IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
Dominic Amenaghawon Omokaro the President of the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), has called for urgent government intervention to revitalize public libraries in the country, emphasizing their essential role in fostering education and combating the growing trend of materialism among the nation’s youth.
In a recent interview, Dominic highlighted the critical role that libraries have traditionally played in educating individuals, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He stressed that libraries are not just repositories of books but hubs of knowledge that can shape the future of young Nigerians by providing equal access to information and learning resources.
According to Dominic, the neglect of public libraries by both federal and state governments has reached alarming levels. He pointed out that despite their potential to contribute significantly to the nation’s development, libraries are often overlooked and underfunded. He also emphasized that many young people today are increasingly disconnected from books, with a noticeable decline in the value placed on education and hard work.
“We are witnessing a worrying shift in societal values,” Dominic said. “Our youth are more interested in making money than investing in their minds. This is reflected in the decline of intellectual pursuits and the increasing popularity of quick wealth, which often leads to a loss of moral and ethical grounding.”
Dominic’s comments come at a time when Nigeria is facing a deepening crisis in its education sector. The National Library of Nigeria, a vital institution for promoting literacy, has been severely underfunded for years, while other public libraries across the country face similar challenges. Many libraries struggle with inadequate resources, outdated books, and a lack of qualified staff.
A Call to Action: Rebuilding the Library System
The NLA President called on the government to prioritize libraries in its development agenda, arguing that the promotion of reading and intellectual development should be seen as a key part of national progress. He proposed the establishment of a Special Adviser to the President on Library and Information Services, a position that would focus solely on the development of libraries and ensure that they receive the attention and funding they need.
“In many countries around the world, libraries are seen as a cornerstone of education,” Dominic noted. “In Nigeria, however, they are often neglected. This has to change. Libraries are the foundation upon which our nation’s future can be built. If we continue to neglect them, we will not only lose the potential of our youth, but also the future of our country.”
Dominic emphasized that the government’s failure to prioritize libraries reflects a broader issue of misalignment in policy. He pointed out that while investments are being made in sectors like technology, education continues to be neglected, especially in terms of infrastructure and support for learning institutions like libraries.
Addressing Materialism and Rebuilding Values
One of the central concerns raised by Dominic was the growing materialism among Nigeria’s youth. He argued that there has been a shift from valuing education, discipline, and intellectual growth to prioritizing wealth, often at the expense of personal development and social responsibility.
“Young Nigerians are more interested in how to make money than in how to become educated. In the past, young people aspired to become doctors, lawyers, and engineers. Today, it’s more about wanting to become rich through the quickest means possible, even if it means compromising one’s values,” Dominic said.
The rise of social media and the glamour of quick wealth has exacerbated this trend, Dominic added. He noted that many young people are now more interested in celebrity culture and the pursuit of material possessions than in pursuing careers or education that would provide them with lasting success.
“Education is no longer seen as the key to success. Instead, the focus is on instant wealth, which often comes with its own set of challenges and problems,” he remarked.
Reviving the Culture of Reading and Intellectual Pursuit
Dominic called for a cultural shift back toward the values of reading, learning, and personal development. He advocated for programs that would encourage young people to read more books and engage with information that would broaden their minds and foster a love for learning.
“Schools and libraries must work together to create an environment where young people see the value of reading and education. We need to make reading cool again, and that starts with providing access to books, creating spaces where young people can read, learn, and discuss ideas, and most importantly, teaching them the value of intellectual growth,” Dominic said.
To achieve this, Dominic believes the Nigerian Library Association must play a pivotal role in advocating for libraries and promoting literacy initiatives across the country. He also called on the media, local communities, and advocacy groups to help spread the message about the importance of education and reading in building a stronger, more sustainable future for Nigeria.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Dominic’s vision for the future is one where libraries are at the heart of a thriving educational system. He envisions a society where public libraries are well-funded, well-resourced, and fully supported by government policies that prioritize education and intellectual growth. He also believes that the promotion of libraries can play a key role in addressing the challenges posed by materialism, helping to foster a generation that values knowledge, hard work, and personal responsibility.
“It’s time to invest in our libraries and invest in our youth. The future of Nigeria depends on it,” Dominic concluded.
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