Asagba Of Asaba Urges Integrity As Heartland FC Fulfils Longstanding Palace Promise
Monarch Hosts Heartland FC Delegation
THE 14th Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, has emphasised the importance of integrity and keeping promises as he received the management and players of Heartland Football Club of Owerri at his palace in Asaba.
The visit took place on 14 March 2026, when the club’s delegation paid a courtesy call to the monarch to fulfil a promise made to the Asaba royal institution several years earlier.
Speaking during the meeting, the monarch noted that integrity remains one of the most valuable attributes individuals and institutions must protect.
Integrity and Accountability
The Asagba commended the club’s management for remembering the earlier commitment and returning to honour it, even though the promise had remained unfulfilled for some time.
According to him, fulfilling promises is a key principle for building trust and fostering progress in society.
“Integrity remains a valid asset every human being should protect. It is important for individuals and organisations to live up to their words,” the monarch said.
He added that keeping promises strengthens relationships and builds credibility within communities.
Vision for Football Development in Asaba
The monarch also used the occasion to reiterate his vision for the development of football in Asaba.
He said that under his leadership as the traditional ruler, plans were already underway to establish a strong and reputable football club in the city.
According to him, the initiative would contribute to youth development, sports promotion and community engagement.
“All necessary machinery is being put in place to build a strong and reputable football club in Asaba in the near future,” the monarch stated.
Delegation Explains Delayed Visit
Earlier, the spokesman of the delegation, Promise Nwachukwu, explained that the visit was meant to fulfil a commitment made in 2023 to the late 13th Asagba of Asaba, Chike Edozien.
Nwachukwu said the club had visited the palace in 2023 to seek royal blessings ahead of the Super Eight tournament held in Asaba.
The competition ultimately saw the club gain promotion to the top division of the Nigerian professional football league.
However, he admitted that after securing promotion, the club’s management failed to return to the palace to express appreciation and fulfil the earlier pledge.
Apology to the Asaba Community
Nwachukwu apologised to the Asaba community and the royal institution for the delay in honouring the promise.
He appealed to the monarch for continued royal support and blessings to enable the club to grow and achieve greater success.
The delegation also expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded them at the palace, describing the visit as an important step toward strengthening ties between the club and the Asaba community.
