Lagos: In a powerful call to action, education experts gathered in Lagos emphasised the critical importance of fostering a strong reading culture among Nigerian youths as a pathway to sustainable development.
They spoke during a book launch and 60th birthday celebration of Anthony Ademuyiwa, a philanthropist and gospel musician.
Gospel music icons, dignitaries, and well-wishers gathered at the Supreme Education Foundation (SEF), Magodo, to celebrate Ademuyiwa.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of his biography, ‘A Symphony of Grace and Favour: The Life and Legacy of Adejugbe Anthony Ademuyiwa.’
Described as a moving tribute to a life of quiet impact, the event featured worship music, tributes, and reflections on Prince Tony’s work as a teacher, choirmaster, preacher, and philanthropist.
A renowned University of Lagos music scholar, Prof. Albert Oikelome, who reviewed the book, called it “more than a biography—it’s a divine composition in book form.”
He said, “Every chapter sings. Tony has not only conducted choirs, he has conducted his life with spiritual alignment and unwavering integrity.”
According to him, youths should revisit history books to learn how to pattern their lives successfully.
“The culture of reading should be emphasised more than ever, because many youths no longer appreciate life’s essence,” he added.
Also, Mr Toyin Ajayi, Proprietor of Preston International School, Akure, stressed the importance of cognitive development to national building in an interview at the event.
“We are happy to witness the 60th birthday and book launch of Ademuyiwa, whom I met as an undergraduate in the 1980s at the University of Lagos.
“He has built a vast network and impacted many lives. As a young convert, he encouraged students to learn music,” Ajayi said.
Ajayi urged youths not to waste time on frivolities but to invest early in reading and living proper lives.
He noted that Ademuyiwa has given back to society for over 20 years, launching the Centre for the Disabled without relenting.
Ajayi praised Ademuyiwa as a philanthropist and one of the most incredible supporters of youth ambition, calling him an embodiment of gifts for the younger generation.
“Education enlightens the mind, but 21st-century learning should train the head—cognitive ability—the hands, and the heart, which teaches empathy and care for people and the environment,” he said.
He lamented that Nigeria’s education system focuses mainly on passing academic subjects, neglecting skills and moral training.
“Skill acquisition must be taken seriously. We cannot claim a workforce shortage with our population size if we channel resources into training,” Ajayi said.
He also urged better focus on entrepreneurship, crafts, and technological skills, alongside moral education, to raise leaders with integrity.
“Too many leaders are self-centred, pursuing personal gain from the public purse. Training of the heart will address this,” Ajayi added.
Prof. Patrick Yalokwu, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Crawford University, Igbesa, also stressed the importance of reading for national development.
“Youths should study the past and learn from successful figures. The future is bright for those who read and write,” he said.
He commended Ademuyiwa’s works, saying they had broadened his knowledge.
“Youths should not rely solely on social media or peers. They should listen to elders with valuable experience to share,” Yalokwu said.
He urged caution before engaging in life-threatening activities, stressing respect for elders and the need to revive reading culture.
“Reading is a skill and a character trait worth emulating. Studying great minds like Albert Einstein and Bertrand Russell can build strong character and reduce crime,” he added.
Chairman of the Board, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr Olutola Abolurin, praised Ademuyiwa’s passion for gospel music.
“I first knew him in the Apostolic Faith Church choir. Later, our shared love for music brought us closer,” Abolurin said.
He described the celebration as memorable, recalling his 70th birthday event where Ademuyiwa ministered.
“It is a pleasure to associate with someone so admirable, and I pray for him,” he said.