Reading, a Unifying Factor, Says Omokaro at NBRP Conference
Jerry Adesewo
Pastor Dr. Dominic Amenaghawon Omokaro, immediate past President of the Nigerian Library Association, has described reading as one of the most powerful tools for national unity, identity, and development. He stated this while delivering the keynote address at the Annual General Meeting and National Reading Conference of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP), held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in Abuja.
READ ALSO: Mothers as Gold, Fathers as Mirrors: Lessons from the Ballon d’Or
Speaking on the theme “Reading, A Unifying Factor,” Omokaro noted that in a world marked by ethnic, political, economic, and generational divides, reading stands out as a bridge that binds humanity through shared knowledge, empathy, and imagination.
“Reading is not just an intellectual activity; it is a cultural glue, a moral compass, a source of national identity, and a pathway to unity,” he said.
He explained that reading transcends boundaries, promotes dialogue, builds national identity, and strengthens family and community bonds. According to him, nations are built on shared stories that inspire unity, and Nigeria must rediscover its heroes and heritage through books.
“When our young ones read about Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, or Flora Nwapa, they connect to the dreams that founded Nigeria. These shared stories unite us as one people,” he stressed.
Omokaro, however, warned that the declining reading culture among young Nigerians, inadequate libraries, the high cost of books, and the neglect of indigenous literature remain serious challenges.
He outlined several actions needed to reposition reading as a national priority, including strengthening book clubs and networks, revitalizing libraries in schools and communities, supporting Nigerian authors and publishers, and leveraging digital technology for reading promotion.
Concluding his keynote, Omokaro reminded participants that reading is central to peace and development.
“If Nigeria must rise above division, if Africa must chart a new destiny, if humanity must thrive in unity—then we must read together, learn together, and dream together. Readers are leaders, and a reading nation is a leading nation,” he said.
The conference, organized by NBRP, and chaired by Professor Udenta Udenta, brought together book club leaders, librarians, bookstores, authors, and reading advocates from across the country to deepen collaboration in promoting literacy and a robust reading culture.
Reading, a Unifying Factor, Says Omokaro at NBRP Conference