Stakeholders in the literary sector have renewed calls for the establishment of functional public libraries in all local government areas to strengthen literacy and reading culture nationwide.
They made the call on Tuesday at the launch of ‘Ibadan as the 2026 Book City’ and ambassadorial investiture organised by the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP).
The event, which has the theme: “Literacy, Community and the Power of Books”, attracted educators, authors and civil society groups, with discussions centred on grassroots literacy development.
President of NBRP, Prof. Oyinkan Tasie, said the absence of functional public libraries in most local councils had continued to weaken reading culture among children and young adults.
Tasie said the development had limited opportunities for learning beyond the formal school system.
Stakeholders at the event said a nationwide library project would preserve indigenous knowledge and literature, while serving as centres for learning, digital literacy and civic engagement.
They urged lawmakers and policymakers to prioritise library development in annual budget allocations.
Keynote speaker, Ms Pelumi Nubi, a solo driver from London to Lagos, said books shaped her mindset and inspired her record journey across 17 countries.
“Books made me believe I could go further and belong in spaces I once thought impossible.
“I travelled over 10,000 kilometres in 74 days through deserts, mountains and difficult border crossings, but I remained confident because of the knowledge and inspiration I gained from books,” she said.
Earlier, Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr John Asein, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting intellectual property rights.
Asein, represented by the NCC Oyo State Coordinator, Mrs Oluropo Oke, said the amended 2022 Copyright Act prescribed stiffer penalties for copyright infringement.
“We want authors, publishers, artists and other creative professionals to enjoy both moral and economic rewards for their works,” he said.
Also, Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, said reading remains a vital tool for personal and national development.
Olayiwola, represented by Mrs Adewumi Ayoola, a director from the ministry, said a strong reading culture would promote creativity, critical thinking and informed citizenship.
“In an age of endless distractions, we must deliberately encourage young people to embrace books and lifelong learning,” he said.
The event also featured awards to Asein and other Nigerians for promoting reading culture and supporting the fight against intellectual property piracy.