By Chinedum Treasure
The University Librarian of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Stella Ngozi Anasi, has called on governments in Nigeria to implement urgent reforms to reposition libraries as key drivers of national development.
Anasi made the call while delivering the institution’s 122nd inaugural lecture titled “The Neglected Goldmine: Repositioning Nigerian Libraries at a Critical Crossroads.”
She decried the persistent neglect of libraries across the country, citing inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and limited access to information and communication technology as major challenges affecting their growth and relevance.
According to her, libraries remain critical to education, research, and economic development, but have not received the attention they deserve.
“Libraries in Nigeria have suffered years of neglect, with insufficient funding and outdated facilities limiting their impact,” she said.
Anasi noted that even in tertiary institutions where libraries support teaching and research, they are often underfunded, with resources diverted to projects perceived to have more immediate economic returns.
Despite these setbacks, she said libraries have continued to evolve to meet modern demands, stressing that they remain vital intellectual infrastructure for national growth.
She urged governments at all levels to prioritize sustainable funding, policy reforms, and the deployment of modern technologies to enhance library services nationwide.
Also speaking, UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Anyaehie, described libraries as essential to educational development and knowledge dissemination, urging scholars to translate research into practical solutions for societal challenges.
The lecture, held at the university’s auditorium in Awka, attracted academics, industry stakeholders, and students.
Tags: Nigeria, Libraries, Education, UNIZIK, National Development, ICT, Research, Policy Reforms, Anambra State
