Reading has long been regarded as a fundamental tool for personal and societal development, yet in contemporary Nigeria, the love for reading appears to be waning. “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free,” said Frederick Douglass, underscoring the transformative power of reading. However, in Nigeria today, the enthusiasm for reading seems to have diminished significantly, raising concerns about its long-term impact on intellectual growth and national development.
In the past, Nigeria boasted a vibrant reading culture, with literature playing a pivotal role in shaping societal norms and intellectual discourse. The works of Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Cyprian Ekwensi were household staples, fostering a deep appreciation for literature. “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies,” wrote George R.R. Martin, yet it seems fewer Nigerians are willing to embark on this literary journey today. This decline is evident in the dwindling number of book clubs, reduced patronage of libraries, and the general disinterest in extensive reading outside academic requirements.

Progressively. the advent of digital technology has significantly altered reading habits. With the rise of social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), the average Nigerian now spends more time consuming bite-sized content rather than engaging in deep, reflective reading. “We become what we behold. We shape our tools, and then our tools shape us,” observed Marshall McLuhan. This shift towards visual and ephemeral content has contributed to the decline of traditional reading habits, as people prefer quick entertainment over long-form text.
Education systems also bear responsibility for the declining culture. Nigerian schools often prioritise rote memorisation over critical thinking, leading students to see reading as a burdensome requirement rather than an enjoyable and enlightening activity. “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire,” noted W.B. Yeats. However, without a system that encourages independent thought and curiosity, students merely skim through materials to pass exams rather than develop a genuine love for books.

Again, economic challenges further exacerbate the problem. With Nigeria’s inflation rate exceeding 28% as of late 2024, books have become an unaffordable luxury for many. “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope,” said Kofi Annan, but when basic survival is the priority, investing in books is not feasible for the average Nigerian household. Public libraries, once a refuge for book lovers, are underfunded and in a state of disrepair, reducing access to reading materials.
Parental influence plays a crucial role in shaping children’s reading habits. In many Nigerian homes, parents do not actively encourage reading beyond schoolwork, leaving children without role models for literary engagement. “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents,” stated Emilie Buchwald, yet in a society where parents are often preoccupied with work or struggling with economic pressures, little time is devoted to fostering a reading culture at home.

In furtherance, the publishing industry in Nigeria also faces challenges that deter the growth of reading culture. High production costs, piracy, and limited distribution networks have made books expensive and inaccessible. “A book is a dream that you hold in your hands,” said Neil Gaiman, but for many Nigerians, that dream remains elusive due to financial and logistical constraints. Without government intervention to support local publishing, authors struggle to reach a wider audience, and books remain out of reach for those who need them most.
Despite these challenges, there are efforts to revive Nigeria’s reading culture. Literary festivals such as the Ake Arts and Book Festival and the Lagos Book and Arts Festival have gained traction, providing platforms for authors and readers to engage. “To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark,” wrote Victor Hugo. These festivals serve as sparks of hope, igniting interest in literature, especially among the younger generation.

The rise of digital books and audiobooks has also presented an alternative means of accessing literature. With smartphones becoming more affordable, platforms like OkadaBooks and Bambooks have emerged, making literature more accessible. “This art and/or act gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are,” said Mason Cooley. These digital platforms provide an opportunity to rekindle the love for reading in a way that aligns with contemporary consumption habits.
Ultimately, the responsibility for reviving Nigeria’s reading culture lies with multiple stakeholders, including the government, educators, parents, and individuals. “The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read,” remarked Mark Twain. If Nigeria is to foster a knowledgeable and informed society, deliberate efforts must be made to promote reading across all demographics. This includes investing in libraries, reforming educational curricula to encourage critical thinking, and leveraging technology to make books more accessible.

Although the love for reading in Nigeria has declined, it is not beyond redemption. With strategic interventions and a renewed appreciation for the power of books, a revival is possible. “A room without books is like a body without a soul,” said Marcus Tullius Cicero. For Nigeria to flourish intellectually and culturally, it must prioritise reading, ensuring that literature remains a vital part of its national identity.
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