The Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria, Chinwe Veronica, has warned that excessive reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in learning could undermine individuals’ writing skills.
Veronica made the disclosure on Tuesday at the 9th Annual Conference for National Librarians, State Librarians, and Chairmen of State Public Library Boards, organised in collaboration with the Katsina State Government.
“The conference provides a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on reforms that would reposition libraries to meet global best practices,” Veronica said. She stressed the need to balance technology with traditional learning systems.
Veronica urged Nigerians, particularly the youths, to revive the reading culture in the country by patronising libraries. She commended Governor Dikko Radda for his passion and investment in education and libraries in the state, noting that resolutions from the conference would benefit future generations.
Represented by the Commissioner for Higher, Vocational and Technical Education, Muhammad Musa, Governor Radda reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalising the education sector and state-owned libraries.
“The conference theme aligns with our vision to modernise public libraries and promote strong reading culture among the youths,” Radda said. “Through such conferences, stakeholders will be able to restore the lost glory of libraries and instill reading culture in the younger generation, which remains a foundation for academic excellence.”
Radda commended the Nigerian Library Association for its decision to review its strategic plan, describing it as a timely effort to reposition public libraries and improve access to education services nationwide.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Library Association, Dr. Lawal Umar, called for urgent action to revive library services across the country.
He expressed concern that public libraries were non-existent in most local government areas, while those in other areas were in dire need of overhauling.
“Relevant authorities must revamp the public libraries, as they remain the nation’s hub for information, creativity, and social change,” Umar said.
The Chairman of the conference and State Chief Judge, Justice Musa Danladi, described the event as a milestone towards revitalising public libraries.
He called on elites and philanthropists to contribute reading materials that reflect Nigeria’s cultural heritage and values to attract more readers.