At a colourful and dignified ceremony held on April 29, 2026, at Njala University’s Bo Campus in Towama, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Rashid Ansumana, underscored the significance of the visit of His Royal Majesty, Professor Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, describing it as a milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Nigeria.
Delivering his remarks during the official welcome ceremony, Professor Rashid Ansumana noted that the presence of the Asagba of Asaba symbolized a powerful convergence between academic excellence and traditional leadership, adding that such engagements are essential in fostering regional unity and intellectual collaboration across West Africa.
He described the visiting monarch as a distinguished scholar, eminent legal authority and revered traditional ruler whose journey to the throne reflects years of discipline, scholarship, and dedicated service. According to the Deputy Vice Chancellor, the Asagba’s remarkable contributions to law and academia before ascending to kingship stand as an inspiring testament to the fusion of knowledge and leadership.
Professor Rashid Ansumana emphasized that the visit transcended ceremonial significance, highlighting its deeper implication as a bridge between two critical pillars of society; education and tradition. He stated that Njala University was honoured to host not just a royal figure, but a symbol of intellectual and cultural synergy.
“Today, Njala University receives not only a King, but a meeting point where knowledge and tradition recognize each other and stand as partners,” he declared, drawing applause from students, faculty and invited guests.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the visit, the Deputy Vice Chancellor said the life and career of the Asagba exemplify how wisdom, cultural authority and academic excellence can collectively contribute to societal development. He stressed that Africa’s future depends on leaders who can harmonize modern education with rich cultural heritage.
Professor Rashid Ansumana also used the occasion to spotlight ongoing developments at Njala University, noting that the institution continues to make significant strides in advancing higher education in Sierra Leone. He disclosed that efforts are underway to strengthen the College of Medical Sciences, expand the Department of Law and deepen investments in research and innovation.
He maintained that universities must remain at the forefront of national transformation by generating solutions to societal challenges, contributing to justice systems and amplifying African narratives through research and scholarship.
In a call for sustained collaboration, Professor Ansumana urged stronger institutional ties between Njala University and the Asaba Kingdom, noting that both entities share a common purpose of serving their people while preserving invaluable cultural heritage.
“We receive you not only as a guest, but as a partner in raising minds, preserving what must not be lost, and building bridges between Sierra Leone and Nigeria,” he stated.
Addressing students directly, the Deputy Vice Chancellor delivered a message of inspiration, encouraging them to prioritize preparation, discipline and personal development over the pursuit of instant success.
“The world does not remember those who arrive quickly. It remembers those who arrive prepared,” he advised, urging students to remain focused on long-term excellence.
The ceremony concluded on a high note, with participants expressing optimism that the royal visit would leave a lasting legacy within the university community while reinforcing the enduring bonds of cooperation, knowledge exchange and cultural diplomacy between Sierra Leone and Nigeria.
