‘Serve the People,’ Asagba Tells Leaders As FOOG Empowers 100 Women
By NWAFOR AZINGE
Monarch Calls for People-Centred Leadership
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, has challenged political office holders across Nigeria to place the welfare of ordinary citizens at the centre of governance, insisting that leadership should be measured by its ability to improve the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.
The revered monarch made the call when he received a delegation of the FOOG Women Support Group for Asiwaju and Sheriff, led by Chief Esther Okotiebo, during a courtesy visit to his palace in Asaba.
Speaking against the backdrop of prevailing economic challenges, Asagba Azinge lamented what he described as the growing level of vulnerability among many Nigerians. He said no society could achieve sustainable development if large numbers of citizens remained trapped in poverty and economic hardship.
According to him, leaders at every level of government must aspire to achieve “the greatest happiness of the greatest number,” stressing that public office should be driven by service, compassion and measurable impact rather than political rhetoric.
Support Groups Must Promote Responsible Leadership
The monarch urged political support groups to go beyond mobilising votes during election campaigns by consistently reminding elected officials of their responsibility to serve the people faithfully after assuming office.
He noted that organisations supporting political leaders should continually advocate policies that uplift disadvantaged citizens and make governance more responsive to public needs.
Asagba Azinge maintained that genuine leadership should be reflected in improved living conditions, expanded opportunities and social protection for those at the grassroots.
Commendation for Women’s Empowerment Initiative
The royal father commended the FOOG Women Support Group for organising an empowerment programme targeted at 100 women in Asaba, describing the initiative as a practical demonstration of humanitarian service and concern for vulnerable members of society.
He said the programme reflected genuine compassion and reinforced the important role women play in promoting community development and social inclusion.
According to the monarch, one does not need to possess enormous wealth before making meaningful contributions to humanity, adding that acts of kindness and empowerment often produce lasting social impact.
He also praised the group’s commitment to supporting women and families, urging members not to relent in their efforts to improve livelihoods across communities.
Tinubu, Oborevwori Receive Royal Endorsement
The Asagba stated that the Asaba Kingdom remained appreciative of the developmental projects executed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He recalled leading a delegation from the Asaba community to meet President Tinubu, where several developmental requests were presented, adding that many of those requests had already received positive attention.
The monarch also highlighted Governor Oborevwori’s decision to revive the abandoned International Conference Centre project after drawing the governor’s attention to its importance.
He said these and other interventions had strengthened the confidence of the Asaba people in both administrations.
According to him, the Asaba community remains firmly supportive of the President and the Governor because of their demonstrated commitment to development.
Inclusive Development Remains Key
Asagba Azinge reaffirmed the traditional institution’s commitment to inclusiveness, stressing that every resident of Asaba, regardless of origin, remains an important stakeholder in the growth of the kingdom.
He described Asaba as a hospitable community that embraces diversity and welcomes everyone willing to contribute positively to its development.
He noted that beneficiaries of the empowerment programme would include residents without discrimination, reflecting the community’s longstanding tradition of openness and unity.
FOOG Seeks Royal Blessing
Earlier, leader of the delegation, Chief Esther Okotiebo, said the visit was organised to brief the monarch on the objectives of the FOOG Women Support Group and its empowerment programme for women in Asaba.
She explained that the initiative was designed to support vulnerable women through economic empowerment while complementing broader efforts aimed at improving community welfare.
Chief Okotiebo also sought the monarch’s royal blessings for the organisation and its programmes.
The visit ended with prayers, royal blessings and goodwill messages as the Asagba encouraged the group to sustain its humanitarian activities and continue promoting initiatives that positively impact vulnerable citizens.
