In an era where information is king and access to knowledge defines the progress of a people, the newly renovated Cross River State Library Complex stands out as a symbol of purposeful governance and a renewed commitment to intellectual development.
On a guided tour led by the state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) visited several projects executed under the current administration. Among them, the refurbished state library project shone brightly—not just for its physical transformation, but for the clear vision it represents.
What was once a forgotten edifice with dusty shelves and dwindling patronage has been reborn into a smart, modern public library, outfitted with state-of-the-art furniture, broadband internet access, and a serene reading environment that rivals the best in the country. The once drab interiors have given way to sleek white workstations, ergonomic chairs, tiled floors, and efficient lighting. Shelves are now well-organized, brimming with up-to-date academic and literary resources.
“This is more than a library; it is a hub of enlightenment,” said a visibly impressed journalist who toured the facility. “It shows what is possible when leaders take education and public service seriously.”
While inspecting the projects, Commissioner Ekpang emphasized that the transformation of the library is a reflection of the Governor’s broader commitment to education, digital literacy, and youth empowerment. “This administration believes that access to knowledge is a right, not a privilege,” the Commissioner stated. “The Governor has taken deliberate steps to revive this critical institution, ensuring our youth have a world-class space to learn, innovate, and grow.”
Students and researchers can now access digital learning tools, use dedicated spaces for group study, and enjoy an environment that inspires reading and critical thinking. The library now also serves as a co-working space, catering to young entrepreneurs and creatives in need of a peaceful yet resource-rich workspace.
The library’s transformation is not just a facelift—it is a challenge to other states in Nigeria to reimagine what public spaces can become with the right leadership and political will. In a time where libraries across the nation are becoming relics of the past, Cross River has made a bold statement: learning still matters.
With the momentum generated by this project, stakeholders are hopeful that the Governor’s administration will continue to invest in education and innovation. The library could soon become a model for e-learning integration, virtual book clubs, and technology boot camps.
As the sun sets on the day’s tour of projects, one thing is certain: the Cross River State Library is no longer just a building—it is a beacon. And the Governor Bassey Edet Otu, indeed, got it right.
