The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has announced ambitious plans to commemorate its 60th anniversary, including the construction of a N1 billion ultra-modern secretariat and renewed efforts to combat book piracy across the country.
Diamond Jubilee Celebrations and Historic Conference
NPA President, Alhaji Lukman Dauda, revealed during a press conference at the association's secretariat in Ibadan that this year's annual conference scheduled for December 4, 2025, will mark the organization's diamond jubilee. The association was originally founded in 1965 by pioneering figures including Revd. T.T. Solaru, Chief Aigboje Higo, Chief F.A. Iwerebon, and Mr G.O. Onibonoje.
The conference, themed "Publishing in Nigeria: 60 Years of Impact, Innovation and Inclusion," will examine the evolution of publishing in Nigeria and its future prospects in an increasingly technological landscape. Dr Wale Okediran, renowned writer and Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), will deliver the keynote address at the event holding at Kakanfo Inn, Ibadan.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Future Plans
Dauda highlighted the association's six-decade contribution to supporting quality education through affordable instructional materials, education policy collaboration, and partnership with the Nigerian Copyright Commission in fighting piracy. "Over the years, publishers have stood in the gap to ensure students have access to quality books aligned with national curriculum standards," he stated.
The NPA president expressed concern about persistent industry challenges, particularly piracy and poor payment practices by some book buyers, mostly private school owners who delay payments despite enjoying credit facilities. He described this practice as one that "kills business and undermines the industry."
Dauda issued a strong warning to customers who knowingly patronize pirates, stating that such actions place them "in the same criminal category as those destroying the publishing profession."
Technological Adaptation and Government Collaboration
On technological advancements, the NPA president confirmed that publishing houses are gradually integrating artificial intelligence into editorial and manuscript processes. However, he emphasized that human verification remains crucial to avoid plagiarism and legal complications.
Dauda stressed the need for closer collaboration between the government and publishing practitioners to ensure education policies translate into accessible learning materials. "Government needs to collaborate with us. They are administrators; we are the practitioners. You cannot design policies in education without involving publishers and expect meaningful success," he asserted.
The anniversary celebration will feature the launch of the N1 billion ultra-modern office complex project, to be funded by member-organizations and partners within and outside the publishing ecosystem. Distinguished guests expected include the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, as Special Guest of Honour, and the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, as Special Guest.
The event will also honor outstanding individuals, member-firms, and foreign partners who have contributed to the industry's growth. The two-day program will conclude with the association's Annual General Meeting on December 5, 2025, at the NPA headquarters in Ibadan.
Dauda appealed to media organizations for support in publicizing the landmark celebration, expressing optimism that the next decade would bring improved innovation, wider accessibility, and stronger government-industry collaboration in Nigeria's publishing sector.
