The need to revive reading culture among the youth and its benefits to the future of the society formed the crux of discussion and speeches at a one day readership promotion campaign held in Anambra.
The programme held at Alor Town Hall, Idemili South Council Area was sponsored by the National Library Of Nigeria (NLN) with the theme ‘Reading without boundaries: A renewed hope’.
The campaign is one of the NLN’s corporate social responsibility initiatives targeted at to rekindling the reading culture among the youths.
Speaking during his welcome address, the Minister Of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa said that the campaign is a clarion call on all Nigerians to embrace reading not only as a tool for literacy but as a catalyst for social change, economic advancement and national growth.
The Minister who was represented by the Chief Executive Officer of NLN, Professor Chinwe Anunobi explained that the programme was flagged off in September to mark the begining of a nationwide effort to promote reading culture and habits.
Dr Alausa stated that the theme speaks clearly to the need for inclusivity in reading and breaking down of boundaries to access reading and called for the establishment of literacy centers and book clubs in Communities so that everyone will be involve in reading and promotion of Igbo language and culture.
The member representing Idemili South at Anambra State House of Assembly, Sir Ebuka Igwe, in his speech, said that education is the bed rock of the society and making reading a habit will spur one to greater heights because it enhances the brain.
Sir Ebuka asked everyone to embrace reading as a reader today is a leader tomorrow, commending Professor Anunobi for bringing the programme home.
For the Chairperson, Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, ASUBEB, Dr Vera Nwadinobi encouraged couples to promote their mother tongue by speaking Igbo language to their wards, regretting that even those in rural areas now speak English thereby promoting other people’s language and heritage.
In his goodwill message, the President General of Alor, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu added that reading sharpens the brain and makes one confident to speak and contribute to developmental issues.
In their separate speeches, the Chairman of the occasion, Architect Joe Emefo and a member of the royal cabinet of the community, Chief Ifeanyi Obazi maintained that reading is a sure foundation each for young people and encouraged parents to help their children build such foundations.
The organizer of the program, Dr Nkechi Udeze also commended Professor Anunobi for the privilege given to the children.
The schools that attended the programme include St John Science and Technical College; Anglican Secondary School; Faith Model; and Mater Dei Secondary School all in Alor and Ave Maria Secondary School, Nnokwa.
Presentations to the winners of competitions and scholarships awards from National Library Of Nigeria were the highlights of the campaign.
