The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has sustained its book reading programme, which began in August 2024 with Azu Ishiekwene's "Writing for Media and Monetising It". Since then, four other books have been featured, including "The Catalyst: Nigerian Tech Evolution Through A Journalist’s Lens" by Dayo Oketola, "Pirates Of The Gulf" by Bubaraye Dakolo, "Leading In A Storm" by Dakuku Peterside, and "The Pain and Promise: Insights And Fragments On Nigeria And People Public And Personal (1990-2025)" by Paul C. Nwabuikwu. The programme aims to promote reading and critical thinking.
The authors featured in the programme come from diverse backgrounds, sharing a common goal of documenting and defining issues in Nigeria. Azu Ishiekwene is a journalist and Senior Vice Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Leadership Newspapers. Dayo Oketola is a journalist and former Editor of The PUNCH. Dakuku Peterside is a politician and former Rivers State Commissioner for Works. Bubaraye Dakolo is a former soldier and traditional ruler, while Paul C. Nwabuikwu is a columnist and reputation manager.
The NCDMB book reading programme seeks to inspire critical thinking and generate debate on the Nigerian state. The programme's philosophy is that true national capacity is built inside the human mind through reading and critical thinking. The Board believes that it has a broader mandate beyond its role in the oil and gas industry, which is to nurture intellectual and professional capacity. The books are carefully selected to celebrate Nigerian writers who share important national stories.
The benefits of reading extend beyond intellectual growth, with positive impacts on physical and mental health. Reading improves brain function, reduces stress, and expands knowledge. Regular reading reduces the risk of memory loss and cognitive decline associated with ageing. It also promotes personal growth and skills by expanding vocabulary, building empathy, and increasing focus. The NCDMB programme encourages Nigerians to adopt a culture of learning through book reading.
The fifth edition of the programme featured Paul C. Nwabuikwu's book, "The Pain and Promise: Insights And Fragments On Nigeria And People Public And Personal (1990-2025)". The event took place at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and was attended by leading lights of the Bayelsa State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
The event included lively discussions and question-and-answer sessions, with excerpts from topical chapters of the book read and debated. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, represented by Obinna Ezeobi, General Manager, Corporate Communications Division, highlighted the Board's thoughts behind the programme. Ogbe explained that the programme reflects the Board's corporate policy toward promoting reading, learning, and continuous exchange of ideas.
The NCDMB book reading programme has become an annual event, with the latest edition taking place on September 15. The programme has garnered attention from various stakeholders, including academics and university undergraduates. The initiative aims to foster a culture of reading and critical thinking in Nigeria, promoting national growth and development.
Key points
- The NCDMB book reading programme promotes reading and critical thinking in Nigeria.
- The programme features diverse authors and titles, inspiring debate on the Nigerian state.
- The initiative aims to nurture intellectual and professional capacity, fostering national growth and development.
