Mr Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has stressed the need to improve the reading culture in Nigeria, which he said has drastically nosedived because of inordinate desire for materialism.
The former governor of Anambra State said this at an event in Lagos on Friday aimed at advancing reading culture among Nigerian youths.
The event titled ‘Christmas Magic,’ featured the unveiling of a new children’s book called “Mama’s Sleeping Scarf” written by award winning author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
According to Obi, reading remains a very important aspect of the educational development, which must be encouraged always.
Obi in a statement posted on his official X handle said, “Reading remains a very important aspect of our educational development, which must be encouraged always.
“Sadly, the reading culture among Nigerian youths has continued to decline due to a poor educational system, an inordinate desire for materialism, a lack of reading materials and functional libraries, and above all, the dying passion for reading among the youth.”
“Readers are leaders, they say. Reading will help the youth to build their critical thinking and analytical ability to succeed in an ever-complex world,” Obi stated, echoing a common refrain at the event.
He commended the Chimamanda for consistently using her literary works to promote societal causes.
“I thank Chimamanda for organising this wonderful event, and for consistently advancing the cause of our society through her literary works,” he said.
Obi however, reaffirmed his vision for Nigeria’s future.
“As I have always maintained, our New Nigeria will encourage our very gifted youths to discover their talents, fuel their passions, and develop their skills for the progress of our society”.
