ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the state into a premier destination for investors. Speaking on Thursday during the presentation of the staff of office to the new Asagba of Asaba, Professor Epiphany Azinge (SAN), at Ogwa-Uku Ahaba, the governor emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and security across communities and urban centres to attract both domestic and foreign investments.
While congratulating Professor Azinge on his successful ascension to the throne, Governor Oborevwori highlighted Asaba’s growing appeal as a vibrant and safe city. “I note with pleasure that Asaba has become the city of choice for many who find it a safe place to raise their families,” he said. However, he cautioned that the city’s rapid growth has also attracted undesirable elements with sinister motives.
“You must remain vigilant and alert to any form of security threat that could destabilise the kingdom and, by implication, the state capital. Report any suspicious activities or persons in your communities to the relevant authorities without hesitation. Sustaining the peace and security we have been enjoying is paramount,” the governor urged.
He extended this charge to all traditional rulers in the state, emphasising their role in fostering harmony and preventing communal clashes. “One of the goals of this administration is to make Delta State the preferred investors’ destination. To achieve this, we must ensure that our communities and urban centres remain safe and secure for investors,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori called for collaboration between traditional institutions and the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council to devise effective strategies to address emerging security challenges. “This is the pathway to building the Delta State of our dreams,” he asserted.
Describing the newly installed Asagba of Asaba as a dynamic leader, the governor expressed confidence in Professor Azinge’s ability to excel. “His leadership qualities, including a statesman-like disposition and consensus-building skills, will consolidate the achievements of his predecessor and chart new frontiers for the kingdom,” he said.
He noted that Asaba’s unique position as a melting pot of diverse cultures requires a traditional ruler with a progressive and inclusive outlook. “I am fully persuaded that under his leadership, Asaba will achieve new heights in community development, peaceful co-existence, and strengthened government-community relations,” the governor stated.
Highlighting the indispensable role of traditional institutions in governance, Governor Oborevwori said: “Traditional rulers are custodians of our customs and traditions and serve as vital intermediaries between the government and the grassroots. They also assist in creating awareness about government policies and programmes, particularly in areas such as immunisation, environmental sanitation, empowerment schemes, and security.”
The governor appealed to the people of Asaba to support their new monarch wholeheartedly. “You have shown commendable understanding and harmony during the succession process. For the Asagba to succeed, he will need your continued cooperation. The kingdom is yours to promote and protect,” he said, urging residents to resist any attempts to sow discord in the community.
Earlier, the Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government, Dr Kelvin Ezenyili, welcomed guests and congratulated the new Asagba on his selection and installation. He encouraged the monarch to remain a unifying figure for his subjects.
The ceremony was a grand celebration attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and residents of Asaba, all of whom lauded the historic occasion and expressed optimism for the kingdom’s future under Professor Azinge’s leadership.
