Books hold solutions to most of Nigeria’s challenges, says expert

Popular Edo author Aisien dies at 91

Books have been described as calculators for problem-solving hence reading, storytelling, as well as moonlight stories among family members and associates, will help reduce depression and calm the myriads of problems facing the country.

Chief Executive Officer of All Range Books, Ekom Henry Itauma, made this assertion in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, at the National Conference of Network of Book Clubs and Reading Promoters (NBCRP) in Nigeria.

He added that a robust reading culture was also capable of reducing insecurity, banditry, terrorism and depression-induced suicides in society.

Itauma, a book and library consultant, who urged Nigerians to engage in interdisciplinary conscious reading, stressed the urgent need for value reorientation and promotion of aggressive readership to entrench a robust reading culture in the country.

He explained that voracious reading would enable people to understand that no problem was new on earth and see challenges, which others have overcome rather than commit suicide from depression arising from lives troubles.

He added that government should put up policies that will make people read, canvassed the establishment of libraries in all local government areas across the country.

Itauma also stressed the need to embrace the reading culture and enterprise at the core of the National development process given its notable multiplier effect across all levels.

BESIDES, a renowned writer and author of the book titled: Iwu (the body markings of Edo people), Ekhaguosa Aisien, has died at the age of 91 after a brief illness.

Aisien, a retired British-trained surgeon, who hailed from Oben community in Orhionmwon Council of Edo State, was an accomplished writer and scholar on Benin history.

His other books are, Erediauwa: Prince of Benin; Benin City: The Edo State Capital; The Benin City Pilgrimage Stations; Christianity and Edo State; The Edo Man of the 20th Century; Elegbe: The Prince of Benin; Ughoton; Benin Traditional Marriage Ceremony and Ewuare II: The Oba of Benin.

Confirming his demise, the eldest daughter of the deceased, Uwa Oboh, said their patriarch died before midnight on Sunday, September 19, 2020, in Benin City, adding that the family was yet to announce his funeral arrangements.