Asaba Monarch, Librarians Seek Better Funding for Libraries in Delta
By Jason Oghenevieze
The Nigerian Library Association (NLA), Delta State Chapter, has taken its campaign for improved library funding to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, with both parties agreeing that libraries remain essential to education, research and community development in the state.
The advocacy visit, which took place on Thursday at the monarch’s palace in Asaba, saw the NLA leadership press home its demand for greater government investment in libraries and information centres across Delta State.
Dr. Azuka O. Chegwe, Chairman of the NLA Delta Chapter, who led the delegation, told the Asagba that the association was devoted to promoting library development, reviving reading culture and ensuring that citizens have wider access to information.
According to him, libraries are far more than structures filled with books. He described them as vital hubs for education, research, personal growth and the overall advancement of communities.
Chegwe noted that a properly funded library system would equip citizens with information capable of transforming their lives and driving societal progress.
He therefore called on the Asagba to throw his weight behind the association’s push for better library development and increased government spending on the sector.
The NLA chairman also raised the issue of the missing National Library in Delta State, asking the monarch to support efforts to site one in Asaba.
In his response, the Asagba backed the association’s demands, insisting that libraries had not lost their relevance despite the fast pace of digital technology.
He described libraries as critical centres of knowledge, education and research, and highlighted their role in national development.
The monarch urged librarians to raise their voices louder in the fight for improved funding and better library infrastructure.
He further challenged the NLA to speak truth to power by drawing government attention to the neglect and poor funding of libraries, warning that no nation could record meaningful development without a solid education system and functional knowledge institutions.
The Asagba promised the palace’s support for library development in Delta State, government investment in libraries, the establishment of a National Library in Asaba, and the preservation of historical records, cultural heritage and knowledge resources.
The delegation also invited the monarch to serve as Royal Father of the Day at the opening ceremony of the association’s 2026 Annual Conference, billed for December 3 at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba. He accepted the invitation.
Those on the 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 Dr. Doris Aghoghovwia, College Librarian, Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba; Mr. Remmy Edozie, Deputy Director, Library Services; Mr. Sylvester Ebhonu, National PRO; Mrs. Nkeiru C. Udoh of Dennis Osadebay University; and Mrs. Angela Owabor of Government House Library.
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