Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, chairman of the Agege council, on Tuesday called for sustained investment in literacy as the world marks the 60th International Literacy Day.

Mr Obasa said this in a statement by Rasheed Olayiwola, the council’s supervisor for information.

International Literacy Day is celebrated every September 8 to promote literacy and education.

Mr Obasa described literacy as the foundation for individual empowerment, social inclusion, and sustainable community development.

He said the 2026 observance is with the theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity”.

“Literacy must be understood beyond the ability to read and write,” Mr Obasa said.

He noted that literacy provides knowledge, confidence and capacity for people to access opportunities and contribute to community development.

According to the chairman, the council is focusing on school infrastructure, learning facilities, and reading programmes for youths.

He said 17 nursery and primary school blocks had been renovated, with five school libraries established across Agege.

He said the interventions also included 1,800 twin desks, 400 ECCE furniture items, 72 teachers’ furniture sets, and 92 marker boards.

”Plans are underway to expand digital learning through procurement of additional computers,” Mr Obasa said.

According to him, the council provides learning materials, funds external examinations, and gives awards for excellent academic performance.

Mr Obasa appealed to parents, teachers, and community leaders to complement government initiatives by fostering a reading culture and supporting children’s education.

He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to strengthening education and human capital development at the grassroots.

“As we mark 60 years, we must all work together to make literacy inclusive,” the chairman said.

(NAN)