Discover how the neglect of the National Library of Nigeria reflects a broader disregard for education. Explore the importance of libraries in shaping civilizations and why the NLN’s completion is crucial for Nigeria’s progress.
In many Nigerian cultures, expressions like asaaruame, tufiakwa, olorunmaje, and allah kiyaye represent outright rejection of unacceptable behaviors. These phrases vividly encapsulate the neglect of the National Library of Nigeria (NLN) by the Nigerian state—a monumental disregard for education and intellectual advancement.
This critique is not penned from a librarian’s perspective but as a call to awaken Nigeria to its failing commitment to education, exemplified by the NLN, a symbol of how seriously a nation values knowledge.
A Library in Limbo: Decades of Neglect
The NLN, conceived over 18 years ago, remains incomplete—a stagnation akin to a pregnancy exceeding its term without delivery, demanding urgent intervention. Despite significant allocations, such as TETFund’s N15 billion in 2022, the structure in Abuja’s Central Business District resembles an ancient relic rather than a beacon of knowledge.
Historical Context: Libraries as Pillars of Civilizations
Libraries have been fundamental to the progress of civilizations. The world’s oldest known library, Ashurbanipal, dates back to the 7th century BC, signifying the timeless value of information preservation. Africa boasts its legacy too, with the Al-Qarawiyyin Library in Morocco, founded in 859 AD by a Muslim woman, Fatima El-Fihri. These institutions serve as both cultural treasures and economic hubs, attracting global attention and revenue.
In stark contrast, Nigeria lacks functional monuments. The National Stadium lies in disrepair, and the National Theatre faces uncertain status. The NLN could be a symbol of pride, yet it mirrors the decay of Miss Havisham in Dickens’ Great Expectations—a ruined bride abandoned in her prime.
Global Exemplars: Libraries Beyond Books
Modern libraries transcend traditional roles. Institutions like the Library of Congress in the U.S., the British Library, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt are hubs for education, tourism, and innovation. Even universities globally boast richer collections than Nigeria’s national repository. Libraries today are gateways to intellectual freedom, social progress, and economic growth.
A Call to Action
The NLN was envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility with 11 floors, including spaces for bookstores, printing presses, clinics, and more. Its abandonment reflects a deeper national apathy toward education. As the 2025 budget looms, it is imperative for the Nigerian government to prioritize this project, ensuring its completion and functionality.
The Value of Libraries
Libraries are more than buildings; they are catalysts for lifelong learning, access to global information, and personal growth. In this digital age, they offer e-books, audiobooks, and online resources that empower societies.
Yet, Nigeria’s failure to complete the NLN is an embarrassment—a stain on its commitment to education. This piece adds to the many appeals for urgent action. The future of our nation’s intellectual and cultural legacy depends on it.
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