From Wilson Oyekemi, Ibadan
The Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB) has pledged stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Library Association (NLA), Oyo State Chapter, to enhance library services and promote a more vibrant reading culture among students.
The assurance was given by the Provost of the College, Prof. Jonathan J. Atungwu, when he received members of the Association who paid a courtesy visit to the institution.
Led by the State Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Sofia Adeyeye, represented by Mr. A. A. Oshunkoya (Ex-Officio), the delegation included Mr. Taofeek A. Oke and Mr. S. B. Jimoh.
Prof. Atungwu expressed appreciation for the visit, stating that the institution remains committed to improving both its physical and electronic library infrastructure in order to widen access to knowledge.
He said the College places priority on strengthening academic resources that would help students become globally competitive. “Our goal is to ensure that our library continues to support teaching, research and learning in the most effective way,” he added.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Oshunkoya lauded the College Management for its cooperation in establishing Library and Information Science as a course in the institution, describing it as a significant pathway for young people aspiring to become professional librarians.
He noted that the visit was also to engage with NLA members within the College and assess their welfare. Oshunkoya, however, expressed concern that FCAIB and the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAHPTIB) currently share a library facility with the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T).
He stressed the need for each institution to operate its own dedicated library facility for effective service delivery, even while maintaining constructive partnership with IAR&T.
“A functional library is at the heart of learning. ICT has its place, yet the foundation of knowledge still lies in books, because what we read is what eventually goes online,” he said.
The NLA representative appealed for support towards the participation of staff members in the forthcoming Annual National Conference of the Association, scheduled to hold in Oyo from November 17 to 20, 2025.
Responding, Prof. Atungwu reaffirmed his belief in professionalism in library management, recalling that he was part of the Board that appointed the Librarian for FUNAAB. He, therefore, approved sponsorship for eligible staff to attend the 2025 conference, describing it as vital for capacity building and knowledge exchange.
Accompanying the Provost were the Deputy Provost (Administration), Dr. Musiliu Adenekan; Registrar, Mr. Abimbade S. Abass; Head of College Library, Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Oshunkoya; Director of Academic and Strategic Planning, Dr. Adeniran Adebayo; and other senior officials.
The Registrar commended the NLA delegation and reiterated the College’s willingness to partner with the Association on initiatives that would strengthen library and information services.
