ANA BENUE COMMEMORATES 2018 WORLD BOOK DAY
By Terseer Sam Baki
Every April twenty-third is observed globally as "The World Book Day."
The day has been set aside by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO to promote reading, publishing and copyright day.
The aim of the day is to influence students and get them acquainted with the world of books especially in the twenty first century where books have become the commonest tool for advocating change in all speres of life.
As part of activities to mark the event in Benue, the State chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors, ANA, in conjunction with the Association's former National President and Minister of State for Education, Professor Jerry Anthony Agada organised a book event at Grahams School, along Naka road in Makurdi to commemorate the day.
Addressing the school children along with their teachers, Professor Agada urged school children across the State to commit themselves to reading as such would make them better Citizens in future.
Professor Agada also said as a writer, he had attached premium to the event. Moreso that it provides opportunity for authors to be celebrated with their books on spotlight.
Also speaking, the State Chairman of ANA, Mr. Charles Iornumbe promised to intensify partnership with Graham Schools and other institutions in the State to promote reading among children so as to save the society from continued decay of reading culture.
The ANA Benue Chairman attributed the declining interest in reading among youth especially children to over indulgence in social media and addiction to television programmes.
In a remark, the Proprietress of Grahams Schools, Mrs. Grace Oyigeya, expressed gratitude to ANA Benue and Professor Agada for choosing their school to commemorate such a high profile World event, adding that the recognition would spur them to do more.
Professor Agada presented copies of his books to the school's management to enrich their library, while Mr. Ortserga Maik , the National Assistant General Secretary of ANA, presented some copies of the books for the "A-Child-A-Book
This year's theme is "Share a Story" to encourage adults, parents and older siblings to read and share stories bearing in mind the impact such an endeavour would have on the children in their schools and homes.
