By Prisca Sam-Duru

The need for an improvement in the reading culture of Nigerians was brought to the fore once again during the celebration of  the International Literacy Day held last week at the US Consulate, Lagos.  The September 8th as it is customary, was celebrated as a day to focus attention on the importance of promoting worldwide literacy.

US Public Affairs Officer, Dehab Ghebreab while addressing writers who gathered during the September edition of ReaditLoud, described the day as special “because it is a day celebrated worldwide to promote literacy amongst people”, adding that “the earlier people begin reading, the better.”

According to her, “It is encouraging to see young children in school who are being brought up to imbibe the art of reading but it is regrettable that there is still a huge gap since the number of adults who cannot read and write in the country is still discouraging. “

Dehab noted that it was due to the United States’ commitment towards promoting literacy, that ReaditLoud was initiated in order to emphasise the culture of reading amongst Nigerians.

She advised Nigerians to utilize the opportunity provided by the Consulate’s Library and Resource Centre, where they can borrow or read useful materials, emphasising that this idea impacts positively  not just on the children but also the family as well as the nation.

“I expect that Nigeria would seize the mood of the celebration to renew their efforts towards promoting literacy and demonstrating the country’s commitment towards providing education for all.”, she stated.

During the session, about 8 poems which include “Home Call” by Iquo Diana Eke, “The Art, Rhythm and Drama of Loving” written by Stephen Ipalibo-Lawson, “I am Looking for a Woman” by the same poet,  “The Fire Next Time” by Chuma Onwudiwe and  “Sunrise” by Adejobi Opeoluwa.

Iquo Eke one of the Poets that made the list of the 11 Poets shortlisted for the Nigeria Prize for Literature as usual, took the audience on a trip to her native land filled with reminiscences of childhood experiences an exercise with so much praises for her root.