*seek stronger role in education policy
By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has said plan is underway to commit more investment in technology and artificial intelligence in order to improve editorial efficiency and production timelines.
These the Association said is necessary because, in spite of technological advances, human oversight remained vital to prevent inaccuracies, plagiarism and reputational damage.
He said, although, artificial intelligence had been integrated into some editorial processes, caution must be exercise to avoid legal, ethical and quality-related problems.
The Association said it remains committed to addressing what it described as “widening access to quality education” by making affordable and dependable instructional materials available for learners nationwide.
President of the Association, Lukman Dauda while making the committment said the association’s diamond jubilee celebration offered an opportunity to reflect on the six decades of contributions to national education development
He called for stronger collaboration with government agencies, saying publishers are strategic partners in implementing education reforms across all levels.
He explained that the NPA had consistently supported government efforts by producing well-researched textbooks used in both public and private schools across the country.
Dauda noted that publishers and government agencies had worked closely on textbook standards, ensuring that materials met national benchmarks for curriculum and assessment.
He said the NPA’s partnership with the Nigerian Copyright Commission had reduced piracy, although he described the crime as a persistent threat to legitimate publishers.
He said, “Curriculum development is the raw material from NERDC, but publishers turn it into books used for WAEC, NECO and JAMB.”
He added that publishers played a central role in shaping classroom experiences by interpreting curriculum frameworks into user-friendly materials for learners and teachers.
He added, “You cannot achieve meaningful success with policies that do not carry publishers along. The government administers, but we work on the field.”
He listed delayed payments by private school owners as one of the industry’s most serious challenges, especially for small and medium publishers, saying “some customers hold our funds for up to a year. It kills business.”
Dauda also condemned the circulation of pirated books in schools, warning that buyers who knowingly support pirates undermine national education goals.
The NPA president said the 2025 Annual Conference slated for December 4th in Ibadan would review the association’s journey and future direction.
He said the theme, “Publishing in Nigeria: 60 Years of Impact, Innovation and Inclusion”, reflected both historical achievements and emerging global industry trends.
Dauda recalled that the association, founded by pioneers such as Revd T.T. Solaru and Chief Aigboje Higo, had shaped Nigeria’s publishing landscape since 1965.
He said the keynote address would be delivered by Dr Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association.
Dauda disclosed that the association would unveil its proposed N1 billion ultra-modern office complex to enhance its operations and visibility.
He said the project would be funded through member contributions and support from partners within and outside the book production ecosystem.
Dignitaries expected at the anniversary event include foreign envoys, former ICAN council member Solomon Adeleke and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
He said the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, was also expected as a Special Guest during the conference.
Dauda added that long-standing contributors to the publishing industry, including international supporters, would receive awards in recognition of their impact.
