Dr Paul Femi Fashagba, the provost of [Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kogi_State_College_of_Education), called on parents in Okunland to deliberately introduce their children to the Yoruba language, customs and values during the 2026 Egbeda Egga Day celebration held in Ijumu Local Government Area. He argued that such exposure would cement a sense of identity and support overall community development.
Fashagba, who also serves as the national president of the [Ogale Development Union (ODU)](https://www.ogaleduunion.org), praised the organizers for delivering a well‑packaged event. He noted that sustained interaction with indigenous traditions helps youngsters stay connected to their roots. “Culture and development are interwoven, and hardly can you separate the two. We from Ijumu‑Oke, specifically Egbeda Egga, as one of the strongest communities in Ijumu‑Oke, are showcasing our culture and values,” he said.
**Why is cultural exposure important?**
The provost emphasized that culture and development are tightly linked, urging communities to preserve heritage and pass it down through generations. He added that continuous cultural activities would strengthen children’s sense of belonging and enable future generations to identify with their traditions.
**What role does the Egbeda Egga Day play?**
According to Fashagba, the festival offers a platform for prominent state personalities to engage with the community, fostering development initiatives. He called for cultural festivals to move beyond mere entertainment, becoming vehicles for community mobilisation, development, and the safeguarding of traditional values.
In summary, the educationist appealed to Ijumu residents to intensify efforts in preserving their cultural legacy, asserting that such dedication will nurture a cohesive and development‑oriented society.