026, due to prior engagements, but indicated that a representative could attend on his behalf.
Support for Anti-Drug Advocacy
The monarch further highlighted the importance of youth participation in campaigns against drug abuse.
Referring to the community-driven Drug Rehabilitation Centre established in Asaba Kingdom, he urged the students to become advocates against substance abuse and help discourage young people from engaging in illicit drug use.
He stressed that community development requires collective responsibility and that youths have an important role to play in promoting healthy lifestyles and positive values.
Royal Blessings and Support
In appreciation of the visit, Asagba Azinge donated ₦100,000 to support the students’ transportation back to Abraka and offered prayers for their success and well-being.
The delegation, led by the association’s President, Comrade Umunna Kester Patrick, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and commended the monarch’s developmental initiatives, particularly the establishment of the Drug Rehabilitation Centre and other projects undertaken since his ascension to the throne.
The visit concluded with an exchange of goodwill and a group photograph, reinforcing the enduring relationship between traditional institutions and young people committed to preserving their cultural identity.
