By Waziri Isa Adam
The University of Maiduguri recently received a significant donation of 183 books from the Japanese government as part of the “Read Japan Project”.
The donation ceremony, which took place on August 2, 2025, was attended by Ambassador Suzuki Hideo, who presented the books on behalf of the Japanese government, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele, and other university officials.
Ambassador Suzuki described the books as “powerful tools for learning and discovery” and praised the deep partnership between Japan and the University of Maiduguri. He also highlighted the “NARUTO” Japanese Culture Club as a “wonderful bridge between our cultures”, noting its vibrant activities and contributions to promoting Japanese culture in Nigeria.
The books were donated as part of the “Read Japan Project”, a initiative facilitated by the Tokyo Foundation and the Nippon Foundation to support educational development and promote cultural ties between Japan and Nigeria. The project aims to provide access to quality educational resources and promote cross-cultural understanding between the two countries.
In his remarks, the Vice-chancellor, Prof Mohammed Laminu Mele, welcomed the donation and plans to utilize the books to support learning and research.
Professor Mele expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for the donation and highlighted the importance of the partnership between the two countries.
In a significant development, the Vice-Chancellor announced that a dedicated Japanese Corner will be established in the university’s Ramat Library to house the donated books and promote Japanese studies and cultural appreciation. This initiative is expected to further strengthen the bond between Japan and Nigeria and promote cultural exchange between the two countries.
