UNINIGER VC Decries Impact of Digital Divide, Cybersecurity, Misinformation on Nigerian libraries

By Praise Chinecherem

Vice Chancellor, University on the Niger, Umunya, Anambra state, Very Revd Prof Chinedu Nebo has expressed worry over growing challenges facing Nigerian libraries in recent times.

He identified digital divide, cybersecurity, misinformation, sustainability, and ethical information governance as serious challenges confronting libraries across the country.

Nebo spoke through Provost of the College of Medicine of the Institution, Prof. Uche Onwudigwu at the celebration of the 2025 World Book Day held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state.

The occasion was themed, “Libraries and Information Institutions at Crossroads: Issues, Implications, and Imperatives in the Era of Change and Transformation”.

Nebo, former Minister of Power listed other challenges to include forces of digitization, changing user behaviors, financial constraints, and rapid technological shifts.

Describing libraries as sanctuaries of learning, Nebo who chaired the occasion called for development of strategic responses to ensure their continued fulfilment of timeless mandate amidst transformation era.

He further underscored the need for deliberate and sustained investment in libraries and information institutions.

“Investing in libraries is investing in education, in research, in innovation and ultimately, in national development.

“We must prioritize funding for infrastructure, technology, collections, and human capital.

“We must recognize libraries as living systems that must grow, adapt and flourish.

“Policy makers, university administrators, corporate partners, and indeed all stakeholders must unite to strengthen libraries so they continue to empower current and future generations,” he stressed.

Host Vice Chancellor, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu highlighted enduring value of books as repositories of knowledge, emphasizing the significance of celebrating World Book Day.

Earlier, University Librarian, Prof Ngozi Anasi appealed for support to upgrade the institution’s library with assistive technologies for its visually impaired students.

“Today’s occasion is a platform to highlight challenges faced by students with disabilities and to call for public and private sector involvement in enhancing inclusive education,” she added.

He expressed gratitude to dignitaries at the occasion, including Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, Vice Chancellor, Paul University, Prof Obiora Nwosu and Guest Lecturer, Prof Charles Omekwu, among others.