Obasanjo: Nigeria’s literary heritage at risk due to poor reading culture

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has decried the “poor” reading culture among Nigerian youths.

Speaking on Saturday at a dialogue organised by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) in Abuja, Obasanjo said the trend could erode the country of its literary heritage.

Obasanjo spoke on the theme ‘The Writer’s Role in Nation-Building and Africa’s First Presidential Library’.

The former president said Nigeria boasts of literary giants whose works have received global recognition.

Obasanjo emphasised the need for young writers to bridge generational gaps in the literary space.

He argued that reading is the pathway to becoming a writer, but “many youths are not harnessing the opportunities provided by the internet”.

Obasanjo warned that if the poor reading culture is not quickly addressed, Nigeria could produce “uninformed” and “incompetent” leaders in the future.

“Nigeria is blessed with good writers who have used their craft in nation-building, and one of the most distinguished authors is Chinua Achebe,” he said.

“He exposed Nigeria to the world and used his writings to elevate Nigeria’s culture, particularly his own culture.”

Obasanjo commended the association for driving initiatives that inspire young Nigerians.

Shehu Sani, the former lawmaker, corroborated Obasanjo’s stance on the reading culture of Nigerian youths.

Chukwudi Eze, chairman of ANA, said the association is committed to engaging young scholars through mentorship programs.

He described Obasanjo’s presence at the event as “a motivation to the association, especially for young creative minds”.

The event also featured a discussion panel, spoken word performances, poetry, and the presentation of awards.