The Coalition of Young Nigerian Librarians has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu's decision to renew the tenure of Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi as Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria. The group described the move as a vote of confidence in ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing the country's knowledge infrastructure.
Strategic Renewal for Continuity
In a statement released on Friday, the Coalition of Young Nigerian Librarians (CYNL) commended President Tinubu for extending Anunobi's appointment for a final five-year term. The coalition, led by National Coordinator Shehu Mustapha and Secretary-General Douglas Lokpobiri, noted that the tenure extension was both well-deserved and strategic. They emphasized that continuity in leadership would help consolidate gains achieved under Anunobi's administration since September 2021.
Digital Transformation and Infrastructure Projects
The coalition highlighted several key initiatives launched during Anunobi's first term, including the National Repository of Nigeria, the Newspaper and Magazine Locator, the Index and Abstract to Nigerian Newspapers, and the National Virtual Library of Nigeria. These projects are part of broader efforts to modernize library services and expand public access to knowledge. CYNL also credited Anunobi with advancing the long-delayed National Library Headquarters project in Abuja and developing plans to transfer heritage collections from 34 state branches to the new facility once completed.
Support for Leadership and Future Plans
The librarians' group expressed confidence that Anunobi's continued leadership would accelerate these projects and support the implementation of the National Library's 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. They reaffirmed their support for both the National Librarian and the Tinubu administration, urging Nigerians to back efforts aimed at strengthening access to information, education, and knowledge management in the country.
Profile of Prof Chinwe Veronica Anunobi
Anunobi is a Professor of Library and Information Science with over two decades of experience as a librarian, educator, and administrator. She currently serves as Nigeria's National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of Nigeria. Beyond her national role, she holds leadership positions in several international organizations, including the Conference of Directors of National Libraries and UNESCO's Information for All Programme in Nigeria. A Fellow of the Nigerian Library Association, she has authored more than 100 academic publications and is widely recognized for her work in digital library development, open educational resources, and information accessibility.
