The Asagba of Asaba, Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, has called on Presidents-General of communities, kingdoms, and clans across Delta State to see themselves as strategic partners in fostering leadership and accelerating grassroots development.
The call was made during the inaugural retreat for Presidents-General in Delta North Senatorial District, organized under the auspices of the Ogwa-Uku Ahaba.
Obi Azinge, immediate past President-General of the Asaba community, emphasized that community leaders should not view themselves as rivals to traditional rulers. He noted that, under both law and custom, the role of the President-General is designed to complement that of the monarch, particularly in maintaining peace and promoting sustainable development.
“Community leaders must leverage their knowledge, influence, and networks to attract meaningful projects. Development is a collective effort,” Obi Azinge stated.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Toyin Agbolayah, Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Development, commended the initiative for creating a unified platform for collaboration. He urged the Presidents-General to maintain harmonious relationships with monarchs, the ultimate custodians of community authority, and to engage closely with his office in supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s peace and development agenda.
In his welcome address, Prince Igwe Nzekwe, Chairman of the Delta North Presidents-General Forum, described the district as home to highly respected Presidents-General and elder statesmen committed to community progress.
The retreat also featured a presentation by Deacon Matthew Okwaje, Chairman of the Planning Committee, who spoke on the theme: “Presidents-General as Vital Stakeholders for Community Development.”
NIM
