The Lit Media and Arts Hub Advocates for Mental Health Awareness in Schools

 

THE LIT MEDIA AND ARTS HUB ADVOCATES FOR MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS IN SCHOOLS

 

As part of its ongoing advocacy campaign to promote mental health awareness, The Lit Media and Arts Hub visited Juvenile Palace Academy in the Ojoo area of the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday, January 17, 2025. The impactful program, held in the school's hall, commenced at 12:00 PM and lasted for about an hour, addressing crucial topics on mental health and demystifying prevalent myths and misconceptions.

Mrs. Oluwasola Rauf, a seasoned social advocate, highlighted the importance of integrating school counselors into educational institutions. Responding to a question posed by the school principal on how schools can advance mental health advocacy, Mrs. Rauf emphasized that counselors play a critical role in providing emotional support and guidance to students who may be dealing with various challenges.

The convener of the Lit Media and Arts Hub, Mr. Akinola Sesan, also graced the occasion. A renowned poet, mental health advocate, and performing playwright, Mr. Sesan emphasized the significance of literature in fostering mental health awareness. He presented the school with copies of his debut poetry collection, The Grief of Anibala, a groundbreaking contribution to mental health literature. He also donated writing materials, additional mental health literature, and Educare Trust's Monthly Breast Exam (MBE) posters, further enriching the students' learning environment.

Mr. Sesan commended Educare Trust, a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to societal development, for sponsoring and supporting the campaign. He expressed gratitude for their continuous contributions to advancing mental health education in Nigerian schools and communities.

During the event, students and teachers actively participated in discussions on mental health, sharing personal experiences and exploring ways to foster a supportive environment within the school. The program shed light on the critical need to address stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health challenges among young people.

The school principal expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. He acknowledged that the resources provided by The Lit Media and Arts Hub would not only benefit the students but also equip teachers with valuable tools to support their students’ emotional well-being.

Staff members also commended the Hub for its innovative approach to combining literature, advocacy, and community engagement in raising awareness about mental health. They pledged their commitment to implementing some of the insights gained during the session to improve the school's overall mental health culture.

The students were particularly inspired by Mr. Sesan's personal stories and the excerpts he shared from The Grief of Anibala. Many expressed interest in reading the book and learning more about mental health through literature and other educational materials provided during the program.

As the session drew to a close, the school management thanked The Lit Media and Arts Hub for its thoughtful contributions to the students’ development. They expressed their hope that more schools across the state would benefit from such impactful advocacy campaigns.

The Lit Media and Arts Hub reaffirmed its dedication to promoting mental health awareness and pledged to extend its reach to more schools and communities in the future, ensuring that young people have access to the resources and support they need to thrive emotionally and academically.

 

OCF Calls for Library Upgrades During Zonal Library Visit

 

OCF CALLS FOR LIBRARY UPGRADES DURING ZONAL LIBRARY VISIT

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Ogbomoso Community Foundation (OCF), led by its Leader, Major General Oladayo Popoola (rtd.), embarked on a significant visit to the Oyo State Library Board’s Zonal Library at Sunsun, Ogbomoso South Local Government, on Friday, December 20, 2024. The visit aimed to assess the current state of the library facilities, explore opportunities for enhancement, and strengthen support for the library’s role in the community.

Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly received by the Director of Public Library Services, Alhaja Sekinat Akanbi, who represented the Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, Hon. Yemi Taiwo. During the visit, the library's operations and its services to the local community were highlighted through a detailed presentation.

In his remarks, Major General Oladayo Popoola (rtd.) reiterated the Foundation's commitment to improving educational resources in Ogbomoso. He emphasized that libraries are crucial pillars of community development, serving as hubs of knowledge, learning, and empowerment. "Our goal is to ensure that libraries in Ogbomoso are equipped to inspire and educate the next generation," he stated.

Prof. Segun Ajiboye, another prominent member of the Foundation, encouraged the Zonal Librarian, Mrs. Ayano Kehinde, to create promotional materials to increase community awareness about the library’s resources. He stressed the need for the library to reach a wider audience, particularly nearby institutions and schools, to ensure maximum utilization of the available resources.

Dr. Saka Balogun proposed including the library's enhancement on the agenda of the Foundation’s next meeting. He announced plans for a fundraising initiative dedicated to addressing the library’s pressing needs, emphasizing that collaborative efforts could make a substantial difference.

During the tour of the library, the OCF delegation viewed a collection of books recently donated by Book Aid International, London. The materials, which span diverse disciplines, were highly appreciated by the visiting team, who commended the library’s efforts in providing resources that cater to varied interests and educational needs.

The visit reinforced the Foundation’s recognition of local libraries as vital instruments of community growth and education. By strengthening its partnership with the Oyo State Library Board, the OCF aims to enhance access to information and tools essential for learning and personal development among Ogbomoso residents.

The delegation also included notable figures such as Engr. Abu Salami, Dr. Tayo Alayande, Prof. Funmi Adelowo, Hon. Chief Mrs. Bimpe Martins, Prof. J.A. Aderinto, Dr. Adebayo Busari, and Elder A.A. Ladiran. Their presence underscored the significance of the visit and the collective commitment to library advocacy.

Media representatives, including Mr. Aderemi Akanmu of BCOS and Mr. Lanre Badmus of Parrot FM, accompanied the delegation to document the event. Their coverage ensures that the Foundation’s message reaches a broader audience, inspiring more stakeholders to join the cause of library enhancement in Ogbomoso.

The Ogbomoso Community Foundation’s visit marks a pivotal step in fostering a culture of reading and learning in the community, with hopes of inspiring further action to elevate the library's impact on education and literacy.

 

 

 

Ibadan Book Club Hails Oyo State Library Board for Ongoing Support and Growth

 IBADAN BOOK CLUB APPLAUDS OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT

For over four years, the Ibadan Book Club has enjoyed the privilege of using the facilities of the Oyo State Library Board for its monthly literary readings and other literary engagements. This long-standing collaboration has proven invaluable in the Club’s mission to foster a vibrant reading culture in Oyo State. The partnership has contributed significantly to the literary landscape, bringing together renowned writers, publishers, and stakeholders in the book industry.

In a press statement issued by the founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Oyo State Library Board for providing a conducive space for the Club's activities. The statement lauded the board's continued support, which has enabled the Club to host numerous workshops, seminars, and conferences that have engaged both budding and established writers. These events have further strengthened the reading culture in the state and enriched the local literary scene.

"The Oyo State Library Board has been an indispensable partner in the growth of the Ibadan Book Club, and through this collaboration, we have been able to create meaningful spaces for writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts to connect and grow," said Wole Adedoyin. He emphasized the importance of such partnerships in promoting education and intellectual discourse.

The Club commended the Oyo State Government under the political administration of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde for its visionary leadership, which recently saw the construction of a state-of-the-art shopping complex outside the library. The development marks a significant leap toward optimizing the use of government resources. However, the ongoing construction has not disrupted any part of the library, ensuring that its activities continue to run smoothly.

"The transformation of the library's surrounding environment into a modern shopping complex is a welcome development. It not only enhances the aesthetic value of the area but also optimizes the available resources, making the library a more integral part of the community," said Adedoyin. He noted that the ongoing construction has been handled with care, ensuring that it does not interfere with the library’s operations or its valuable services to the public.

The Club also applauded the inclusion of a 200-seater Computer-Based Test (CBT) facility in the ongoing development project. The CBT center is being built as part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with the developer, and it is intended to serve the educational needs of the state. This facility will provide students and other residents of Oyo State with the opportunity to access computer-based tests and other educational services, thus contributing to the state's educational advancement.

"The inclusion of the CBT center within the library complex is a forward-thinking initiative. It will serve as a valuable resource for students and job seekers alike, providing them with a reliable space to take important exams and certifications," Adedoyin noted. This addition will complement the library’s existing services, further cementing the Oyo State Library Board’s role as a hub of learning and development.

The Club commended Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, for his leadership and for prioritizing the growth and development of the state's library services. His contributions to the success of the board have been crucial, and his vision continues to shape the future of libraries in Oyo State.

As the Ibadan Book Club continues to thrive with the support of the Oyo State Library Board, it remains committed to expanding its impact on the literary community. Through monthly readings, workshops, and seminars, the Club aims to continue its work in shaping the intellectual landscape of Oyo State. With the ongoing development of the library and its facilities, the future looks bright for the literary community and the residents of Oyo State.

Ibadan Book Club Praises Gov. Makinde, Hon. Taiwo for Revitalizing Oyo Library Board

IBADAN BOOK CLUB COMMENDS GOV. SEYI MAKINDE, HON. YEMI TAIWO ON REVITALIZATION OF OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD

The Ibadan Book Club, along with its Executive Council and members, has expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of the Oyo State Governor, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, in enhancing the operations and infrastructure of the Oyo State Library Board. This commendation follows significant developments aimed at optimizing the utilization of government assets and fostering a reading culture in the state.

This was stated in a press release issued by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

The club particularly lauded the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art shopping complex outside the premises of the library. This innovative project, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, signifies a forward-thinking approach to asset management while ensuring that the library remains fully operational and accessible to the public. Contrary to certain politically charged narratives, the ongoing construction has not disrupted library activities or affected its functionality.

The shopping complex was constructed on a plot of land facing the main road along the bustling Dugbe-Mokola axis. It is entirely separate from the existing library structure and does not impact it in any way. The current development has not only improved the aesthetics of the area but also aligns with Governor Makinde's vision of maximizing the potential of public spaces. The library continues to operate seamlessly, welcoming patrons from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, under the diligent management of its staff and leadership.

As part of the PPP agreement, the developer is committed to establishing a 200-seater Computer-Based Test (CBT) facility within the library board premises. This facility will serve as a modern resource center for examinations and digital literacy programs, further elevating the library's status as a hub for educational advancement in Oyo State.

The Ibadan Book Club has been a consistent partner in promoting a vibrant reading culture through its monthly gatherings held at the library for over four years. These meetings bring together authors, publishers, and literary stakeholders to discuss books and strategies for enhancing literary engagement in the state. The club's members have witnessed firsthand the active and efficient operations of the library, which has become a beacon for knowledge seekers.

The Club also extended its gratitude to the Management and Staff of the Library, for their unwavering dedication and proactive leadership. Their efforts have ensured the library remains a welcoming and resourceful space for the state.

In addition, the club commended Hon. Yemi Taiwo, the Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, for his visionary guidance and commitment to the library's progress. His role has been pivotal in facilitating projects and programs that have reinvigorated the board's mission.

Governor Seyi Makinde's administration has demonstrated a keen interest in leveraging education and infrastructure development to foster growth and progress. The library board's improvements are a testimony to this commitment, providing a platform for lifelong learning and skill acquisition.

The Ibadan Book Club also used the opportunity to clarify misinformation surrounding the library's status. Contrary to politically motivated claims, the library is fully operational and increasingly gaining patronage from a diverse audience. The shopping complex project is a well-thought-out initiative that complements the library's goals rather than undermining them.

The club emphasized the importance of depoliticizing educational and cultural institutions, urging all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at promoting literacy and knowledge. The collaboration between the government, private sector, and community groups like the Ibadan Book Club exemplifies how shared goals can lead to meaningful development.

Furthermore, the Ibadan Book Club reiterated its commitment to fostering a robust reading culture through its programs and partnerships. By hosting events that bring together literary enthusiasts and professionals, the club continues to contribute to the intellectual and cultural enrichment of Oyo State.

The proposed 200-seater CBT facility is anticipated to attract more users to the library, providing essential resources for students, job seekers, and researchers. It represents a significant milestone in the library's journey toward modernization and expanded service delivery.

The club called on individuals and organizations to leverage the resources and opportunities available at the library. It also encouraged other states to emulate the strides being made in Oyo State under Governor Makinde's leadership.

As the Oyo State Library Board evolves into a model institution, the Ibadan Book Club affirmed its support for the ongoing projects and pledged to continue its advocacy for literature, education, and cultural development.

This renewed partnership between the government, literary communities, and private entities stressed the transformative power of collaboration in achieving societal progress. The Ibadan Book Club looks forward to further milestones as the library board sets a benchmark for excellence in Nigeria's educational landscape.

2024 Annual Conference: Nigerian Publishers Association Delves into AI's Role in Modern Publishing

 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE: NIGERIAN PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION DELVES INTO AI'S ROLE IN MODERN PUBLISHING

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) held its 2024 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. The event, which marked the fourth in the series under the leadership of Sir (Chief) Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., FPIN, FICMC, brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s publishing industry and other distinguished guests.

Delivering the welcome address, Chief Anioke highlighted the progress made by the association since his administration's inauguration on December 4, 2020. Reflecting on previous conferences, he described them as milestones in addressing the challenges of the publishing sector. “Each conference theme was chosen to tackle pressing industry concerns,” he noted, referencing themes from past years that tackled economic sustainability, the impact of digital transformation, and the revitalization of local paper production.

For 2024, the conference theme, “Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright,” was a timely choice. Chief Anioke emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in publishing while also acknowledging the challenges it poses. He encouraged participants to engage actively in discussions about adopting AI technology to enhance content creation, improve delivery systems, and protect copyright.

The keynote speaker, Dr. John Asein, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), was commended for his expertise in intellectual property and anti-piracy. Chief Anioke expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Asein’s insights, describing him as a “legal luminary and intellectual property icon.” Supporting the discussions were a panel of experts, including Mr. David Oluwagbami, Dr. (Mrs.) Chika Yinka-Banjo, and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, who explored the multifaceted implications of AI in the publishing sector.

The conference was chaired by Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, a renowned chartered accountant and past president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). The Special Guest of Honour, Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was lauded for his contributions to education in the state, particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children and promoting quality learning.

During his address, Chief Anioke reiterated the association's longstanding calls for federal government intervention in critical areas affecting the industry. These include involving publishers in curriculum reforms, reviving moribund paper mills, and fostering policies that encourage the production of books in indigenous languages. “The current practice of excluding publishers from curriculum development is unacceptable and amounts to intellectual sabotage,” he asserted.

Chief Anioke also appealed for greater private-sector investment in paper production to reduce reliance on imports, thereby addressing foreign exchange pressures and capital flight. He called on the government to work with the publishing sector to ensure sustainable practices and promote local content production.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the association's achievements, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat after 55 years. Chief Anioke credited the foresight of his predecessors, particularly the last executive council led by Gbadega Adadepo, for securing the land that made the project possible.

As NPA approaches its 60th anniversary next year, Chief Anioke expressed profound gratitude to the association's founding fathers, past presidents, and members for their unwavering commitment. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of partners such as the African Publishers Network (APNET) and the International Publishers Association (IPA) in amplifying Nigeria's voice in global publishing.

The association extended special thanks to corporate sponsors, including Clean Life Nigeria Ltd., Nixin Paper Mills and Everest Pulp and Paper Ltd., for their financial support. Chief Anioke also praised the 2024 AGM Planning Committee, led by Vice President Alhaji Dauda Lukman, for organizing a successful event.

The conference concluded with a resounding appreciation for educators, students, and members of the press, whose participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry to national development. Chief Anioke reaffirmed NPA’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the sector, emphasizing collaboration as the key to future success.

“Long live the NPA! Long live Lagos State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” he proclaimed as he brought his address to a close, setting an optimistic tone for the association’s future endeavors.