Asagba Of Asaba Orders Mandatory Sanitation, Urges Youths To Lead Community Growth
Monarch Tasks Youths on Responsibility and Reform
THE Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has called on male youths of Asaba, known as Okwulagwe Ahaba, to take a more proactive role in community development, warning that the future of the town depends largely on their conduct and participation.
Speaking during an interactive session at Ogwa Ukwu, the monarch emphasised discipline, civic responsibility, and environmental cleanliness as critical pillars for sustaining Asaba’s growth.
Compulsory Sanitation Introduced
A major highlight of the engagement was the directive for compulsory environmental sanitation across the community. The monarch noted that maintaining a clean and healthy environment must become a collective duty, particularly among the youth population.
To enforce compliance, he announced the creation of the Asaba Sanitation Enforcement Committee, chaired by Obi Agbogidi Chukwuemekalim Ajufoh. The committee is expected to oversee regular sanitation exercises and ensure adherence across the city.
Observers say the move reflects growing concern over urban sanitation challenges in rapidly expanding cities.
Concerns Over Drug Abuse and Cultism
Beyond sanitation, the monarch raised alarm over increasing cases of drug abuse and cult-related activities among youths, describing the trend as a serious threat to peace and social stability.
He urged young people to reject destructive lifestyles and instead embrace productive engagements that contribute to both personal advancement and community development.
The Asagba commended youths for their efforts in curbing the activities of scavengers, popularly known as “iron condemn,” which have disrupted parts of the community. He also encouraged greater participation in the Asaba Vigilante Group to strengthen local security.
Shift From Land Economy to Skills
In a notable policy direction, the monarch advised youths to move away from reliance on land sales and disputes as a source of income, stressing that such practices are no longer sustainable.
Instead, he urged investment in skills acquisition, vocational training, and education, pointing to opportunities available at Federal Technical College, Asaba, which now offers degree programmes.
He highlighted ongoing palace-backed initiatives, including bursaries, scholarships, and job placement support at state and federal levels.
Inclusion and Cultural Awareness
Addressing concerns about inclusivity, the monarch acknowledged that female youths have historically lacked structured engagement within the community framework. He assured that plans are underway to establish age-grade systems that will formally integrate them into developmental activities.
Some youths also used the forum to present requests. Calls were made for the creation of job facilitation committees and for initiatives aimed at promoting Asaba history and culture among younger generations.
Support and Call for Unity
In his closing remarks, the monarch urged unity and optimism, assuring youths of better prospects ahead. As a show of support, he donated ₦500,000 to the five quarters (Ebos) of Asaba, with ₦100,000 allocated to each.
Community leaders present at the session also reinforced the message of collective progress, urging youths to abandon divisive tendencies and work together toward sustainable development.
