The National Library of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Abuja chapter of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters, NBRP, on Tuesday 20th August 2024, unveiled the Logo for the 2025 Abuja Book City project.
Addressing the stakeholders at the occasion, the National Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi stated that the National Library is pleased to be part of the project which also aligns with its vision of Connecting and Building an Informed Citizenry, and asserted that together, we can make Abuja 2025 a year to remember, for the power of book and reading.
The project, according to her, is yet another noteworthy step towards collective efforts to creating a thriving reading culture in Nigeria, serving as a means of "cascading the UNESCO World Book Capital (WBC) to all levels of human endeavours.
Prof. Anunobi recalled the history of UNESCO World Book Capital initiative which started in 2001 with Madrid as the first World Book Capital. The initiative according to her, has become a bedrock of promotion and reawakening of people's interest in the importance of turning the pages of quality books for lifelong learning. She therefore charged all stakeholders in the book industry, such as publishers, authors, booksellers and library associations to work together to advance this all important initiative.
The Coordinator of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters, Abuja Chapter, Chief Love Olowookere in an opening remark, outlined the activities that will take place during the 2025 Abuja Book City Project. These activities according to him include, a pre-event, core and post-event Programmes. He also updated the stakeholders on the status report and urged everyone to work together to ensure the success of the project.
Other stakeholders present during the unveiling ceremony included the National Copyright Commission represented by Mr. Amos Abutu, the President of the Nigeria Library Association, Pastor Dominic Omokaro and others.