On the 20th of December, I unveiled an initiative aimed at promoting a reading culture in Nigeria via a citizens framework I called 'Bring Back The Book'. Let me use this opportunity to thank you all who attending the event or followed it on television or the Internet. In about 12days time about a hundred Nigerian writers, publishers, booksellers and others involved in the urgent matter of the BOOK will meet in retreat in furtherance of the initiative.
Earlier, I had hosted the National Education Summit following the dismal performance of our children in the WAEC and NECO and last Wednesday I inaugurated the Education Task Team to review the report arising from the summit for immediate action. The Bring Back the Book campaign is a national survival and progressive imperative that must transcend governments. I want you my friends on facebook to join me and other friends and fellow citizens in our beloved country to drive this campaign for in it lies our freedom! We have no choice but to read and encourage ourselves to read and read and read again.
The bring back the book will grow our dying publishing industry; it will encourage the rise and rise of our young and talented writers so that The Soyinkas, Achebes and the J.P. Clarks will be happier in their old age that they have worthy successors! In practical terms I see many book clubs and libraries been established in our communities and cities in the months and years ahead. I am encouraged by the debates and the discussions following the Lagos launch and I hear very loudly the lamentation regarding the threats from the twin evil of book piracy and illiteracy. I am confident that with us all citizens working together to uplift the book over and above politics of cynicism and doubt, we shall overcome Nigeria cannot be stopped!
- GEJ
Bringing Back The Book | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/notes/goodluck-jonathan/bringing-back-the-book/186549398039370)