The Kano State Government has clarified that the historic Murtala Muhammed Library has not been abandoned, contrary to claims circulating in a viral social media video, but is currently undergoing renovation and modernization aimed at restoring the facility to international standards.
In a statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government explained that the library is presently under a comprehensive rehabilitation process designed to transform it into a modern centre for learning, research and intellectual development.
According to the statement, the Kano State Government awarded the renovation contract to Global Firm Limited. During the commencement of the project, furniture, bookshelves and other materials were removed from the upper section of the library and temporarily relocated downstairs to allow renovation work to continue in the reading halls.
The government, however, expressed dissatisfaction over the contractor’s failure to maintain the pace of work, accusing the company of abandoning the project site after initial activities commenced.
It stated that necessary measures are already being taken against the contractor in line with contractual agreements and due process, stressing that the administration would not tolerate negligence capable of delaying projects meant to improve public infrastructure and educational development.
The government reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf towards completing the project, noting that the renovated library would feature modern reading halls, digital research facilities and a more conducive learning environment for students, researchers, academics and the general public.
The statement further highlighted several achievements recorded by the administration in the education sector since assuming office, including the declaration of a state of emergency on education, rehabilitation of schools, payment of examination fees for indigent students, distribution of instructional materials and renewed investments in higher institutions and libraries across the state.
The government called on members of the public to disregard what it described as misleading narratives surrounding the library project and urged citizens to verify information before sharing content capable of creating public misunderstanding.
It also reassured residents of its continued commitment to revitalizing educational institutions and promoting academic excellence throughout Kano State.
