The National Library project has dragged on for an eternity, the National Library of Nigeria was established under the National Library Act of 1964. Subsequently, the creation of the National Library decree in 1970 set a new legal precedent. The decree was prompted by the National Library Board’s desire to expand the library system to other state capitals, forming a network of knowledge repositories. The National Library of Nigeria boasts a vast collection, encompassing textbooks, journals, reference materials, and government documents, among other valuable resources. Countless educators and institutions in Nigeria have championed the need for improved libraries, particularly the urgent completion of the Nigeria National Library in Abuja. This cause cannot be overstated, given the paramount importance of a fully functional National Library of Nigeria in all aspects of human existence and progress.
Akogun Lanre Adesuyi, the Chairman/CEO of the Havilah Group, recently made a bold plea to the Federal Government, urging them to expedite the long-delayed construction of the National Library complex.
Akogun Adesuyi voiced his concerns on Tuesday during the 2023 Readership Promotion Campaign (RPC) flag-off ceremony, organized by the National Library in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
Expressing his discontent, the Havilah Group Chairman bemoaned the years of neglect suffered by the National Library building project, which remains unfinished—a deplorable state of affairs that he regards as a disgrace and a stain on the nation’s reputation.
“To the new government, I implore you: enough of this shame,” pleaded Akogun Adesuyi, beseeching the administration led by President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the swift completion of the Library complex.
He further emphasized the pressing need for additional measures to rejuvenate the National Library, allowing it to make a tangible impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
The CEO of Havilah Group expressed dismay over the paltry annual budget allocated to book purchases in Nigeria, amounting to less than 100 million naira. Meanwhile, the nation continues to allocate trillions of naira to superfluous projects that offer no real benefits to the people.
According to Akogun Adesuyi, Nigeria must rekindle its reading culture if it wishes to keep pace with the rapid advancements witnessed worldwide.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the pursuit of knowledge, the National Librarian presented Akogun Lanre Adesuyi with a plaque.
The CEO of Havilah Group implored Nigerians to introspect and strive for knowledge and fresh insights, which would greatly benefit both individuals and society as a whole.
Continuing his support for a more literate Nigeria, Akogun Adesuyi pledged to donate books worth 50 million naira to the National Library. These books would be distributed to children, especially those residing in remote areas where access to quality reading materials is scarce.
He urged all those involved in the quest to complete a standardized national library not to lose heart but to persevere. According to him, this endeavor is a legacy upon which great futures will be built, and thus, it is worth all the sacrifices.
Regrettably, the National Library project has been neglected by successive governments for years, underscoring the disgraceful fact that our leaders fail to value the culture of reading. They squander millions on trivial projects, while initiatives aimed at fostering the intellectual freedom of citizens hold no significant importance to them.
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