By collaborating with the government to supply affordable and high-quality textbooks, publishers can play a crucial role in ensuring that the free education policy achieves its intended outcomes.
The Nigerian publishing industry is witnessing a transformative phase, driven by collaborative efforts between publishers and government entities.
Lukman Dauda, President of the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) and Managing Director of Evans Brothers (Nigeria Publishers) Ltd, has highlighted the pivotal role of Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, in creating a conducive environment for businesses and advancing education through progressive policies.
This brief essay explores the intersection of publishing, education, and governance in Nigeria, focusing on the opportunities for collaboration and growth, that has parallels with my own situation here in The Gambia where I run a not-for-profit private school.
Free Education Policy: A Catalyst for Change
Governor Makinde’s free education policy has emerged as a cornerstone of his administration, enabling many financially disadvantaged families to enrol their children in schools. Dauda commended this initiative, noting its potential to elevate the standard of education in Oyo State. However, he emphasised that the policy’s success hinges on complementary measures, such as providing books and improving the learning environment.
Lukman, please find time to come visit The Gambia and explain how this works!
For publishers (not many in The Gambia, sadly), this presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the educational landscape. By collaborating with the government to supply affordable and high-quality textbooks, publishers can play a crucial role in ensuring that the free education policy achieves its intended outcomes. Such partnerships not only benefit students but also strengthen the publishing industry’s position as a key stakeholder in national development.
Business-Friendly Environment: A Boost for Publishing
The improved security and business-friendly atmosphere in Oyo State have been instrumental in fostering growth within the publishing sector.
Dauda noted that these conditions enable publishers to operate without fear, positively impacting book pricing and accessibility. The modest approach to the book review process, as implemented by the state government, further supports publishers by reducing unnecessary financial burdens.
These measures underscore the importance of governance in shaping the publishing industry’s trajectory. A stable and supportive environment allows publishers to focus on their core mission of producing and distributing educational materials while contributing to the broader goal of societal advancement.
Collaboration: Unlocking Potential
Dauda has called for greater collaboration between the NPA and the Oyo State government, noting the NPA’s headquarters in Ibadan positions the association as a valuable resource for the state. By leveraging this proximity, the government and publishers can work together to optimise resources and deliver impactful results.
This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.
