FUNAAB Announces Plans to Establish On-Campus Bookshop to Promote Reading Culture
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has unveiled its intention to set up a fully equipped bookshop on campus, aimed at enhancing academic resources and fostering a culture of reading and research among students and faculty.
This revelation emerged during a Courtesy Visit by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ogun State Chapter, to the Vice-Chancellor's office.
RECOMMENDED: EKSU Issues Notice to Students on the Use of Identity Cards
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, disclosed this significant development during the meeting.
Prof. Kehinde underscored FUNAAB’s dedication to innovation, excellence, integrity, and global relevance, affirming the University's commitment to upholding these values across all facets of its operations, including Teaching, Research, and Extension services.
He emphasized the paramount importance of reading and book acquisition, highlighting the pivotal role the proposed bookshop would play in meeting this essential need within the academic community.
Furthermore, Prof. Kehinde unveiled plans to transform the ceded Prof. Wole Soyinka's Autonomous Republic of Ijegba (ARI) into a Resource Center for students, in collaboration with the literary icon and Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka. This initiative aims to rival contemporary libraries in terms of offerings and accessibility.
“Under the current administration, FUNAAB has made significant strides in Library reform, with a special focus on fostering a conducive environment for reading,” noted Prof. Kehinde.
He also highlighted the availability of a 24-hour section in the Nimbe Adedipe Library, designed to promote a robust reading culture among students.
In his remarks, Dr. Chris Omotosho, Chairman of ANA, Ogun State Chapter, expressed appreciation for the warm reception by FUNAAB Management. He reiterated ANA's commitment to promoting literacy and creativity, emphasizing the association's support for initiatives geared towards nurturing a reading culture among students.
SEE MORE: FUNAAB Announces Plan to Establish Wole Soyinka's Residence as Research Centre
Dr. Omotosho highlighted the upcoming World Poetry Day on March 21, 2024, as an opportunity to further engage with students and educators, soliciting FUNAAB's support to ensure the success of these events.
He emphasized the critical link between socioeconomic well-being and literacy, advocating for collaborative efforts to empower individuals through education and reading.
Other members of ANA present during the visit included Prof. Tope Olaifa, Samuel Ogunyinka, Gloria Urube, Calista Adebayo, and Femi Sanyaolu, the Association's Secretary.
The proposed establishment of a bookshop at FUNAAB marks a significant stride towards enriching academic resources and nurturing a vibrant intellectual community within the University, reflecting its commitment to holistic education and scholarly excellence.
