Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has underscored the urgent need to enhance the reading culture in Nigeria, citing a decline attributed to systemic issues. Speaking at an event in Lagos on Friday, focused on promoting reading among Nigerian youths, Obi emphasized the critical role of reading in educational development and called for consistent encouragement.
The event, titled ‘Christmas Magic,’ featured the unveiling of a new children’s book titled “Mama’s Sleeping Scarf,” authored by renowned writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The gathering brought together influential figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, academics such as Prof. Hakeem Bello-Osagie, and activists like Dr. Oby Ezekwesili and Ndidi Nwuneli.
In a statement shared via X on Saturday, Peter Obi expressed concern over the decline in the reading culture among Nigerian youths. He identified systemic issues such as a poor educational system, materialistic desires, a lack of reading materials and functional libraries, and a diminishing passion for reading as contributing factors.
“Reading remains a very important aspect of our educational development, which must be encouraged always,” Obi emphasized. He highlighted the critical role of reading in building critical thinking and analytical abilities among the youth, asserting that “readers are leaders.”
Obi commended Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie for organizing the event and consistently using her literary works to advance societal causes. He thanked her for contributing to the promotion of a reading culture and societal progress.
Reiterating his vision for Nigeria’s future, the former governor emphasized the importance of encouraging gifted youths to discover their talents, fuel their passions, and develop their skills for the advancement of society. Peter Obi’s advocacy aligns with the broader goal of promoting literacy and intellectual development among the youth in Nigeria.