Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Ibadan Book Club Applauds Gov. Makinde, Hon. Taiwo for Revitalizing Oyo State Library Board

 IBADAN BOOK CLUB COMMENDS GOV. SEYI MAKINDE, HON. YEMI TAIWO ON REVITALIZATION OF OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD



The Ibadan Book Club, along with its Executive Council and members, has expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of the Oyo State Governor, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, in enhancing the operations and infrastructure of the Oyo State Library Board. This commendation follows significant developments aimed at optimizing the utilization of government assets and fostering a reading culture in the state.

This was stated in a press release issued by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

The club particularly lauded the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art shopping complex outside the premises of the library. This innovative project, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, signifies a forward-thinking approach to asset management while ensuring that the library remains fully operational and accessible to the public. Contrary to certain politically charged narratives, the ongoing construction has not disrupted library activities or affected its functionality.

The shopping complex was constructed on a plot of land facing the main road along the bustling Dugbe-Mokola axis. It is entirely separate from the existing library structure and does not impact it in any way. The current development has not only improved the aesthetics of the area but also aligns with Governor Makinde's vision of maximizing the potential of public spaces. The library continues to operate seamlessly, welcoming patrons from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, under the diligent management of its staff and leadership.

As part of the PPP agreement, the developer is committed to establishing a 200-seater Computer-Based Test (CBT) facility within the library board premises. This facility will serve as a modern resource center for examinations and digital literacy programs, further elevating the library's status as a hub for educational advancement in Oyo State.

The Ibadan Book Club has been a consistent partner in promoting a vibrant reading culture through its monthly gatherings held at the library for over four years. These meetings bring together authors, publishers, and literary stakeholders to discuss books and strategies for enhancing literary engagement in the state. The club's members have witnessed firsthand the active and efficient operations of the library, which has become a beacon for knowledge seekers.

The Club also extended its gratitude to the Management and Staff of the Library, for their unwavering dedication and proactive leadership. Their efforts have ensured the library remains a welcoming and resourceful space for the state.

In addition, the club commended Hon. Yemi Taiwo, the Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, for his visionary guidance and commitment to the library's progress. His role has been pivotal in facilitating projects and programs that have reinvigorated the board's mission.

Governor Seyi Makinde's administration has demonstrated a keen interest in leveraging education and infrastructure development to foster growth and progress. The library board's improvements are a testimony to this commitment, providing a platform for lifelong learning and skill acquisition.

The Ibadan Book Club also used the opportunity to clarify misinformation surrounding the library's status. Contrary to politically motivated claims, the library is fully operational and increasingly gaining patronage from a diverse audience. The shopping complex project is a well-thought-out initiative that complements the library's goals rather than undermining them.

The club emphasized the importance of depoliticizing educational and cultural institutions, urging all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at promoting literacy and knowledge. The collaboration between the government, private sector, and community groups like the Ibadan Book Club exemplifies how shared goals can lead to meaningful development.

Furthermore, the Ibadan Book Club reiterated its commitment to fostering a robust reading culture through its programs and partnerships. By hosting events that bring together literary enthusiasts and professionals, the club continues to contribute to the intellectual and cultural enrichment of Oyo State.

The proposed 200-seater CBT facility is anticipated to attract more users to the library, providing essential resources for students, job seekers, and researchers. It represents a significant milestone in the library's journey toward modernization and expanded service delivery.

The club called on individuals and organizations to leverage the resources and opportunities available at the library. It also encouraged other states to emulate the strides being made in Oyo State under Governor Makinde's leadership.

As the Oyo State Library Board evolves into a model institution, the Ibadan Book Club affirmed its support for the ongoing projects and pledged to continue its advocacy for literature, education, and cultural development.

This renewed partnership between the government, literary communities, and private entities stressed the transformative power of collaboration in achieving societal progress. The Ibadan Book Club looks forward to further milestones as the library board sets a benchmark for excellence in Nigeria's educational landscape.


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