In a move to preserve culture and redefine the image of Asaba, Delta State’s capital, the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge (SAN), has laid the foundation for the Asaba Heritage Museum — a multi-million naira project aimed at promoting the cultural identity and rapid development of Asaba.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony at the permanent Palace ground in Asaba, the monarch stated that the initiative is part of a broader vision to brand and rebrand Asaba as a “shining star on the horizon” and to maintain its status as Nigeria’s fastest-growing state capital.

The museum project, valued at an estimated N400 million, is being fully financed by the Tony Ndah Foundation, and was not part of the original palace development plan, he said.

The Asagba expressed deep gratitude to Ogbueshi Tony Ndah for personally committing to the project and for his “visionary support” towards the cultural development of the city.

“Today, by the grace of God and thanks to our son, Ogbueshi Tony Ndah, we are laying the foundation for this museum. He has provided the funds, and we are confident that by December this year, the building will be completed and handed over for use,” the monarch declared.

Prof. Azinge further revealed that while work on the main palace continues at a slower pace due to funding limitations, the museum has already received half of its contract sum and is progressing rapidly. He also disclosed that the broader palace complex — including supporting structures — is expected to be completed and inaugurated by October 2026, in time for his second coronation anniversary.

“We are trying to brand Asaba and rebrand it to the best of our ability,” he said. “We want to make sure Asaba remains the fastest-growing state capital in Nigeria.”

In a speech delivered by Mrs. Christabel Ndah-Chukwudi, on behalf of her brother, Ogbueshi Tony Ndah, founder of the Tony Ndah Foundation, the museum was described as a “monumental step” toward reclaiming the rich cultural heritage of the Asaba people.

“This edifice will house diverse exhibitions showcasing the stories of our ancestors, our contributions to art, culture, and innovation. It will serve as a platform to educate future generations about the rich legacy of Asaba and stand as a beacon of pride for Asaba people both at home and in the diaspora”, he said.

He also commended Asagba Azinge for creating a cultural space that seeks not only to preserve the past but also to inspire future generations to connect with their roots and contribute to the development of the homeland.

Emma Ogbogu, Managing Director of PROFEATS Ltd, the firm handling the project, assured that the museum would be delivered within four months and built to international standards.

“The museum will be a one-stop shop for understanding how we have been, how we are, and how we intend to be in the years ahead,” Ogbogu stated.