Former Kano Library Board Secretary Appeals Against Reported Handover of Murtala Muhammad Library

A former Secretary of the Kano State Library Board, Dalha Isah Fagge, has appealed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to reconsider the reported plan to hand over the Murtala Muhammad Library Complex in Kano to Northwest University.

Fagge said the proposed handover had raised serious concerns because the complex represents an important part of Kano State’s institutional and intellectual history.

According to him, the project dates back to 1975 and was originally designed to include a library, an information centre, an open-air theatre and an amphitheatre. However, only the library was eventually completed.

He recalled that in 1999, then-Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso pledged to complete the abandoned project. An appeal fund was subsequently launched, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo served as the chief launcher.

Fagge said staff of the library also contributed ₦75,000 towards the project, while a Book Aid Week organised in 2000 attracted donations of books from members of the public.

He explained that the complex later became an important centre for library development in Kano. It hosted seminars, workshops and other intellectual activities and received support from organisations and individuals, including the US Embassy, University of North Texas, MacArthur Foundation and other development partners.

Fagge also noted that former businessman Aliko Dangote donated 100 computers, which helped the library begin its automation programme.

He urged Governor Yusuf to make any decision about the complex openly and transparently, particularly because many individuals and organisations had contributed to its development.

“If the reported handover is being considered, I respectfully appeal to the governor to reconsider,” Fagge said, adding that any reasons for the decision should be explained to members of the public.

He stressed that the Murtala Muhammad Library Complex should be regarded not merely as government property, but as an institution built through the contributions, sacrifices and support of generations of Kano residents and development partners.

Fagge urged the state government to ensure that whatever decision is taken protects the historical and educational significance of the complex.