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The Nigerian Copyright Commission proposes July 13 as National Reading Day in honour of Wole Soyinka.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to literature, activism, and cultural diplomacy, Wole Soyinka’s legacy continues to inspire writers, activists, and intellectuals worldwide. His life and work serve as a testament to the enduring power of literature to provoke thought, ignite change, and transcend borders, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s most revered literary icons.

Published

1 week ago

April 24, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Nigerian Copyright Commission Proposes July 13 as National Reading Day in honour of Wole Soyinka.

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has proposed to designate July 13, the birthday of Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, as Nigeria’s National Reading Day. The announcement came during the 2024 World Book and Copyright Day celebration in Ibadan, where Dr. John Asein, Director-General of the NCC, declared Soyinka the Copyright Change Champion.

Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel Laureate in Literature, is celebrated globally for his profound literary works exploring themes of identity, politics, and societal issues. Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Soyinka has authored numerous plays, essays, and poems, garnering acclaim for his literary prowess and advocacy for intellectual property rights.

The 2024 World Book and Copyright Day theme, “Read Your Way,” underscores the transformative power of reading in shaping individuals’ characters, stimulating intellectual growth, and fostering creativity. In alignment with this theme, the NCC is launching various initiatives throughout the year to promote reading for pleasure and raise awareness about copyright protection.

The NCC designates the Nobel laureate as Copyright Change Champion during the 2024 World Book and Copyright Day celebration.

As part of the NCC’s ABC Action Plan, efforts will be made to make reading more enjoyable and accessible to all Nigerians. This includes distributing copies of Soyinka’s works and other prominent titles to public schools and establishing Copyright and Creativity Clubs to encourage a love for literature and respect for intellectual property rights.

In addition to honouring Soyinka’s 90th birthday, the NCC aims to advocate for July 13 to be recognised as Nigeria’s National Reading Day, urging stakeholders in the publishing sector to support this initiative. The occasion also served as a platform for discussions and talks by literary enthusiasts, academics, and students, emphasising the importance of reading and promoting equal access to knowledge.

Wole Soyinka’s legacy as a literary icon, playwright, essayist, and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador continues to inspire generations of writers and readers worldwide. Through his contributions to literature and advocacy for copyright protection, Soyinka remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s rich literary landscape, deserving recognition as the country’s first Copyright Change Champion.

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