PORT HARCOURT: The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) has expressed concern over the Federal Government’s lack of interest in the nation’s library system, attributing this to the system’s inability to generate direct revenue. NLA President Dr. Dominic Omokaro made these remarks during a press briefing at the 67th National Conference and Annual General Meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Omokaro emphasized the importance of libraries in education and manpower development, despite their lack of direct economic returns. He called for the implementation of favorable policies for library operations and urged the government to stop appointing non-librarians to manage libraries.
He highlighted the conference theme, “Promoting Diversity and Inclusiveness Through Innovative Library and Information Service Delivery in Nigeria,” and lamented the government’s insufficient support for libraries. Omokaro praised the Minister of Education’s interest in developing a library policy and called for increased funding for the Librarian Registration Council.
“Libraries are crucial for building an educated and capable workforce, essential for advancing Nigeria’s economy in the 21st century,” Omokaro stated. He urged the government to recognize the broader value of libraries and invest in their development.
