Politics
THE President of the Enugu State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice George Nnamani, has lauded Nigerian writers for their resilience in spite of the societal challenges.
Nnamani made the commendation on Thursday in Enugu during a book party to commemorate the 2026 World Book Day, themed “Go All In on Reading.”
The event, organised by the Enugu State Library Board and the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), featured the unveiling of a new poetry collection, “Unbinding Me Now,” by a renowned poet, James Eze.
The legal luminary noted that writers had crossed a lot of hurdles to cope with the economic situation in the country.
Nnamani however, expressed concern over declining reading culture and moral values among youths, attributing it partly to excessive reliance on mobile technology.
He called on governments at all levels to declare a “state of book emergency” to revive reading habits and intellectual engagement among young Nigerians.
Nnamani lamented what he described as a decline in discipline, respect, and cultural values among the younger generation.
The judge, who is also a writer, commended the state library board and ANA for the gradual revival of reading culture among children and the youth.
In his remarks, the poet, Eze, called for collective action among Nigerians to address the nation’s persistent challenges and build a more sustainable future.
Speaking on his latest work, Eze described the collection as a product of “deep frustration and controlled outrage” over the state of the nation.
He noted that the poems were inspired by his disappointments with Nigeria’s socio-political realities and a strong desire to provoke reflection and action.
“This is a book born out of discontent,” he said. “Our situation demands speech, not silence. We must move beyond platitudes and confront the realities we face as a nation.”
Eze, who is also a journalist, stressed that Nigerians must take responsibility for the country’s condition rather than placing blame solely on leaders.
According to him, meaningful change can only come through collective commitment and active citizenship.
“We are all culpable,” he said. “Leaders emerge from the society. If we must reset this system, it begins with us taking responsibility and working together.”
He further emphasised that nation-building required conscious efforts from citizens who valued their heritage and were committed to preserving it for future generations.
He warned against a growing culture of individualism, noting that no nation could thrive without unity and shared purpose.
Highlighting regional and ethnic tensions, Eze argued that fragmentation would not solve Nigeria’s problems, as the same systemic issues would persist in smaller entities.
This book, he added, addressed these underlying societal challenges and called for introspection.
In her welcome address, Executive Secretary, Enugu State Library Board, Mrs Sylvia Onwubuemeli, highlighted the significance of books in shaping minds and fostering development.
She described the event as a milestone, noting that it was the first major gathering hosted by the board since her appointment in December 2025.
Onwubuemeli emphasised the importance of cultivating reading habits, particularly among youths, stating that books remained essential tools for expanding knowledge and imagination.
She also commended the Enugu State Government for its investments in education, including the construction of Smart Green Schools and the development of e-libraries.
Similarly, Chairperson of ANA, Enugu Chapter, Dr Adaobi Nwoye, praised the collaboration between the association and the library board, describing it as the beginning of a productive partnership aimed at promoting literary culture.
She underscored the need for continuous learning and engagement with literature, even as language and communication evolve among younger generations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event brought together writers, students, and stakeholders in the literary community, reinforcing importance of reading and creative expression in national development.
Highlights of the event included signing of books and presentation of books to the library by ANA. (NAN)
A.I
April 24, 2026
Tags: Justice George Nnamani Mrs Sylvia Onwubuemeli World Book Day