On Tuesday, November 19, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi shared his concerns about the decline in reading habits among young people in Nigeria. He spoke during the 9th edition of the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, held at the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library in Awka, Anambra State.
Obi, represented by his special aide, Professor Stella Okunna, addressed the crowd at the event, which was organized by Izunna Okafor in partnership with the Anambra State Library Board. He emphasized that the best way to honor the memory of Nigeria’s legendary writer, Chinua Achebe, is by nurturing more literary talents among young students.
Obi said, “Many parents are not helping matters. The children are not encouraged, and that’s one of the key factors responsible for the decline in our reading culture. Schools should encourage students to read beyond their recommended textbooks.”
He expressed concern that today’s children are becoming too focused on only the textbooks they use in school. He urged students to widen their reading habits, exploring books beyond the classroom, and to stay committed to reading regularly.
“Students should be persistent and consistent in their reading habits,” Obi added. “We need to encourage them to explore books on different subjects, not just those that are required for school.”
Izunna Okafor, the event organizer and coordinator of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers, Anambra State chapter, shared the purpose of the annual Achebe lecture. “The goal is not just to honor Achebe, but to inspire young ones to become talented writers who will carry forward his literary legacy,” he said.
Comrade Don Onyenji, the Anambra State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, who represented Governor Charles Soludo, praised the event for raising awareness about the importance of reading. “The decline in reading culture is a serious issue that has affected the literary world,” he said.
The event also saw representatives from eight secondary schools in the area. Students participated in discussions and activities, learning more about the importance of literature and how they, too, can contribute to Nigeria’s literary future.
