UNIDEL Deputy Vice Chancellor Honoured With Royal Medal By Asagba of Asaba

The Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta, Agbor (UNIDEL), Professor Patricia Mbah, has been honoured with the Royal Medal of Honour by the Asagba of Asaba, Professor Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the Asaba community.

The award presentation took place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Asagba’s palace during the annual Iwaji Festival. The festival, which celebrates the new yam, is a traditional event that highlights the cultural heritage of Asaba, offering the people an opportunity to thank God for harvests, foster unity, and preserve indigenous practices.

In his remarks, the Asagba of Asaba commended Professor Mbah for her dedication to community service, describing the recognition as a testament to the community’s gratitude for her commitment and selfless efforts. He also underscored the importance of yam in Asaba culture, lamenting that the practice of farming and celebrating the new yam festival is gradually declining, while calling for renewed efforts to preserve the tradition.

Professor Mbah, visibly moved by the honour, expressed her deep appreciation to the monarch for finding her worthy of the award. She pledged to continue contributing meaningfully to the progress and development of her community.

The Vice Chancellor of UNIDEL, Professor Stella Chiemeke, led a delegation of principal officers and council members to celebrate the Deputy Vice Chancellor. Present at the event were the Registrar, Barrister Richmond Omagbemi; the University Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Vera Okonoko; council members including Dr. Augustine Ezechine, Dr. Friday Akporherhe, Dr. Agidi Pally, Dr. Ferdinand Iweriebor, and Mr. Dono Oke.

Other UNIDEL staff who graced the occasion included Mr. Augustine Isimite, Dr. Clara Moemeke, Dr. Clifford Umeri, Dr. Maureen Uche, Dr. Tessy Apaokueze, Mrs. Abigail Ofume, and Mrs. Rita Idion, among several others.