ANA: "Readers are Leaders"- Obasanjo Cries of Declining Reading Culture Among Young Nigerians, Urges a Literary Renaissance

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo raises the alarm over Nigeria’s dwindling reading culture among youth during the ANA Reading/Writers Dialogue in Abuja. Discover how this trend could impact the nation’s literary heritage and leadership, and learn about the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

In a passionate address at the monthly Reading/Writers Dialogue hosted by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) in Abuja, former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed grave concern over the declining reading habits among young Nigerians. Speaking on Saturday, Obasanjo warned that the growing disinterest in reading could jeopardize the nation’s rich literary heritage and lead to the emergence of uninformed future leaders.

A Wake-Up Call for Nigeria’s Literary Future

During his guest writer session for the February edition of the dialogue—titled “The Writers’ Role in Nation-Building and Africa’s First Presidential Library”—Obasanjo stressed the critical role of reading in nurturing both creativity and leadership. “If you want to have writers, you must also have readers,” he declared, urging a renewed commitment to reading as the foundation for intellectual growth and effective governance.

Despite unprecedented digital access, many Nigerian youths are neglecting serious reading. “Reading makes an affective and productive human being,” Obasanjo noted, lamenting that the ease of accessing superficial content online has diminished the habit of deep, reflective reading. He cautioned that this trend could undermine Nigeria’s long-standing literary tradition, which has given the world renowned figures like Chinua Achebe.

Obasanjo recalled Nigeria’s illustrious literary history, highlighting that the country has produced celebrated authors whose works have attained global recognition. “Nigeria has over the years paraded arrays of literary giants. We must raise young writers to carry forward this legacy,” he asserted. Emphasizing that reading is the surest path to becoming a writer, he argued that immersive literary experiences provide young Nigerians with diverse perspectives essential for nation-building.

The former president stressed that if the habit of in-depth reading wanes, the country risks a future where leaders may be inadequately informed to tackle complex challenges. “A reader is a leader; a leader must not necessarily be a writer, but must be a reader to be informed and know what to do,” he explained, linking intellectual rigor with effective governance.

The Ripple Effects of a Declining Reading Culture

Obasanjo’s remarks go beyond the literary sphere. He warned that the erosion of a robust reading culture could have far-reaching implications for national leadership and societal progress. Without the analytical skills and creativity fostered by regular reading, future policymakers might lack the comprehensive understanding needed for effective decision-making in an increasingly complex world.

In today’s fast-paced digital age, the instant gratification of online content often eclipses the slow, reflective process of reading a book. The former president’s warning serves as a clarion call for educators, parents, and cultural leaders to re-emphasize the importance of literature in shaping well-rounded citizens.

Celebrating Literary Giants: The Legacy of Chinua Achebe and Others

During his address, Obasanjo paid tribute to literary giants like Chinua Achebe, whose works have not only elevated Nigerian culture but have also served as a beacon of national pride. Achebe’s writings, among others, have played a pivotal role in introducing Nigeria’s rich cultural narratives to the world. By invoking Achebe’s legacy, Obasanjo reminded the audience that literature is more than mere storytelling—it is a powerful tool for cultural expression and societal transformation.

In addition to celebrating historical achievements, the former president also highlighted his personal contributions to the literary field by providing a synopsis of several of his own works, including My Command, This Animal Called Man, Not My Will, A New Dawn, Democracy Works, and Making Africa Work. His prolific writing career serves as a testament to the enduring influence of a strong reading culture.

Voices of Change: Support from Literary and Cultural Leaders

Obasanjo’s call for a reading revival was echoed by other influential figures at the event. Senator Shehu Sani, an accomplished author and human rights activist, remarked on the transformative power of literature in shaping societal values. In a recent interview, Sani pointed out that while the internet has democratized access to information, it has also contributed to a culture of casual, distracted reading that undermines intellectual growth.

Arch. Chukwudi Eze, Chairman of the ANA Abuja chapter, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to nurturing young talent. “Our Reading/Writing Dialogue is a vital initiative designed to inspire the next generation of Nigerian readers and writers,” Eze stated. He commended Obasanjo’s multifaceted contributions to both governance and literature, emphasizing that his participation in the dialogue was a source of motivation for emerging creative minds.

A Roadmap for a National Reading Renaissance

As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of modern digital culture, there is an urgent need to reinvigorate traditional reading habits. Obasanjo’s speech serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in the education and cultural sectors. By fostering an environment where reading is celebrated and prioritized, Nigeria can ensure that future generations are equipped with the critical thinking skills necessary for effective leadership and societal progress.

Initiatives such as the ANA Reading/Writers Dialogue are instrumental in this endeavor. These platforms not only celebrate literary excellence but also provide mentorship opportunities, workshops, and discussions that can help bridge the gap between established literary traditions and emerging trends in digital media.

Founded in 1981 by the legendary Chinua Achebe, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has played a pivotal role in nurturing Nigeria’s literary talent for over four decades.
The ANA was established on June 27, 1981, during a historic conference held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. This inaugural gathering, attended by prominent literary figures and international guests, laid the groundwork for an organization dedicated to promoting Nigerian literature and safeguarding the rights of writers. Registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Abuja, ANA has since grown into a respected professional body that represents Nigerian creative writers both domestically and internationally.

ANA’s core mission is to encourage and promote Nigerian literature by providing a platform for writers to share their work, engage in critical discussions, and participate in cultural events. The association regularly organizes workshops, mentorship programs, and literary dialogues—such as the Reading/Writers Dialogue—to cultivate a thriving literary community. ANA also sponsors several prestigious literary prizes, which recognize excellence in various genres including prose, poetry, drama, and children’s literature.

With chapters spread across almost all states in Nigeria, ANA operates through a robust national executive council. Its leadership, comprising celebrated authors and literary critics, is responsible for implementing policies and initiatives that drive the association’s vision. ANA’s headquarters are located at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village in Mpape, Abuja—a landmark that symbolizes the enduring legacy of Nigerian literature.

Over the years, ANA has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s literary landscape. Its activities have helped nurture emerging writers, foster literary debates, and ensure that Nigerian narratives remain vibrant and relevant. By collaborating with educational institutions, cultural bodies, and government agencies, ANA continues to advocate for a robust reading culture that can inspire future generations of leaders and innovators.