Ukrainian govt opens bookshelf at Bingham varsity

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has officially opened a Ukrainian Bookshelf at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, presenting the institution with a curated collection of books on Ukraine’s history, culture, identity and the current realities of the ongoing war.

The Ukrainian Embassy in Nigeria, in a statement, said the initiative was part of the global project launched by the First Lady of Ukraine, Mrs Olena Zelenska, aimed at making Ukrainian literature accessible in libraries and universities across the world.

During the ceremony, the Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy, especially in times of war, and emphasised the long-standing relationship between Ukraine and the academic community in Nigeria.

“It is a great honour for Ukraine to be represented here at Bingham University. For many years, hundreds of Nigerian students studied in Ukraine and many of them proudly call Ukraine their second home. They carry warm memories of our hospitality, our values and our culture,” Kholostenko said.

The Ukrainian envoy further said the opening of the bookshelf was both a cultural event and a symbolic gesture.

Referring to the extensive damage inflicted on Ukrainian cultural institutions by Russia’s ongoing aggression, the envoy said: “Books carry more than words. They carry identity, memory, humour, pain and dreams. They preserve what missiles and bombs cannot destroy.”

He also expressed gratitude to the First Lady for initiating the project, as well as to the leadership of Bingham University for their support and openness to cooperation.

“Your decision to host the Ukrainian Bookshelf is a gesture of friendship between our nations and a reflection of the global vision of your university,” he added.

The collection presented to the university included books on key events of Ukrainian history, cultural heritage, national minorities, regional museums and festivals, and analytical works explaining the origins and consequences of the Russian war against Ukraine.

The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria stated that the Ukrainian Bookshelf has become part of the university’s library resources and is expected to serve as a bridge of knowledge and mutual understanding between Nigerian students and the people of Ukraine.

“The initiative demonstrates that even in the most challenging times, nations can come together through culture, education and shared values,” the Embassy said.