The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, a traditional ruler in Nigeria, underscored the vital role of education in fostering individual and community advancement at the 7th Annual Qur’an Recitation Competition. The event, hosted at FUTAC Schools in Okpella, not only honored the legacy of his predecessor, the late Andrew Dirisu, but also attracted a significant turnout of students, Islamic scholars, and community leaders, highlighting the community's commitment to religious and educational pursuits.

During his address, the monarch praised the event organizers for their continued dedication to the annual competition, emphasizing it as a meaningful tribute to the late traditional ruler. He acknowledged that the late Dirisu's legacy of piety and educational advocacy remains influential in shaping the current generation's values around learning. The competition serves not only as a platform for reciting the Qur'an but also as a venue where youth can engage in meaningful learning experiences that connect them with their cultural and religious heritage.

Lastly, the Okuokpellagbe called on the youth participants to value both Islamic teachings and formal education, asserting that knowledge is the cornerstone of personal and communal growth. His appeal reflects a broader understanding within the community of the necessity for holistic education, which combines spiritual development with practical, formal learning to prepare young people for their future roles in society.