Japan Encourages Nigerian Youth to Engage Globally and Donates 183 Books to UNIMAID

The Ambassador of Japan has stated that the future of Nigeria rests with its youth, emphasizing the importance of global engagement during a book donation ceremony.

The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, has urged Nigerian youth to pursue self-development, emphasizing that: “The future of Nigeria lies in its youth, and their ability to engage with the world is crucial.”

During the weekend, at the handover of books donated by the Tokyo Foundation with the generous support of the Nippon Foundation to the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) in Abuja, the envoy addressed the university delegation, stating: “We believe that books are powerful tools for learning and discovery, and we are honoured to contribute to the excellent academic resources at your university.” 

The Ambassador noted that the impressive collection of 183 books, made possible through the visionary ‘Read Japan Project,’ an initiative of the Tokyo Foundation with the generous support of the Nippon Foundation, was in recognition of “our deep and growing partnership with the University of Maiduguri.”

He expressed, “Our utmost aspiration is that this varied collection will ignite an even greater curiosity about Japan in your intelligent and eager students.” The destiny of Nigeria rests in the hands of its youth, and their capacity to connect with the global community is vital. Japan possesses a profound history of surmounting obstacles to attain advancement, and we trust that the insights contained in these pages will serve as a valuable resource.

“We eagerly anticipate our ongoing partnership with the University of Maiduguri and are excited to see the remarkable accomplishments your students will attain.”

Yohei Sasakawa, the Honorary Chair of The Nippon Foundation, expressed, “We are pleased to donate books that will help promote understanding about Japan to the University of Maiduguri.” We extend our gratitude to everyone who collaborated with us to make this donation a reality.

Sasakawa, as conveyed by Ms. Shimada Mami, stated: “At the University of Maiduguri, we recognize that the promotion of Japanese culture has been progressing steadily, particularly with the founding of the Japanese cultural club “NARUTO” on campus in 2024, led by Prof. Mohammed Dauda.” We hold the university’s initiatives to promote understanding and interest in Japan among students and faculty in high regard, and we are genuinely delighted that these efforts are contributing to the enhancement of mutual understanding and amicable relations between our two nations.

He stated that: “The Nippon Foundation is advancing the Read Japan Project with the aim of offering quality information about Japan to those interested in the country.” So far, we have contributed approximately 98,000 books to over 1,400 libraries and research institutions across 150 countries globally. We are delighted to welcome the University of Maiduguri to this esteemed group of recipients today.

He stated, “The Nippon Foundation will further expand the selection of books we donate to satisfy the intellectual curiosity of those interested in Japan,” and added, “It will please us greatly if young and aspiring individuals in Nigeria make the best use of these books, not only to deepen their interest in and understanding of Japan but also to serve as a bridge between our two countries.”

Prof. Mohammed Mele, the Vice Chancellor of the university, expressed gratitude to the Nippon Foundation for its remarkable generosity and to the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria while taking custody of the books. 

He stated: “This collection of books on Japanese culture, history, and innovation will unlock new avenues of understanding and exploration for our students, inspiring them to connect with the world in fresh and significant ways.” 

“This donation represents the strengthening bond between the University of Maiduguri and Japan. We are dedicated to enhancing this to advance our partnership. I am excited to share that we will soon establish a dedicated Japanese Corner in the Ramat Library.

He observed that the formation of the Japanese Culture Club (NJCC) at the university has led to a significant increase in student interest in the Japanese language, culture, and traditions, indicating the strong connections being forged between our cultures. He remarked, “This donation will certainly ignite their passion and curiosity for years ahead.”

He expressed confidence that the institution is dedicated to maximizing these resources and anticipates a long and successful partnership.