Reading Culture Advancement: NBRP Unveils New Leadership
As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, the nation looks towards a brighter future, driven by resilience and determination. With initiatives like NBRP promoting reading culture, and economic investments, Nigeria is poised for growth. The next chapter unfolds with hope and promise, shaping a prosperous tomorrow.
The Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP) has embarked on a new chapter in its journey to promote reading culture across the country, a mission that is both timely and crucial. Nigeria’s reading culture has been on a steady decline, with the country ranked among the lowest in the world in terms of reading culture, according to the World Culture Score Index. This ranking is alarming, especially considering the rich literary history Nigeria once boasted.
Studies have shown that only 56% of Nigerian adults read at least one book per year, with the average Nigerian reading less than one book a year. The adult literacy rate stands at approximately 62%, but reading frequency is much lower. The decline in reading culture is attributed to factors such as over-reliance on technology, laziness, examination-driven learning, inadequate library facilities, and shifting societal values that prioritize material success over intellectual development.
In this context, the inauguration of NBRP’s new Executive Council, led by Professor Oyinkan Tasie, is a significant step towards reviving the reading culture in Nigeria. The new leadership team is poised to build on the foundation laid by the founding Executive and advance NBRP’s objectives nationwide. By promoting reading culture, NBRP aims to foster a knowledge-driven society that values intellectual growth, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
The event reflects a renewed sense of unity, collaboration, and commitment among members, setting the tone for another productive phase in promoting reading culture across Nigeria. With the right strategies and collective effort, Nigeria can build a society of intellectuals and educated minds, where reading is a valued habit that contributes to the country’s socioeconomic progress.
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by Dr. Kabura Zakama, was a grand affair that brought together members, past and present executives, and stakeholders committed to promoting reading culture in Nigeria. As the newly elected executives took their oath of office, administered by Mrs. Mojisola Okeya, Legal Compliance Officer, they were urged to work tirelessly to advance the objectives of the NBRP.
In his remarks, Nigerian Book Fair Trust Chairman, Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi, charged the new Exco to improve on the foundation laid by the founding Executive and to work towards promoting reading culture across Nigeria. Mrs. Awele Ilusanmi, President of the Literary Authors Multipurpose Cooperative Society, also pledged her continued support to the new leadership team and encouraged collaboration among all stakeholders.
The newly inaugurated President, Prof. Oyinkan Tasie, expressed gratitude to all members for the trust and confidence reposed in the new team. He assured everyone that the 2nd Council would work diligently to advance the objectives of the NBRP nationwide. The Public Relations Officer, Mr. Victor Damut, also expressed gratitude for the rare privilege to serve.
As the NBRP embarks on this new chapter, it is clear that the organization is committed to promoting reading culture across Nigeria. With the new Executive Council at the helm, we can expect great things from the organization in the years to come. The list of newly elected executives includes:
- Prof. Oyinkan Tasie as President
- Madam Comfort Chenge as Vice President
- Mr. Adedapo Conde as Treasurer
- Dr. Chigozie Mbadugha as Financial Secretary
- Mr. Victor Damut as Public Relations Officer
- Ms. Mary Jonas as Internal Auditor
- Mrs. Mojisola Okeya as Legal Compliance Officer
- Mr. Richard Mammah as Ex-Officio
The inauguration ceremony reflected a renewed sense of unity, collaboration, and commitment among members, setting the tone for another productive phase in promoting reading culture across Nigeria.
Comments