Nigerian Library Association Urges Federal Government to Complete National Library Headquarters in Abuja

The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) is calling for urgent action from the Federal Government to complete the uncompleted headquarters of the National Library in Abuja. This call was made at the end of the association’s 62nd National Conference and Annual General Meeting held at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The theme of the conference was “Promoting Diversity and Inclusiveness through Innovative Library and Information Services in Nigeria,” highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in delivering quality library services in the country.

President and Chairman of Council, Dominic Omokaro, emphasized the need for the association, the National Library of Nigeria, and the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria to work together to engage the government and citizens in promoting diversity and inclusion in library services.

Omokaro also pointed out the challenges faced by libraries due to inadequate funding from the government and other bodies. He stressed the importance of completing the National Library headquarters in Abuja to promote national inclusion and diversity of cultural and intellectual heritage.

In addition to funding for the National Library, Omokaro called for the development of a library policy for training Library and Information Science professionals in Nigeria. He also emphasized the need for continued funding of the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria to prevent the engagement of unqualified individuals in library positions.

The association further highlighted the need to recruit new librarians into the federal civil service to replace aging and retiring staff. They also made an appeal for the appointment of librarians as Senior Special Advisers on Library and Information Development at all levels of government.

Overall, the NLA’s call for action from the government is crucial in ensuring the development and sustainability of library services in Nigeria. By promoting diversity and inclusiveness, the association aims to enhance the quality of library services and preserve the country’s cultural and intellectual heritage.