The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to embrace literacy as a foundation for building national identity, strengthening social cohesion, and tackling poverty.
Speaking on the occasion of the 2025 World Literacy Day, Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said literacy is more than the ability to read and write, stressing that it remains a gateway to knowledge, innovation, and active participation in democracy.
He noted that the celebration provides Nigerians with an opportunity to reflect on the life-changing impact of literacy in reducing poverty, encouraging lifelong learning, and promoting an inclusive society.
Issa-Onilu called on parents, teachers, policymakers, community leaders, and civil society to see literacy promotion as a shared responsibility, urging greater support for public and community libraries as knowledge centres for young and old.
He also emphasised the need to embrace digital literacy in preparing for the challenges of the 21st-century knowledge economy, while advocating targeted interventions for women, girls, and other vulnerable groups facing barriers to education.
“The Agency will continue to mobilise Nigerians and partner with stakeholders to drive literacy as a tool for unity, sustainable growth, and national pride,” the NOA boss assured.
According to him, “A literate Nigeria is a stronger Nigeria. Together, we must make reading and learning part of our culture.”
