The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) recently held its 5th Book Reading Programme at the Conference Centre of the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The programme aimed to promote learning, critical thinking, and the exchange of ideas among citizens. NCDMB's Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, emphasized that sustainable national development requires a stronger culture of reading, critical thinking, and continuous learning. He noted that books provide opportunities to learn from others' experiences and knowledge.
The programme featured veteran journalist and strategic communication expert, Mr. Paul C. Nwabuikwu, and his 2025 publication, "The Pain and the Promise: Insights and Fragments on Nigeria and People, Public and Personal, 1990-2025." Excerpts from selected chapters were read and discussed in interactive sessions that explored politics, journalism, national development, and the writer's responsibility to society. The event brought together members of the Association of Nigerian Authors, ANA, Bayelsa State Chapter, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ.
During the discussion, Nwabuikwu shared his experiences as a column writer, driven by the need to add depth and context to events. He reflected on Nigeria's intervention in Liberia and Sierra Leone through ECOMOG, questioning its strategic return despite costing about $8 billion. Nwabuikwu also discussed his use of humour as an "escape valve" for journalists under military rule, allowing them to convey their message without being noticed by the authorities.
Nwabuikwu advised younger writers to develop authentic voices and write only on subjects they are passionate about. He emphasized the importance of being oneself and not trying to imitate others. The Book Reading Programme, which started in August 2024, has featured various authors, including Azu Ishiekwene, Dayo Oketola, King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, and Dr. Dakuku Peterside.
The NCDMB's quarterly reading initiative is a deliberate policy to promote learning and intellectual engagement beyond fabrication yards and oil platforms. Ogbe stressed that the Board's mandate should not be viewed narrowly as technical participation in the oil and gas industry, but also as building intellectual and institutional capacities for meaningful national participation.
The event was attended by academics and university undergraduates, who engaged in discussions and asked questions. The programme aims to strengthen literacy and intellectual engagement among Nigerians, promoting a culture of reading and critical thinking. The NCDMB's efforts to foster a culture of learning and intellectual engagement are crucial for sustainable national development.
The 5th Book Reading Programme demonstrates NCDMB's commitment to human capital development, going beyond technical and professional skills to promote critical thinking and continuous learning. The programme's impact is expected to be felt in the years to come, as Nigerians develop a stronger culture of reading and intellectual engagement.
Key points
- NCDMB's 5th Book Reading Programme promotes reading, critical thinking, and continuous learning for sustainable national development.
- The programme features veteran journalist and strategic communication expert, Mr. Paul C. Nwabuikwu, and his 2025 publication.
- The event aims to strengthen literacy and intellectual engagement among Nigerians, promoting a culture of reading and critical thinking.
