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The Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), National Library of Nigeria (NLN) and Nigeria Conservative Foundation (NCF) partnered to host the International Literacy Day 2026 with the theme: “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.”
The celebration attracted NLN and NCF officials, as well as an author, primary and secondary school pupils with their teachers also in attendance.
In her speech, Chairperson of ZODML, Mrs. Ifeoma Esiri, said the celebration reminds the gathering that literacy is not simply about reading words on a page, “literacy helps us understand people, appreciate our environment and prepare ourselves for a better future.”
According to her, the pupils listened to an author, explored stories, asked questions, participated in competitions and learned about recycling and caring for the planet.
Esiri, who was represented by a BOT member, Dr. Arinze Agbim, advised the students to read and expand their mind, to create because ideas matter and protect the planet because they are part of its future.
She added:” I encourage every child to make a personal commitment to read more, learn more and do something positive for the environment. Our students, you are the future, and we believe in your ability to make a difference.”
The Chief Executive Officer of ZODML, Mrs. Ego Mbagwu, said the theme will remind the pupils that literacy is much more than knowing how to read and write.
“Literacy gives us the ability to understand the world around us, ask questions, find information, make good decisions and create solutions.
‘It helps us understand people. It can help us understand the challenges facing our planet. And it can give us the knowledge and skills we need to create better opportunities for ourselves and our communities.
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“Today, we are therefore bringing reading together with creativity, environmental awareness and practical learning.”
Mbagwu encouraged the students to make reading a daily habit, ask questions, explore the library and use what they learned to make a positive difference.
In her address, the Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Lagos, Mrs. Obianuju Onuorah, disclosed that ZODML has made an impact by taking books to children, equipping community libraries, and keeping the flame of reading burning.
She explained that every September 8, UNESCO reminds the world that literacy is not a privilege; but a human rights and is the foundation upon which other Sustainable Development Goals are built.
Her words: “Behind every literate child is a person who can think, ask questions, and also can choose. Literacy is what gives a child from Makoko the same voice as a child from Ikoyi. When a child learns to read, we are not just teaching ABC, we are giving that child an identity and a future.
“A child who reads about the environment will not throw waste in the drainage. A young person who reads about the climate will plant a tree and innovate solutions. Literacy makes us better custodians of our planet.”
The deputy director said the Lagos branch will continue to take library services beyond its building in Yaba into schools and communities through book donations for school libraries, ensuring that every book published in the state is preserved for generations through legal deposit and to continue to build partnerships with the likes of ZODML.
Highlights of the celebration including reading of a book by a guest author, Mr. Ayo Oyeku, quiz on the environment, tour of Green Library and presentation of books to the invited eight schools.
