Ibiono Ibom Book Club (IIBC) has marked its anniversary after twelve months of functional activities. This came few weeks after Abak Book Club (ABC) held a similar event, all in Akwa Ibom State. The Coordinator of IIBC, Min. Edet William welcomed all attendees to the occasion and traced the history and developmental strides of the club while thanking all supporters and seeking support for further development of the club.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-President of Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria who doubles as the Chairman, 774 Libraries and Book Clubs Project, Prof. Felicia Etim, ably represented by Mrs. Helen Ebi, Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State presented a paper on “Book Clubs and the Cultivation of Reading Culture in Nigeria.”
The Chairman on the occasion, Prof. Antiaobong Ekong represented by Dr. Effiong Inyang emphasized the need for reading if one must be a knowledgeable person and an inspiring leader.
On his part, the Executive Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Ekopimo Edet represented by Mr. Ndueso Akpan donated books and expressed financial support.
The Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Helen Ebi and the Progenitor of Book Clubs Initiative in Akwa Ibom State who doubles as the Coordinator of Uyo Book Club, Dr. Udeme Nana, alongside Barr. Ekpa Bassey Ekpa, among others, made a case for the Council to build a library for Ibiono Ibom Book Club. In a quick response, the Abai of Ibiono Ibom, a custodian of Ibiono Ibom values, Obong Nsima Umoh said that there was a move to build a library in the area ten years ago and that it would be wise for such a move to be reactivated.
The event witnessed the presentation of a certificate of recognition to IIBC by Dr Udeme Nana on behalf of Network of Book Clubs, Literacy and Reading Promoters in Nigeria, awards to Patrons and Grand Patrons of IIBC, musical presentations by learners of Mass Literacy Centre, Use Ndon, Ibiono Ibom and IIBC members, cash and books donations and promises, solidarity speeches from coordinators of different book clubs in the state, among others.
Other attendees and supporters on the occasion were the Member Representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ime Okon represented by Mr. Bassey Okon; President of Akwa Ibom Elderly Citizens Assembly, Mkpisong Ememobong Essien; the President of Golden Brains Book Club of the National Library of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Victor Etim; Coordinator of Abak Book Club, Mrs Mary Jonas; traditional leaders, women and youth leaders, students and other members of the community.
© IIBC & Golden Brains Book Club, NLN, AKS
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