‘It’s critical that Nigerian children not only learn to read — but learn to read in languages they speak and understand’

Mr. Collins Munene is the Regional Director, Africa – Room to Read was in Ibadan for the Launch of Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project, held on Monday June 16, 2025. In this interview with OLUFEMI TIMOTHY OGUNYEJO, Munene spoke about making bold investments in local language literacy can define the future of education in Nigeria and beyond

We’ve just witnessed the official launch of Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project. How significant is this for Room to Read?
THANK you. It’s truly an honour. This moment represents more than just the launch of a project; it marks a significant milestone in our shared journey to transform education in Nigeria. It signals a commitment not only to literacy, but to cultural pride, inclusivity, and sustainable development. Being here with government officials, educators, linguists and publishing partners is both humbling and energizing.

For our readers unfamiliar with Room to Read, could you briefly explain your organization’s mission and scope?
Of course. Room to Read is a global nonprofit that believes world change starts with educated children. Over the past 25 years, we’ve worked in 26 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Our mission centres around two core pillars: literacy and girl’s education. To date, we’ve positively impacted over 50 million children — and we’re not done yet. In fact, we aim to double that number in the next three years through deepened partnerships and scaled initiatives.

That’s incredibly ambitious. How does Nigeria fit into this broader vision?
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country, a cultural and linguistic powerhouse. It’s critical that Nigerian children not only learn to read — but learn to read in languages they speak and understand. This project is an intentional step toward supporting foundational learning in Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa. It aligns with our belief that literacy in local languages is both a right and a strategic lever for equity.

You’re in partnership with Accessible Publishers Ltd for this adaptation project. Why them?
Accessible Publishers Ltd is one of Nigeria’s leading publishing houses, with an impressive footprint in educational publishing and an understanding of the local context. But what stood out for us was not just their technical ability — it was their shared passion for literacy equity. They bring quality, experience, and scale, and together we are developing a collection of 20 beautifully crafted storybooks in Nigeria’s major languages, tailored to early-grade readers.

Could you tell us more about the goals of this Book Selection and Versioning Workshop?
Absolutely. This workshop is where the magic begins. It’s designed to train participants on how to curate child-friendly books, define and align around quality criteria for children’s literature and equip translators and reviewers with the skills to adapt, not just translate, stories — preserving meaning while making them culturally relevant and age-appropriate. It’s both a technical and creative space — where linguists, illustrators, and educators collaborate deeply.

Is this a one-off pilot, or are there long-term plans for expansion?
It’s a pilot with big intentions. Over the next two years, we’ll learn, refine, and prepare to scale. The vision is to expand into more Nigerian states, with more languages while integrating gender-inclusive storylines and promoting community engagement. This is not a flash in the pan — it’s a foundation for sustained impact.

You mentioned government’s partnership. How crucial is their involvement?
Crucial is an understatement. Without the support of state governments and institutions like SUBEB and NERDC, we can’t achieve lasting change. I want to specifically thank leaders from Oyo, Kogi, Abia, and Borno States, as well as the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Oyo, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun. Their endorsement of mother-tongue literacy isn’t just symbolic — it’s a call to protect our cultural heritage through education.

For those who ask, why mother-tongue books? What’s your response?
Great question. When a child opens a book and sees their language, food, clothing, festivals, and family structure reflected, something magical happens: belonging meets curiosity. That emotional connection fuels reading joy. And reading joy, especially in early years, is the rocket fuel for lifelong learning. So, it’s not just about literacy — it’s about identity, inclusion, and aspiration.

As you wrap up today’s launch, what’s your final message?
The moment is now. The need is urgent. And the opportunity is ripe. We stand at a turning point where bold investments in local language literacy can define the future of education in Nigeria and beyond. Together — governments, educators, publishers, linguists, communities — we can ignite a love for reading that lasts a lifetime.

Thank you to all who believe in the power of a child with a book in their hand and a story in their heart!

Regional Director, Africa – Room to Read, Mr. Collins Munene