Urban Renewal Drive Gains Momentum As Asagba Begins Ogbeke Square Renovation
By PAULINA NZERUBE
Asagba Launches Major Urban Renewal Project at Ogbeke Square
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of the iconic Ogbeke Square Roundabout, marking another milestone in the ongoing Asaba Urban Renewal Initiative.
The ceremony, held on Sunday, brought together palace chiefs, community leaders, prominent indigenes and other distinguished guests who gathered to witness the formal commencement of a project aimed at restoring one of Asaba’s best-known landmarks.
The renovation is part of the monarch’s broader vision of modernising Asaba while preserving its historical identity. The initiative seeks to improve the city’s aesthetics, create a cleaner environment and strengthen Asaba’s appeal as a destination for investment, tourism and cultural activities.
Monarch Outlines Broader Development Vision
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Azinge reaffirmed his determination to transform Asaba into a modern and attractive city without losing sight of its rich cultural heritage.
He said the renovation of Ogbeke Square was only one component of a wider urban renewal programme that would extend to other strategic locations across the kingdom.
According to the monarch, Stop Abortion Junction, Akpa-Agu Umuagu and Kanebisi Roundabout have also been earmarked for renovation as part of the long-term beautification plan.
He disclosed that Providus Bank had agreed to undertake the renovation of Kanebisi Roundabout and expressed appreciation to the financial institution for supporting community development efforts.
Community Support Drives the Initiative
Prof. Azinge estimated the Ogbeke Square project at about ₦50 million and revealed that he had personally contributed ₦5 million toward its execution.
He also acknowledged contributions from Chief Peter Ejiofor and several eminent sons and daughters of Asaba, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, who have supported the initiative financially.
The monarch stressed that community development should not rest solely on the shoulders of government or the traditional institution. Instead, he urged all Asaba indigenes to contribute in whatever way they could toward preserving the kingdom’s heritage and promoting sustainable development.
He described the growth of Asaba as a shared responsibility and prayed for continued peace, unity and prosperity across the kingdom.
Project to Blend Modern Design with Cultural Heritage
Earlier, Ogbueshi Dili Biosah praised the monarch’s leadership and commitment to community development.
He noted that Prof. Azinge had maintained a consistent record of delivering development projects dating back to his tenure as President-General of the Asaba Development Union Worldwide.
Biosah explained that the renovated roundabout would feature a solar-powered lighting system designed to illuminate the environment while providing electricity for a water fountain that would form part of the upgraded landscape.
He added that existing sculptures and cultural artefacts at the roundabout would be preserved to ensure that the project reflects the history and traditions of the Asaba people while introducing modern infrastructure.
According to him, the project is expected to be completed and commissioned by October 2026.
Stakeholders Welcome the Initiative
Guests at the ceremony commended the traditional ruler for initiating projects aimed at improving the physical outlook of Asaba while safeguarding its cultural identity.
Many described the urban renewal programme as a practical demonstration of visionary leadership and expressed confidence that the initiative would enhance the city’s environment, stimulate economic activities and strengthen civic pride among residents.
