The Nigerian Library Association (NLA), in collaboration with Library Aid Africa (LAA), on April, 2026, successfully hosted a webinar titled “Emerging Library Tech Skills for Library Professionals,” attracting active participation from library and information professionals across Nigeria and beyond.
The virtual event, formally commenced with a welcome address by Sylvester Ebhonu, the National Public Relations Officer of the association. He introduced the session as the first in a three-part webinar series aimed at building momentum toward the Association’s 64th Annual National Conference, scheduled for 2026 in Minna.
President Calls for Continuous Skills Development
In his opening remarks, the President of the NLA, Dr. Lawal Umar, FNLA stressed the importance of continuous professional development in today’s rapidly evolving digital information environment.
He commended the strategic partnership with Library Aid Africa and emphasized that librarians must embrace emerging technologies to remain relevant and effective in service delivery.
Dr. Umar also highlighted upcoming engagements, including the 2026 national conference in Minna, and encouraged members to actively participate in the capacity-building programmes lined up by the Association.
Strategic Collaboration and Programme Highlights
The session was co-anchored by Peace Agada, who introduced Library Aid Africa’s flagship initiatives, including the Young African Library Leaders Programme and the Library Internet Governance Ambassadors Programme. Both initiatives are designed to strengthen leadership capacity and digital competence among African librarians.
Redefining Competence in the Digital Era
The webinar featured keynote presentations by seasoned professionals, including Professor Adefunke S. Ebijuwa of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and Segun Aletogbe.
Professor Ebijuwa delivered a compelling presentation, noting that traditional library training alone is no longer sufficient in the modern era. She advocated for the development of advanced competencies such as digital literacy, data management, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence applications.
She further encouraged library professionals to embrace self-driven learning, participate in collaborative knowledge networks, and advocate for curriculum reforms that reflect current technological realities.
According to her, relevance in today’s knowledge economy depends on adaptability, innovation, and technical proficiency.
Practical Pathways to Tech Integration
In a practical session, Segun Aletogbe shared findings from research conducted across 19 African countries, identifying critical technology skills for modern librarians. These include software engineering, data analysis, digital marketing, artificial intelligence, and product design.
He illustrated real-world application through the case of a Liberian librarian who transitioned into software engineering and applied those skills to improve library services.
Segun also introduced the Library Ex Africa Programme, a one-year structured training initiative focused on digital transformation skills. The programme offers a blended learning model featuring self-paced modules, live facilitator sessions, flexible payment options, and a 30 percent discount for NLA members. Discount Code: LXA2026LA001
Interactive Engagement and Professional Guidance
The interactive question-and-answer session, moderated by Damilare, addressed issues relating to the practical relevance of tech training programmes, scholarship opportunities, and academic pathways for professionals transitioning into Library and Information Science from IT backgrounds.
Responding to participants, Segun explained that the courses are designed with practical, library-centred applications, while noting that financial support is currently limited to discounted access.
Professor Ebijuwa added that professionals from IT-related fields seeking doctoral studies in Library and Information Science must first obtain a master’s degree in the discipline before progressing to PhD level.
Closing Remarks
The webinar recorded strong attendance and vibrant engagement, with participants contributing actively throughout the session. Despite initial technical interruptions, the programme maintained high momentum and concluded successfully with a virtual group photograph.
In his closing remarks, Sylvester Ebhonu thanked the presenters, co-hosts, and participants for their resilience and active involvement. He reaffirmed the NLA’s commitment to continuous professional development and announced upcoming events, including:
- A May virtual workshop on practical tools for public relations and digital communication
- A June international webinar featuring global speakers
He also reminded participants who submitted abstracts for the Minna 2026 Conference to complete payment of processing fees and submit full papers promptly.