By Chibuzor Ogode
The Delta State Government, through the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, has facilitated the establishment of a private cemetery, Vaults and Gardens, in the capital city, Asaba.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on February 28, 2025, and was attended by key government officials, including Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Ejiro.
Other dignitaries present included the Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah; Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Ifeanyi Osuoza; and the Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area, Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the need for a more dignified and environmentally sustainable burial practice, moving away from the traditional custom of interring the deceased in residential areas.
He highlighted concerns such as environmental pollution, water contamination, and property devaluation, stating that organized cemeteries serve not only as burial sites but also as historical and cultural landmarks where legacies can be preserved.
The Governor commended Vaults and Gardens Limited for investing in the project and urged the public to take advantage of the modern facility to give their loved ones a befitting burial.
In his remarks, Chief Patrick Ukah described the project as the first private-sector-driven cemetery in the Delta State capital.
He noted that while the government was not directly involved in its establishment, the project was made possible by the enabling environment provided under Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
Supporting the initiative, Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Chairman of Oshimili South LGA, pledged the Council’s cooperation, emphasizing the public health benefits of organized burial spaces.
Similarly, the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, represented by Ogbueshi Patrick Ndili, commended the initiative, stating that the practice of burying the dead in residential areas posed significant health hazards and was no longer viable.
Delivering the welcome address, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin, Group Managing Director of Vaults and Gardens Limited, traced the origins of private cemeteries in Nigeria to Ikoyi, Lagos, where cemetery investment has become a thriving business.
He praised the Delta State Government for creating an enabling environment for the project and encouraged residents to embrace modern burial practices.
The 2000-grave capacity cemetery marks a significant milestone in modernizing burial practices in Delta State, ensuring dignity for the deceased while promoting public health and environmental sustainability.
