PROF. MAKINDE PRESENTS A TOP-NOTCH SPEECH AT THE 19TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE OF LiPAN
Address Presented by the President of the Literacy Promotion Association, Nigeria (LiPAN) formerly the Reading Association of Nigeria (RAN) Professor Solomon Olanrewaju Makinde, mnae on the Occasion of the 19th Biennial Conference with the Theme: Literacy for Sustainable Development Held at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port-Harcourt, Rivers Stat, Nigeria between 6th and 10th October, 2024.
ProtocolsDistinguished Guests, Esteemed Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the 19th Biennial Conference of the Literacy Promotion Association of Nigeria. Literacy Promotion Association, Nigeria (LiPAN) formerly the Reading Association of Nigeria (RAN). LiPAN/RAN was inaugurated at the end of an international Seminar on Reading held in Zaria from August 9-13. 1982. LiPAN has held Biennial Conferences: Zaria 1984, Ibadan 1985, Jos 1987, Owerri 1989, Ilorin 1993, Ife 1997, Aba 1999, Zaria 2002, Port-Harcourt 2006, Uyo 2008, Makurdi 2010, Abuja 2012, Ekiti 2014, Calabar 2016, Awka 2018, Port-Harcourt 2020 and Lagos (LASU) 2022 and this 19th edition in Port-Harcourt, 2024.
Four Mid-term Conferences had also been held in Ibadan 2007, Owerri 2009, Nsukka 2013, Ikeji-Arakeji 2015, Owerri 2019, and Ado-Ekiti 2021.
This year's conference, centered on the theme “Literacy for Sustainable Development,” could not be more timely or more significant. As we gather here today, we do so with a shared commitment to one of the most powerful forces for positive change in our society—literacy. The ability to read and write is not just a skill; it is the foundation upon which we build informed, engaged, and sustainable communities.
We are living in a world that faces unprecedented challenges—climate change, economic inequality, and political instability, to name a few. It is clear that education, particularly literacy, must play a central role in finding solutions to these global issues. As Paulo Freire once said, “Literacy is not only about reading words, but about reading the world.” Literacy empowers individuals to question, to innovate, and to act—key ingredients for sustainable development in any society.
Literacy is much more than the ability to decode words on a page; it is about empowering individuals to engage with the world, participate in their communities, and contribute to societal progress. It is the cornerstone of human dignity and freedom. As Nelson Mandela famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” In today’s global context, we must recognize that sustainable development is impossible without literacy. It is through education that we can foster the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking necessary to tackle the complex challenges of poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice.
At this conference, we are reminded of the intrinsic link between literacy and sustainability. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without a well-informed population that understands its rights, responsibilities, and the impact of its actions on future generations. In other words, literacy is not just about personal development; it is about collective progress. It is the engine that drives innovation and ensures that our communities can meet the needs of today without compromising the opportunities of tomorrow.
Literacy plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic advancement of any nation. It fuels economic growth, improves health outcomes, and promotes peace and democracy. Without a literate population, sustainable development is nothing more than an abstract ideal. In Nigeria, where many still face barriers to education—whether due to poverty, gender inequality, or geographic isolation—our mission is clear: we must break down these barriers and ensure that literacy is accessible to all.
The words of Kofi Annan resonate powerfully in this context: “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope.” As we reflect on the theme of this year’s conference, let us recognize the hope that literacy brings—not only to individuals but to entire communities. A literate society is one that is empowered to make informed decisions about its future, to build sustainable livelihoods, and to engage with the challenges of climate change, political instability, and inequality.
Achieving literacy for sustainable development is not the responsibility of one sector alone—it requires a collaborative effort. Government bodies, educational institutions, civil society, and the private sector must all work together to create an environment in which literacy thrives. This is especially true in a country as diverse as Nigeria, where language and cultural differences present both challenges and opportunities in literacy promotion.
We are reminded of the words of Malala Yousafzai, who said, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” As we deliberate on this important theme over the coming days, let us keep in mind the transformative power of even the smallest actions in literacy promotion. By fostering literacy, we are not only equipping individuals with the tools to improve their own lives; we are laying the foundation for sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.
As we convene for this conference, we also take the time to celebrate our collective achievements over the years. Since its inception, the Literacy Promotion Association of Nigeria has been at the forefront of efforts to improve literacy rates, develop educational resources, and influence policy. We have made great strides, but there is still much work to be done.
Let us not forget the visionaries and literacy advocates whose work has paved the way for us. The legacy of great educators like Tai Solarin, who championed the cause of free and quality education in Nigeria, serves as a powerful reminder that education is not only a right but a duty for the advancement of society. As we continue this legacy, let us draw inspiration from those who came before us, as well as from each other, to push the boundaries of what is possible in literacy and education.
As we look to the future, we recognize that literacy is the key to unlocking the potential of our people and achieving sustainable development. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) place a clear emphasis on education, particularly Goal 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Achieving this goal will require not just political will but innovative approaches, collaboration, and unwavering commitment from all of us.
In the words of Dr. Seuss, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” As we engage in discussions, workshops, and sessions over the next few days, let us embrace this spirit of learning and growth. Let us exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop actionable strategies that will enable us to drive literacy and sustainable development across Nigeria.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees under the leadership of Prof Obiajulu Emejulu, the Executive Director, National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), the National Executive, the Local Organizing Committee under the leadership of our amiable global scholar, Prof Ibiere Ken Maduako and all participants, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Chairman and all government functionaries for honouring us with their presence. And to our Vice Chancellor and his dynamic team, we express our sincere gratitude.
Vice Chancellor Sir, your belief in the importance of this conference and your continuous backing in all aspects have been pivotal in its success. Your unwavering commitment to education and the promotion of Literacy inspires us to strive for excellence. Thank you for always being there for us Sir.
In closing, I once again welcome you to this important gathering. Let us seize this moment to reflect on our shared mission, to celebrate the progress we have made, and to chart a bold course for the future. Together, through our collective effort, we can ensure that literacy becomes the foundation upon which a more sustainable, just, and equitable Nigeria is built. I seize this opportunity to invite you to our 14th Pan African Literacy for All (PALFA) Conference coming up between October 13th and 17th, 2025 in the University of Lagos.
Thank you, and I wish you all a successful and inspiring conference.
Professor Solomon Olanrewaju Makinde, mnae
President, Literacy Promotion Association, Nigeria (LIPAN) Formerly Reading Association Of Nigeria (RAN).
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