The Nigerian publishing sector stands at a critical juncture, celebrating a major milestone while confronting significant modern challenges. This was the central theme as the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) commemorated its 60th anniversary with a series of events in Ibadan on December 7, 2025.
A Call for Unity in a Changing Landscape
Delivering the keynote address at the NPA's Annual Conference and Anniversary event, Dr. Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of the Pan-African Writers Association, issued a powerful appeal for unity. He emphasized that the future success of African publishing hinges on deliberate cooperation between all key players.
Okediran charted the industry's evolution from its colonial roots through the rise of indigenous firms to today's digital era. While acknowledging that innovation has dramatically increased access to books, he warned that it has also brought new challenges in maintaining quality and standards.
"The future of publishing in Africa lies in collaboration among authors, publishers, regulators, and technology partners," Okediran stated. "Partnerships are critical to harnessing digital tools while protecting intellectual property." He specifically highlighted the rapid growth of self-publishing, noting it creates opportunities but demands better industry frameworks to ensure professionalism and global competitiveness.
Government Policy and Piracy: Twin Threats to Growth
The event's Chairman, Deacon Solomon Adeleke, praised publishers for their role in preserving intellectual property and boosting education with local materials. However, he expressed deep concern over two major issues stifling the industry.
Firstly, he criticized abrupt changes in government education policy, which often leave publishers facing heavy losses after investing in textbook production. Adeleke urged authorities to engage in regular consultation with the NPA before reviewing curricula or policies.
Secondly, he identified piracy as a major threat, calling for much stronger enforcement of Nigeria's copyright laws to protect the livelihoods of authors and publishers and to encourage creativity.
This sentiment was strongly echoed by Dr. John Asein, Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC). In a goodwill message, he reaffirmed the NCC's commitment to combating piracy, detailing actions taken under the Copyright Act 2022.
"The NCC has intensified public awareness programmes, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and scaled up operations of its Special Taskforce to curb illegal book production and distribution," Asein said. He congratulated the NPA on its diamond jubilee and pledged continued close cooperation to build a resilient and competitive book industry.
Appeal for a Gradual Curriculum Implementation
Alhaji Lukman Dauda, President and Chairman of Council of the NPA, highlighted the association's six-decade commitment to providing affordable, curriculum-aligned learning materials. Addressing the policy concern directly, he made a specific appeal to education authorities.
Dauda proposed that plans to remove school subjects should not be abrupt. Instead, he recommended a transition period of no less than two years to allow both students and publishers to adapt. His practical suggestion was for any new curriculum to begin with Primary One in the 2026/2027 academic session, with other classes following progressively in subsequent years to ensure textbook availability.
"We hope this clarion call will receive the positive attention of the appropriate authorities. As practitioners in the education sector, our contributions will assist the administrators in the policy-making process for the benefit of all concerned," Dauda stated.
The event also featured commendations from other government bodies. Representatives from the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Universal Basic Education Commission praised the NPA's impact and encouraged the adoption of emerging technologies, such as track-and-trace systems, to further their mission.
The celebration concluded with awards for excellence presented to distinguished industry stakeholders, including NCC's Dr. John Asein, bookseller Dr. Kolade Mosuro, and former NPA President Mr. Samuel Kolawole, honoring their service to Nigeria's literary and educational landscape.
