By Kingsley Chibuzor
The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, on Saturday teed off the maiden edition of the Prof. Epiphany Azinge (Asagba of Asaba) Golf Tournament at the Ibori Golf and Country Club (IGCC), Asaba, marking another milestone in the sporting and social life of the Delta State capital.
The colourful event also witnessed the formal decoration of the revered Monarch as Patron of the Ibori Golf and Country Club, following his acceptance of the appointment by the Club’s leadership.
Speaking at the event, Asagba Prof. Azinge expressed deep appreciation to the Captain of the Club, Chief Patrick Ukah, members of the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees for the honour accorded him.
He commended the organisers for the successful hosting of the tournament and praised the participants for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship.
The Asagba personally presented awards to the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up of the tournament, congratulating them on their impressive performances.
Historically, the First Class traditional ruler traced the evolution of Asaba from the era of early discovery through the Royal Niger Company period to its designation as the capital of Delta State in 1991, noting that Asaba had since grown into a major centre for tourism, hospitality and socioeconomic activities.
Describing the Ibori Golf and Country Club as a critical asset to the Asaba Kingdom, Asagba Prof. Azinge urged traditional title holders, political leaders and indigenes of Asaba to support the Club through membership and active participation.
He expressed satisfaction with the state of the golf course, encouraging the management to sustain proper maintenance of the facility.
Demonstrating his commitment to the growth and development of the Club, the Asagba kick-started the proposed Cart Shade Project with a donation of ₦5 million, followed by the donation of ₦500,000 each by Obi Onyemanaogeme Ajufoh and Hon. Engr. Kennedy Okafor, while several other members made financial pledges toward the project.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Captain of IGCC, Chief Patrick Ukah, thanked the Asagba for honouring the Club with his presence and accepting the role of Patron.
He formally decorated the Monarch alongside members of the Board of Trustees, describing his patronage as a major boost to the Club’s vision and future development.
The event attracted prominent traditional rulers, political leaders, golfers and distinguished guests from within and outside Delta State.
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