By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The administration and staff of Njala University on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, held a colourful ceremonial reception in honour of His Royal Majesty, Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, King of the Asaba Kingdom in Delta State, Nigeria.
The event, hosted at the university’s auditorium on its Bo Campus, brought together traditional leaders, academics, and students in a vibrant celebration of culture and scholarship.
The visiting monarch, who holds the traditional title Asagba of Asaba, was welcomed with a grand cultural procession alongside Paramount Chiefs from Selenga and Kamajei Chiefdoms in Bo District. The display highlighted the shared cultural heritage across African societies and set the tone for meaningful engagement.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Cultural Heritage and Academic Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” the visit focused on the need for closer collaboration between African institutions. Discussions emphasized promoting African culture on the global stage while integrating indigenous knowledge into modern education systems.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, Mohamed Bashiru Koroma, described the institution as a center for knowledge, nation-building, and social transformation. He noted that Professor Azinge’s visit was both symbolic and strategic, reflecting a shared vision where academia and traditional leadership work together to promote justice, enlightenment, and prosperity.
Professor Koroma also highlighted the university’s plans to strengthen its academic programmes, particularly in legal education and medical sciences. He revealed ongoing efforts to develop a law faculty that blends formal legal systems with traditional justice practices, alongside expanding the College of Medical Sciences to support national development.
In his keynote address, King Azinge drew comparisons between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, stressing that academic partnerships must go beyond theory and deliver practical, policy-driven results. He argued that Africa’s development depends largely on how well its cultural heritage is preserved, modernized, and integrated into education.
He further noted that Sierra Leone is rich in cultural diversity, shaped by its ethnic groups and historical legacy, including the resettlement of freed slaves. He encouraged stakeholders to harness this diversity as a driver of national development and global cultural relevance.
Responding to the discussions, King Azinge pledged his support for the restructuring and advancement of Njala University’s law programme, as well as the growth of its College of Medical Sciences. He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting cross-border academic collaboration that encourages innovation, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
The visit marks an important step in strengthening ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, particularly in education, culture, and research. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the engagement will lead to lasting partnerships that benefit both countries.