Former President Olusegun Obasanjo raises alarm over Nigeria’s declining reading culture, urging efforts to preserve the nation’s literary legacy
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep concern over the growing decline in reading culture among young Nigerians, warning that this worrying trend could erode the nation’s rich literary heritage and affect future leadership.
Speaking at the February edition of the *Reading/Writers’ Dialogue* organised by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), FCT chapter, in Abuja, Obasanjo highlighted the crucial role of reading in nurturing informed citizens and effective leaders.
The event, themed *”The Writer’s Role in Nation-Building and Africa’s First Presidential Library”*, brought together writers, readers, and thought leaders.
Obasanjo, a prolific author himself, noted that Nigeria has produced literary giants celebrated worldwide, such as Chinua Achebe, who used his craft to elevate Nigerian culture globally.
However, the former president warned that the nation risks losing this legacy if the younger generation continues to avoid serious reading, despite the vast access to information provided by the internet.
“A reader is a leader,” Obasanjo stressed. “A leader must not necessarily be a writer, but a leader must be a reader to be informed and know what to do.
If we want more writers, we must first cultivate readers. Unfortunately, many of today’s youths no longer engage in serious reading, and that’s dangerous for the future.”
He warned that if left unchecked, the decline in reading culture would not only diminish Nigeria’s literary achievements but also produce uninformed and incompetent leaders.
**The Role of Writers in Nation-Building**
Obasanjo praised Nigerian writers for their contributions to nation-building through literature, commending ANA FCT for its efforts to mentor young readers and writers.
The event also provided the former president an opportunity to discuss some of his own works, including *My Command*, *This Animal Called Man*, *Not My Will*, and *Making Africa Work*.
Senator Shehu Sani, a human rights activist and author, also spoke at the event, lauding Nigerian writers for using their creativity to drive positive social change.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by the internet culture, which, while providing easy access to information, has discouraged deeper research and reading habits.
“When you write a book, you become immortal,” Sani said. “That book lives beyond your lifetime, reaching places and people you may never meet.
But today, we see a worrying laziness when it comes to reading, and that’s a challenge we must address.”
**Mentorship and Literary Growth**
Arch. Chukwudi Eze, Chairman of ANA Abuja, reiterated the association’s commitment to engaging young Nigerians through mentorship programmes aimed at promoting reading and writing.
He commended Obasanjo’s participation in the dialogue, describing his presence as a great motivation for aspiring writers and literary enthusiasts.
“Obasanjo is not only a distinguished leader but also a prolific writer who has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s development,” Eze noted.
“Having him share his insights on the role of writers in nation-building is a huge inspiration for the younger generation.”
The event featured a lively panel discussion, spoken-word performances, poetry readings, and award presentations — all focused on the importance of preserving Nigeria’s literary heritage and fostering a culture of reading and writing among the youth.
Obasanjo’s call for a revival of Nigeria’s reading culture serves as a reminder of the importance of literature in shaping informed, thoughtful, and effective citizens.
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