NLA Kano and Digital Bridge Institute Forge Strategic Partnership for Digital Capacity Building

In a significant step towards enhancing digital literacy and professional development among librarians, the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), Kano Chapter, has initiated a strategic partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), Northwest Zonal Office, Kano.

The collaboration is aimed at boosting digital capacity and equipping librarians with essential ICT skills for more effective service delivery in the digital age.

The partnership was formalized during a courtesy visit by the Executive Committee (Exco) of NLA Kano to the DBI office, a training arm of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

DBI is renowned for its specialized programs in information and communication technology (ICT), training, research, and digital innovation across Nigeria.

Led by Chairman Malam Nazir Muhammad, the NLA Kano delegation held discussions with the Head of the Institute, Alhaji Sani Tsoho Yakawada, focusing on potential areas of collaboration.

These include organizing workshops, seminars, and capacity-building programs specifically tailored for librarians.

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our objective of empowering librarians through consistent training and professional development,” said Malam Nazir Muhammad.

“DBI’s mandate to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria resonates with our goal to reposition libraries as knowledge and digital resource hubs in today’s information-driven society.”

In his response, Alhaji Sani Tsoho Yakawada, who welcomed the NLA team along with his staff, expressed strong support for the initiative.
He commended the Association’s efforts in driving innovation within the library sector and assured the delegation of DBI’s full cooperation in realizing the outlined objectives.

“The Digital Bridge Institute is fully committed to collaborations that promote digital inclusivity and capacity development,”

Yakawada stated. “We are pleased to support NLA Kano in this important journey of digital transformation.”

The new partnership is expected to yield meaningful outcomes, particularly in enhancing the digital competencies of librarians and strengthening the delivery of modern library services across educational and public institutions.

As both institutions look ahead to formalizing training schedules and program content, stakeholders in the education and information management sectors have welcomed the development as a timely response to the increasing need for digital skills in library management and service provision.