‘Read to Lead’ Campaign Launched to Boost Literacy, Empower Underserved Children

 

The Gbemisola Yussuff Foundation (GYF) has launched a nationwide literacy initiative, Read to Lead, aimed at promoting a culture of reading among children in underserved communities.

At the campaign’s inauguration in Abuja, the foundation’s founder, Aisha Yussuff, emphasized the importance of reading as a foundation for leadership and lifelong learning.

“Many children lack access to quality education, especially in underserved areas. This campaign is my way of giving back and bridging that gap,” Yussuff said. “If you can’t read, you can’t lead. These children are the future—we must invest in them.”

The Read to Lead campaign includes several key initiatives: upgrading school libraries, donating books, organizing storytelling sessions, and hosting reading competitions to foster literacy and curiosity in children.

Beyond books, Yussuff announced plans to establish ICT and Artificial Intelligence learning hubs to equip children with digital skills, including coding and global communication.

“We’re promoting physical reading while also preparing children for the digital age,” she said. “Through these hubs, they can learn essential tech skills and communicate effectively, regardless of Nigeria’s linguistic diversity.”

Yussuff stressed the campaign’s broader goal of fostering national unity through improved English literacy.

Speaking at the event, Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Lanre Issa-Onilu—represented by Dr. Sherifat Adegbesan—commended the initiative, describing it as critical to nurturing creativity and curiosity in children.

“Reading isn’t just academic—it opens up the world to children, especially those in remote areas,” Adegbesan said.

Similarly, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Prof. Sonny Echono—represented by Muhammad Khalil—highlighted the campaign’s value in shaping informed, competitive youth.

“Early reading fosters awareness and understanding. It’s like catching a fish in the morning—instill the habit early, and it lasts for life,” he said.

Mrs. Racheal Nebo, Deputy Director at the National Library of Nigeria, praised the campaign, calling it a movement that should resonate across rural and urban communities.

“This is more than a campaign—it’s a call to action for all Nigerians to embrace reading,” she said.

The Read to Lead campaign aims to spark a nationwide culture of reading, equipping children with the tools they need to lead, learn, and thrive.