National Library seeks funding to preserve Nigeria’s heritage

The National Library of Nigeria is seeking sustainable funding to preserve the country's documentary heritage, warning that inadequate funding could result in the loss of valuable historical records and knowledge. Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi, the National Librarian and CEO, announced the launch of the National Library of Nigeria Endowment Foundation (NLNEF) to mobilize resources and strengthen the library's capacity to preserve Nigeria's intellectual heritage.

Currently, the library operates 35 branches nationwide, requiring investment in infrastructure, electricity, and information technology. The library's headquarters, under construction in Abuja, also needs adequate resources for completion and maintenance. Anunobi emphasized that NLNEF aims to prevent future generations from inheriting a weakened library due to neglect but rather a strengthened one through collective ownership and sustained investment.

Alhaji Ahmadu Dantata, CEO of Synergy Infrastructure Development and Investment Limited, pledged N25 million annually to the foundation for the duration of his life, with additional pledges of N100 million each from three others. Dantata's company is prepared to provide a data center, free bandwidth, and energy solutions to support the library.

Prof. Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, President of the African University of Science and Technology, highlighted the importance of libraries in research, innovation, and technological development, urging various stakeholders to invest in modern libraries equipped with digital resources and digitized archives.