The National Librarian/Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria, Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi has commended staff of the organization for improved productivity that has greatly enhanced global visibility of the National Library of Nigeria.
Professor Anunobi attributed the institution's growing international recognition to the collective hard work, innovativeness, and passion of its workforce. She cited her recent election as Vice President of the Conference of Directors of National Libraries, her appointment as a member of the International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) International Centre Governing Board, her membership of the Steering Committee for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, and her appointment as Co-Chair of the Global Task Force for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages as notable milestones that reflect the National Library's increasing prominence on the global stage.
She described these achievements as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the staff and an indication that the National Library of Nigeria is gaining international recognition for its contributions to library and information services.
The National Librarian stated this during her week-long interactive engagement with staff held from Monday July 6th to Friday, July 10th 2026. The interactive engagement covered all the nine departments at the National Library Headquarters, Abuja and the 34 State branches of National Library of Nigeria virtually.
The interactive sessions formed part of Professor Anunobi's ongoing efforts to strengthen communication with staff, assess departmental achievements, identify operational challenges, and collectively develop strategies for improving service delivery and advancing the mandate of the National Library of Nigeria.
Receiving the National Librarian to their departments, the respective Heads of Department described the visit as a valuable opportunity to showcase their activities, achievements, challenges, and future aspirations. They expressed appreciation for the digital innovations introduced by the National Librarian, noting that the initiatives have significantly enhanced efficiency and productivity across the various departments.
The departmental heads also highlighted the strategic roles their departments play in supporting the statutory mandate of the National Library while outlining notable achievements recorded under their leadership. They, however, identified several operational challenges affecting effective service delivery, including poor internet connectivity, inadequate computer systems, faulty air-conditioning units, and insufficient office furniture.
Responding to the issues raised, Professor Anunobi commended staff for their dedication, professionalism, and innovative contributions, noting that their collective efforts have significantly enhanced the visibility and international recognition of the National Library of Nigeria.
Addressing concerns raised by staff across the various departments regarding poor internet connectivity, inadequate computer systems, faulty air-conditioning units, and insufficient office furniture, the National Librarian acknowledged the funding challenges confronting the organization. She further noted that the National Library of Nigeria is not a revenue-generating agency and relies entirely on government funding to carry out its statutory responsibilities.
Despite the financial constraints, she assured staff of management's commitment to addressing urgent departmental needs through the monthly imprest allocated to Heads of Departments to resolve minor operational issues. She urged staff to remain patient, emphasizing that while some challenges may not be resolved immediately, they can be effectively managed pending long-term solutions.
The National Librarian also encouraged staff to familiarize themselves with the National Library of Nigeria Strategic Plan (2025–2030) and align their daily responsibilities with its objectives. She emphasized the importance of professionalism, respect for constituted authority, adherence to the Public Service Rules, and strict compliance with the Performance Management System (PMS) by accurately documenting daily tasks for effective performance evaluation.
She further urged staff to understand the organization's vision and mission and remain committed to achieving its strategic goals through diligence, discipline, and teamwork.
Professor Anunobi concluded the engagements by reminding staff that commitment, hard work, and collaboration remain the foundation for institutional growth, adding that, "the reward for hard work is more work."