The Kano State Government has noted with concern a viral video circulating on social media alleging that the historic Murtala Muhammed Library has been abandoned by the present administration.
The Government wishes to categorically clarify that the library has not been abandoned. Rather, the facility is currently undergoing a comprehensive renovation and modernization process aimed at restoring its lost glory and transforming it into a modern resource centre of learning, research and intellectual development.
As part of the ongoing intervention, the Kano State Government awarded a contract to Global Firm Limited for the renovation of the library. In the course of commencing the work, the contractor removed furniture, bookshelves and other materials from the upstairs section of the library in order to clear the reading room for rehabilitation works. These materials were temporarily moved downstairs, thereby creating the congestion seen in the viral video.
However, the Government has discovered with dissatisfaction that the contractor has failed to sustain the pace of the work and subsequently abandoned the project site. Consequently, appropriate measures are being taken against the contractor in line with the contractual obligations and due process. The Government will not tolerate negligence or delays capable of undermining projects designed to improve public infrastructure and educational development in the state.
The administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf remains fully committed to the renovation, rehabilitation and modernization of the library to meet contemporary and international standards. Upon completion, the library will be equipped with modern facilities, improved reading halls, digital research resources and a more conducive environment accessible to students, researchers, academics and the general public.
Education continues to remain one of the cardinal priorities of the present administration. Since assumption of office, the government has recorded remarkable achievements in the education sector, including the declaration of a state of emergency on education, allocation of the highest Budget, rehabilitation of public schools, payment of examination fees for indigent students, distribution of instructional materials, recruitment efforts aimed at improving teaching quality, as well as renewed investment in higher institutions and libraries across the state.
The Government therefore calls on members of the public to disregard the misleading narratives suggesting the deliberate abandonment of the library project. Citizens are encouraged to always verify information before sharing content capable of creating unnecessary misunderstanding and discomfort among the public.
The Kano State Government reassures residents of its unwavering commitment towards continuation of revitalizing educational institutions and providing an enabling environment for learning and academic excellence in the state.