Oyo Library Board Promotes Literacy in Ogbomoso Schools

OYO LIBRARY BOARD PROMOTES LITERACY IN OGBOMOSO SCHOOLS

The Oyo State Library Board has reaffirmed its commitment to educational excellence and youth development through its Readership Promotion Campaign Programme themed “Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success.” The impactful event was held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Anglican Grammar School, Apake, Ogbomoso, drawing students, educators, and community leaders from across the Ogbomoso zone.

The event commenced with a heartfelt and motivational address by Mr. S.O. Awotona, the State Librarian of the Oyo State Library Board. In his keynote remarks, he emphasized the indispensable role of reading and mental discipline in shaping successful students. He described the library as a “sacred space of inspiration and a launchpad for academic triumph,” urging students to make reading a daily habit and to view learning as a lifelong journey of discovery and growth.

Mr. Awotona further inspired the students by referencing Bayo Ododo’s song “Ododo ni wa lowo yin,” underscoring the virtues of integrity, focus, and purpose in achieving success. To further encourage continuous learning, he presented each student with a copy of his motivational book, “My Library, My Success,” a gesture that was met with great enthusiasm and appreciation from the audience.

In his conclusion, Mr. Awotona challenged students to harness the transformative power of reading, reminding them that the mind is the most powerful tool for success. His message of hope and determination resonated deeply, igniting a renewed commitment to academic diligence among the participants.

 

The highlight of the campaign was a thought-provoking lecture delivered by Mr. Ogunlana, who spoke extensively on “Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success.” He defined the mind as the control center of human reasoning and creativity, stressing that a healthy and disciplined mind is the foundation of wise decision-making and progress. Describing the mind as a battleground between conflicting emotions and logic, he urged students to develop self-control, empathy, courage, and positivity as keys to achieving greatness.

Representing the Honorable Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Dr. Oyedokun, the Permanent Secretary and Inspector-General of Education for Ogbomoso Zone 1, reflected on the evolving importance of libraries in the digital age. Using the acronym “LIBRARY”—Learning, Information, Books, Research, Assistance, Reading, and Yourself—he illustrated how libraries serve as powerful tools for self-development, lifelong learning, and civic engagement.

 

In his goodwill message, Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for literacy and education under the leadership of Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde. He highlighted that the Ogbomoso event marked the final leg of a statewide readership campaign designed to reignite the culture of reading and academic excellence among students in Oyo State.

Distinguished guests, including Dr. A. A. Arinola, Head of Department, Library and Information Science, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), and Professor G. O. Adigun, University Librarian, Federal University of Agriculture, Okeho, also delivered goodwill messages. They emphasized the enduring value of reading as a habit that sharpens intellect, nurtures creativity, and fuels lifelong achievement.

The event featured lively and educational activities, including book tasting sessions, spelling challenges, and the inauguration of Student Library Ambassadors. These ambassadors were presented with appointment letters to serve as reading advocates within their schools. Ogbomoso Baptist High School emerged as the overall winner of both the Book Tasting and Spelling Challenge competitions, while Owode Community Grammar School and Laogun Adeoye Memorial School also earned notable recognition for their impressive performances. Twenty schools in total participated, each receiving donated books to strengthen their school libraries.

 

The 2025 Readership Promotion Campaign not only celebrated the power of reading but also rekindled a collective passion for knowledge among Oyo State students. By connecting literacy with leadership and academic achievement, the Oyo State Library Board successfully demonstrated that a sound mind built through reading remains the strongest foundation for both personal growth and societal progress.

 

Oyo State Bids Farewell to Library Icon, Mrs. Sadia Akinabi

OYO STATE BIDS FAREWELL TO LIBRARY ICON, MRS. SADIA AKINABI

A jubilant and emotionally charged retirement ceremony was held on October 9, 2025, in honour of the distinguished Mrs. Sadia Omolara Akinabi, who has gracefully stepped down from her illustrious career at the Oyo State Library Board. The event, hosted at the Library headquarters, was a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment have profoundly transformed the library landscape of Oyo State.

The atmosphere was electric with pride, admiration, and gratitude as an array of notable dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, the State Librarian, management staff, colleagues, family members, and friends gathered in unison to celebrate her remarkable journey. Each attendee came with stories, blessings, and best wishes for her next chapter, exemplifying the deep respect and affection she commands.

The celebration ignited with an inspiring address by Mr. Awotona Samuel, the State Librarian. His words poured forth with genuine admiration, highlighting Mrs. Akinabi’s unwavering professionalism, visionary leadership, and passionate drive that propelled the library services to new heights. His heartfelt speech was a testament to her extraordinary contributions, acknowledging her as a catalyst for positive change and a source of inspiration for all.

Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, added his voice to the chorus of praise, celebrating Mrs. Akinabi’s exemplary service, her pivotal role in revolutionizing the library’s infrastructure, and her enduring influence on staff and library users alike. His remarks underscored her legacy as a trailblazer, whose impact will resonate for generations, inspiring continued excellence and innovation.

The spiritual dimension of the event was profound, as Pastor O.O. Akintunde offered powerful words of exhortation, blessing Mrs. Akinabi’s new chapter. This was followed by heartfelt prayers led by Pastor Babalola, who sought divine guidance and grace for the retiree, her family, the Library Board, and the Oyo State Government.

The air was thick with touching stories and warm reflections from management and staff, painting a vivid portrait of a woman whose humility, kindness, and unwavering dedication have made her more than a library officer—she has been a pillar of knowledge, an embodiment of community service, and a source of inspiration. Family members and friends seized the moment to honor her extraordinary achievements, expressing pride and admiration for her exemplary life. A special poem titled “A Tribute to a Woman of Honour” was read by Mrs. Adegbola, the Director for Finance and Accounts, adding an artistic touch to the celebration.

In recognition of her decades of dedicated service, Mrs. Akinabi was presented with meaningful tokens of appreciation—carefully chosen gifts symbolizing gratitude, respect, and admiration for her invaluable contributions to the growth of library services in Oyo State.

In her heartfelt address, Mrs. Akinabi expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His guidance and blessings throughout her career. She extended her sincere thanks to the Chairman, the State Librarian, and everyone present for their support and encouragement. Her words reflected humility, joy, and hope for continued success in the civil service, urging everyone to end their careers and service endeavors on a positive note.

The ceremony culminated in a warm reception, where attendees shared cherished memories, exchanged heartfelt words, and extended their best wishes to Mrs. Sadia Omolara Akinabi. Her journey may have reached a new milestone, but her legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration will forever remain etched in the hearts of all she has touched.

The Oyo State Library Board extends its deepest gratitude to Mrs. Akinabi for her immeasurable service and wishes her a retirement filled with joy, good health, and continued fulfillment.