On the occasion of International Literacy Day, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has vowed to champion the cause of literacy in Nigeria through the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS).
Obasanjo made this commitment during a ceremony held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where he was formally invested as the Grand Patron of the organization.
Joining Obasanjo in receiving honours were notable figures such as the Olowu of Owu, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, who was inducted into the Royal Fathers Council of Elders for a Literate Nigeria, and the Oganla of Owu, Hon. Johnson Olu Fatoki, who was appointed National Patron. These appointments, among several others, underline a collective commitment to eradicating illiteracy in Nigeria, signalling a renewed focus on education as a foundation for national development.
In his acceptance speech, Obasanjo expressed gratitude for the recognition and assured attendees of his unwavering support for NOGALSS’ mission. “For me, this is a total commitment,” Obasanjo said. “I thank you for honouring us, particularly here at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. I see your passion and commitment, and it is infectious.” He illustrated his pledge with an anecdote about the difference between partial and total commitment, likening his dedication to that of a pig’s role in providing breakfast—total, unlike a chicken’s, which is only partial.
NOGALSS National President, Comrade Noah Emmanuel, commended Obasanjo’s longstanding contributions to education, both in Nigeria and across Africa. He highlighted Obasanjo’s efforts in forming global partnerships, including collaborations with UNESCO, to advance literacy initiatives. “Your Excellency’s contributions go beyond our borders as you have forged global partnerships to advance education not only in Nigeria but across Africa,” Emmanuel stated. He also announced the launch of the Chief Olusegun Obasanjo Literacy Legacy Fund, a new initiative designed to support NOGALSS’ literacy programs, which will be managed by UNESCO to ensure transparency and accountability.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Morenikeji Akinrinola, Deputy Director of NGOs, emphasized the role of multilingual education in fostering peaceful coexistence. “Nigeria is a nation rich in linguistic diversity, with over 500 languages spoken across various communities,” Akinrinola noted. She stressed that promoting multilingual education not only enhances academic performance but also fosters confidence and a sense of identity among young learners. The Ministry, she said, is committed to aligning its policies with this vision by supporting mother-tongue instruction at the foundational level while encouraging proficiency in other local and international languages.
Guest lecturer, Professor Modupe Adelabu, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, delivered a keynote address on “Promoting Literacy in Multilingual Nigeria for National Unity and Peacebuilding.” She underscored that literacy is not just a tool for education but also a means of fostering unity, preserving cultural heritage, and driving economic growth. “If a child can learn their mother tongue alongside another language, they can trade and communicate anywhere in this country,” Adelabu said, emphasizing the need for effective planning and implementation of literacy programs in a diverse linguistic environment like Nigeria’s.
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