Optimism and firmness of resolve were shown Sunday as Senator Ned Nwoko met Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, and waxed confident that Anioma state would be created.
On a courtesy visit to the Asagba in his palace at Asaba, a month after the coronation, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North at the National Assembly, said the Federal government and all relevant authorities were keen on the creation of Anioma.
The Senator, who championed Anioma’s agitation with a Bill, said his commitment was irrevocable.
Nwoko noted that Anioma stands as the most compelling need of the people of Delta North, as they are all united across party and social lines.
He called for the support of the Asagba of Asaba to make it happen.
Senator Nwoko eulogized Obi Professor Azinge’s pedigree and said a great king reigns in Delta, with uncommon academic and administrative stature.
The lawmaker told the Asagba that he could lead Delta’s traditional institution, with his high education,
international exposure and pre-eminence of Asaba, since the colonial and post-independent times.
Senator Nwoko assured the monarch of his dedication to development and the material well-being of the people.
“Anioma state is important to me and would be actualized by concerted action. I am also committed to building lasting infrastructure while empowering the people.
“Ogwashi Uku dam and Okpai electricity projects remain dear to me. I have made substantial efforts to ensure the completion of the projects.The dam will get on steam to boost irrigation for agriculture and provide water to over 66 Anioma communities. I am concerned about the Okpai Power plant because the benefits are immeasurable to the Anioma people. The Oko road linking several communities would be constructed among other vital initiatives”
The Vice Chancellor of Sports University Idumuje-ugboko, established by Senator Nwoko, Professor Nduka Uriah, an Asaba chief told the Asagba that the Federal lawmaker was passionate about the progress of Anioma and the nation at large.
In response, the Asagba of Asaba praised Senator Nwoko for the “strategic strides taken” for the betterment of Anioma,Delta, and Nigeria.
“I appreciate your industry. I commend you for the Anioma project. We hope it becomes a reality in the fullness of time.
“We thank you for your efforts to make Federal College of Education Asaba a full-fledged university. Asaba is the only state capital in Nigeria without a Federal university. It was the wish of my predecessor that a Federal university be sited at Asaba as a compensation for the war-time massacre of Asaba people, in October 7, 1967.
“We pray for you to succeed. We are prepared to support you in the service of the people. You have excelled so far. As a broad-minded Senator, you relate across political parties and tribal inclinations. We know you as a man of class and a go-getter.
“On behalf of the Asaba kingdom, we must tell you that we are happy and proud of you. Continue to propagate the Anioma identity and philosophy”
