By Ayomide Oguntuase
The 2026 Reading Time Event was organized by the University Library (Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library) of Obafemi Awolowo University as part of its annual Library Week celebration. The event was held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Oduduwa Hall. It provided a platform for promoting intellectual engagement, fostering a reading culture, and encouraging lifelong learning among students, staff, and invited guests.
The event was aimed at achieving the following objectives:
To promote and sustain a strong reading culture within the university community
To reinforce the significance of intellectual development and academic scholarship
To create an avenue for reflection, learning, and personal growth.
To emphasize the role of the library as a center for knowledge, research, and innovation.
The programme commenced with welcome remarks delivered by the University Librarian, Dr. Olukemi A. Fadehan. In her address, she highlighted the vital role of reading in shaping minds, preserving knowledge, and driving innovation. She also drew attention to the declining reading culture in the digital era and encouraged participants to embrace reading as a powerful tool for personal and academic transformation. She further emphasized that the Reading Time Event was not merely ceremonial, but a reflection of the university’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and intellectual curiosity.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, delivered the official opening address. He commended the University Library for organizing a meaningful and impactful programme, describing reading as the foundation of education and knowledge acquisition.He noted that, despite the distractions of the digital age, initiatives such as the Reading Time Event create opportunities for deep reflection, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement with texts. He subsequently declared the event officially open.
A major highlight of the event was the presence of the Guest Reader, Dele Momodu, a distinguished journalist, publisher, and public figure. He was recognized for his immense contributions to media, literature, and public discourse.
During the event, the following recognitions were made:
Dele Momodu was conferred with the Distinguished Ambassador of the Library Excellence Award.
Oba (Dr.) Adekunle Omoniyi Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, received the Royal Father of the Library Excellence Award
Citation of the Guest Reader.
The citation presented in honour of Chief Dele Momodu highlighted his achievements and contributions, noting that he is:
A globally recognized African journalist and publisher
The founder of Ovation International Magazine
A prominent voice in shaping African narratives on the global stage
An influential public figure with impact across media, politics, and business.
His accomplishments were presented as a source of inspiration to students and members of the academic community.
The Reading Time Event underscored the importance of reading as a critical tool for both academic excellence and personal development. It reinforced the role of libraries in promoting scholarship, innovation, and intellectual growth.
Additionally, the event provided an opportunity for participants to interact with accomplished individuals, thereby encouraging the revival and sustenance of a strong reading culture in contemporary society.
In conclusion the 2026 Reading Time Event was a successful and impactful programme that effectively promoted intellectual engagement and a culture of reading within the university community. Through insightful presentations, recognition of excellence, and active participation, the event achieved its intended objectives.
The presence of distinguished personalities, particularly Dele Momodu, added prestige and inspiration, making the event a memorable highlight of the University’s Library Week.
Ayomide Oguntuase is a Youth Corps member serving with the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Ibadan
