FG Urges Former Presidents to Establish Libraries in Schools

The Federal Government has announced plans to encourage former Nigerian presidents to establish functional libraries in schools nationwide. The initiative aims to improve library services and foster a culture of reading among Nigerians. Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, made this known in Abuja during the flag-off of the 2024 national readership promotion campaign.

Professor Mamman emphasized the need to review the National Policy on Library and Information System, aligning it with the Education for Renewed Hope Roadmap, which promotes literacy and a love for reading in schools. He highlighted strategies to encourage library endowments by private citizens, corporate bodies, and former presidents to establish functional libraries in schools.

Represented by the Director of Special Duties, Abdullahi Zubairu, Mamman stressed that reading is essential for lifelong learning and acquiring skills needed to navigate modern challenges. The government also plans to engage authors and publishers to meet quality standards for educational resources.

The National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), Professor Veronica Anunobi, announced that the campaign would be conducted in 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The NLN will donate books and educational materials to primary and secondary schools, including vulnerable groups, to support their learning journey.

Anunobi highlighted the campaign's focus on students in primary and secondary schools, especially those in hard-to-reach communities. Previous campaigns have reached various groups, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, correctional centers, artisans, market groups, hospitals, and motor parks, promoting reading inclusivity.

To further enhance reading culture, Anunobi revealed plans to establish a National Reading Day and reintroduce reading hours in school timetables. The NLN has already set up 94 reading clubs nationwide, with more planned by the year's end. Additionally, state branches are modernizing their facilities to create inviting reading environments and provide access to a wide range of online resources available 24/7.