Dr. Bamidele Kogbe Bags National Honour, Ibadan Book Club Reacts

 

DR. BAMIDELE KOGBE BAGS NATIONAL HONOUR, IBADAN BOOK CLUB REACTS

 

The Ibadan Book Club has congratulated Dr. Bamidele Ibrahim Kogbe, esteemed author and dedicated civil servant, on being named a recipient of the prestigious EPIC Award during the 2025 International Civil Service Day celebrations recently held in Nigeria.

According to the Club, the recognition is a well-deserved honour that celebrates Dr. Kogbe’s exemplary contributions to public service.

In a statement signed and released by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, the Ibadan Book Club commended Dr. Kogbe’s outstanding achievements in the Nigerian civil service. The Club described him as an inspirational figure whose professional and creative pursuits continue to motivate young writers and professionals nationwide.

The EPIC Award—standing for Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible and Citizen-Centered—was instituted by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation under the leadership of Didi Esther Walson-Jack. The award recognizes federal civil servants who have distinguished themselves in service across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

Dr. Kogbe currently serves as an Assistant Chief Administrative Officer in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, where he has consistently demonstrated dedication, leadership, and integrity. His recognition with the EPIC Award reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence in governance and administration.

In addition to his civil service career, Dr. Kogbe is a celebrated literary figure. His published works include Songs of a Wounded Dove (2007), Child of Destiny (2009), The Gods Had Gone to Sleep, and The Young Farmer (2009). These works have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s literary landscape.

Dr. Kogbe is also a former recipient of the 2010 Oyo State Merit Award in Literary Arts, further cementing his place among Nigeria’s notable literary minds.

Academically, he holds a PhD in Politics and International Relations from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria and a former visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Policing and Security, University of South Wales, UK.

Wole Adedoyin, while applauding the award committee, stated that Dr. Kogbe’s achievement should serve as an inspiration to civil servants who balance their professional responsibilities with meaningful societal contributions. He described Dr. Kogbe’s story as a model of the intellectual leadership Nigeria urgently needs.

The Ibadan Book Club, committed to promoting reading culture and intellectual development in Oyo State and beyond, reaffirmed its support for writers and public servants like Dr. Kogbe. The Club also encouraged other creatives in the public sector to follow his inspiring example.

 

Oyo Library Board Flags Off Readership Campaign in Igboora

 OYO LIBRARY BOARD FLAGS OFF READERSHIP CAMPAIGN IN IGBOORA 

The Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, Hon. Yemi Taiwo recently  declared open the One-Day Readership Promotion Campaign held at the Igboora Township Hall, Ibarapa Central Local Government. 

The event, themed *“Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success,”* marked a significant push toward strengthening reading culture and academic development in rural communities.

Represented by Alhaja Sekinat Akanbi, Hon. Taiwo in his opening address acknowledged the presence and commitment of educators, students, community leaders, and sponsors in fostering literacy development. He underscored the role of libraries in shaping critical thinking, academic achievement, and continuous learning, especially in today’s information-driven world.

Hon. Taiwo emphasized that the ability to read, analyze, and comprehend information is now more crucial than ever. He called on educators and youth to embrace reading not just as an academic exercise but as a lifelong companion. He assured attendees that the Library Board remains committed to removing barriers to access and to making reading enjoyable and accessible for all.

He further stated that the Board is dedicated to improving library infrastructure, increasing access to reading resources, and launching creative programmes to stimulate reading interest among diverse populations. With those remarks, Hon. Taiwo declared the campaign officially open and called on all stakeholders to unite in advancing a culture of knowledge and literacy.

In his welcome speech, the State Librarian, Mr. Awotona Samuel, highlighted the importance of nurturing a strong reading culture among Nigerian youth. He lauded the turnout and enthusiasm of participants, stressing that libraries are key drivers of academic excellence, discipline, and personal growth. Mr. Awotona encouraged students to discover joy in reading and urged community leaders to help revive libraries within their communities.

The day’s activities included an enlightening lecture, the launch of Library Ambassadors, engaging Book Tasting sessions, and a competitive Spelling Challenge. Mr. Awotona applauded the active participation of students and reiterated the need for collective efforts in sustaining a vibrant reading culture across the state.

The Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Adeleke Olusola, represented by Hon. Atilola Oyeyemi, Chief of Staff of the Local Government, commended the initiative, noting that it was the first of its kind in Ibarapa Central. He reiterated the commitment of the local administration to building a modern library facility in the area, encouraging students to take full advantage of the learning opportunities being presented.

Guest speaker Dr. Oyewo Rasaq Oyekanmi delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled *“Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success.”* He explained that academic excellence stems from a sound mind—defined by clarity of thought, emotional balance, and resilience. Dr. Oyewo offered practical strategies for mental development and called for collaborative efforts from families, educators, and the broader community in supporting students' mental wellness.

Dr. Oyewo concluded by advocating for a balanced educational approach that incorporates mental health awareness into the school curriculum. He stressed that sound minds create successful students and responsible citizens, inspiring all present to view mental well-being as central to educational advancement.

In his goodwill message, His Royal Majesty Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye, the Olu Igboora, represented by Chief Gani Adefemi, welcomed the initiative to his domain and commended the organizers. He expressed optimism that the planned library project in the area would accelerate educational growth and strengthen community development through literacy.

The event, attended by traditional rulers, educators, government officials, and students from across Ibarapa Central, was a remarkable step in repositioning libraries and reading as foundational tools for national development.