Nigerians urged to preserve cultural heritage
Librarians have urged Nigerians to take active steps in preserving the nation’s cultural heritage, warning that failure to do so risks eroding vital links between past and future generations. Speaking during the Library Week 2025 programme in Abuja, Folasade Adepoju, Chairperson of the Nigerian Library Association (FCT Chapter), described the event as “a wake‑up call […]
Librarians have urged Nigerians to take active steps in preserving the nation’s cultural heritage, warning that failure to do so risks eroding vital links between past and future generations.
Speaking during the Library Week 2025 programme in Abuja, Folasade Adepoju, Chairperson of the Nigerian Library Association (FCT Chapter), described the event as “a wake‑up call for everyone to be a part of the preservation of our cultural heritage.”
She explained that cultural heritage goes beyond physical artifacts such as buildings and artworks to include traditions, folklore and oral history.
“What do we stand to achieve as librarians: to tell the world that for too long we’ve ignored our stories, our history and what we are known for,” she said.
Adepoju noted that heritage provides a sense of identity and shared history for communities, represents the lessons of previous generations, and helps prevent the repetition of negative historical events. She added that it can be celebrated, replicated and used for education to reinforce positive values.
Delivering the keynote, Dr Ugorji Ifeanyi said libraries have the power to unite people by breaking down barriers of culture and knowledge. He stressed that they serve as bridges where divisions exist, creating spaces for communities to learn, share and grow together.
He spoke on the theme “Libraries Without Borders: Bridging Gaps and Building Bridges for Cultural Appreciation, Promotion and Preservation.”
Dr Ifeanyi explained that libraries have evolved beyond being storehouses of books to become gateways of knowledge and culture.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, libraries today play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between nations, communities and individuals by promoting access to information and encouraging cross‑cultural understanding,” he said.
He added that libraries are custodians of cultural heritage, preserving traditions, languages and collective memories. Through digital platforms, collaborations and open‑access initiatives, he said, libraries extend their reach to underserved populations, ensuring knowledge is no longer confined by walls or limited by location.
He added that the role of libraries as cultural mediators, promoting dialogue, tolerance and inclusivity while safeguarding Nigeria’s diverse traditions.
Dr Ifeanyi noted that libraries connect communities across borders, amplify marginalized voices, and provide neutral spaces for dialogue and peacebuilding.
The event underscored the importance of libraries in shaping an informed and culturally aware society. Both speakers stressed that preserving heritage is not only about protecting the past but also about building a stronger future for Nigeria.