The Nigerian Library Association (NLA), Delta State Chapter, and the Asagba of Asaba, (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, have called for increased funding and investment in libraries to strengthen education, research, knowledge development and community growth in Delta State.
The call was made on Thursday when the leadership of the NLA Delta Chapter paid a courtesy visit to the Asagba of Asaba at his palace in Asaba.
Speaking during the visit, the NLA Delta Chapter Chairman, Dr. Azuka O. Chegwe, said the association was committed to promoting the development of libraries and information centres, strengthening reading culture, facilitating knowledge creation and management, and ensuring wider access to information.
Dr. Chegwe explained that libraries were not merely buildings housing books and other information materials, but important centres for education, research, personal development and community advancement.
He said a well-supported library system could provide citizens with vital information capable of improving their lives and contributing to the development of society.
The NLA chairman appealed to the Asagba of Asaba to lend his voice and influence to the association’s advocacy for improved library development and government investment in the sector.
He also drew the monarch’s attention to the absence of a National Library in Delta State and sought his support for its establishment in Asaba.
Responding, the Asagba endorsed the NLA’s advocacy, stressing that the libraries in the State remained relevant despite the rapid advancement of the digital technology.
The monarch described libraries as critical centres of knowledge, education and research, noting their importance to national development.
He urged librarians to “use their voices” and make their advocacy louder in demanding better funding and improved library infrastructure.
The Asagba of Asaba further charged the NLA to speak truth to power by drawing government’s attention to the neglect and underfunding of libraries, stressing that no nation could achieve meaningful development without a strong education system and effective knowledge institutions.
He pledged the support of the palace towards promoting library development in Delta State, attracting government investment in libraries, supporting the establishment of a National Library in Asaba, and preserving historical records, cultural heritage and knowledge resources.
The NLA delegation also invited the Asagba of Asaba to serve as the Royal Father of the Day at the opening ceremony of the association’s 2026 Annual Conference, scheduled for December 3 at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba. The monarch graciously accepted the invitation.
Members of the NLA delegation included the Vice-Chairman, Dr. Grace Dada; Secretary, Mrs. Jacinta Ogonwa; Treasurer, Dr. Emuejevoke Ogo; Assistant Secretary, Dr. Patrick Ijiekhuamhen; Public Relations Officer, Dr. Esther Fadairo; and Director of Library Services, Mrs. Ediri Irikefe.
Others were the College Librarian, Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, Dr. Doris Aghoghovwia; Deputy Director, Library Services, Mr. Remmy Edozie; National PRO, Mr. Sylvester Ebhonu; Mrs. Nkeiru C. Udoh of Dennis Osadebay University; and Mrs. Angela Owabor of Government House Library.
