By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Femi Dansu
In a bid to foster a culture of reading, safeguard intellectual property, and combat piracy and copyright infringement, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), in collaboration with the Nigerian Book Publishers Association (NPBA) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission, have continued to promote the visibility of the Nigerian publishing industry through the establishment of FUNAAB Bookshop.
The Bookshop, since its establishment, has been increasing access to educational resources and bringing a diverse array of books to students and staff, while enriching the intellectual and cultural fabric of both the University and its adjoining communities.
The new facility, temporarily and strategically located in the heart of the University, beside the Directorate of Public Relations, provides students, staff, and the wider community access to a wide range of academic texts, research materials, and literary works.
Speaking with FUNAAB Bulletin , on the state of the Bookshop, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Chairman of the Bookshop Board, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde for the initiative in establishing the Bookshop, saying it was a landmark achievement that aligned with the University’s vision of creating a world-class learning environment.
He stressed the indispensable role of a bookshop in any academic institution, noting that it served as a vital resource hub that enhances research and learning. “A university without a bookshop is incomplete. This bookshop will ensure the availability of essential knowledge resources to support the academic journey of both students and faculty,” Prof. Akinyemi remarked.
Prof. Akinyemi also highlighted plans for the Bookshop’s future growth, envisioning it as a full-fledged bookshop where stationery would be sold at affordable rates, including other academic resources. He added that the Bookshop would rival those of leading universities in Nigeria within the shortest possible time. He, therefore, assured the community that books and other academic materials would be made available at affordable prices, reinforcing FUNAAB’s commitment to providing access to quality education for all.
A member of the Bookshop Management Board, Dr. Tope Olaifa, who is also a staff in the Institute of Communication and General Studies, appreciated the University Management for the pivotal role in bringing the bookshop to life. She noted that the facility would not only serve the University’s internal community but also extend its services to neighbouring institutions.
Dr. Olaifa further revealed plans for a permanent, state-of-the-art bookshop building and assured the public that the “No Piracy” policy would be strictly enforced, ensuring that only original, high-quality books are sold.
Speaking also, the Bookshop’s Manager, Mr. Taofeek Bello outlined additional goals, including the Bookshop taking over the procurement of books for the FUNAAB International School (FUNIS) and the Staff School. He encouraged parents, students, and staff to patronise the Bookshop, emphasising the convenience and reliability it offers.
The launch of the campus bookshop underscored FUNAAB’s dedication to cultivating a culture of learning, reading, and innovation. The initiative reaffirms the University’s mission to provide a comprehensive academic experience, equipping students and faculty with the tools necessary for success in today’s competitive knowledge-driven world.
