Kano State Government has dismissed claims circulating on social media that the historic Murtala Muhammed Library has been abandoned by the present administration, insisting that the facility is currently undergoing renovation and modernization.
In a statement issued on Monday by the state Commissioner of the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government described the viral video alleging neglect of the library as misleading, explaining that the congestion seen in parts of the facility was a result of ongoing rehabilitation work.
According to the statement, the state government had awarded a renovation contract to Global Firm Limited as part of efforts to restore the library and transform it into a modern centre for learning, research and intellectual development.
The government explained that during the renovation process, furniture, bookshelves and other materials were removed from the upper section of the library to allow for rehabilitation of the reading rooms.
The items were temporarily relocated downstairs, creating the condition captured in the viral video.
However, the government expressed dissatisfaction over the contractor’s failure to sustain the pace of work, accusing the company of abandoning the project site.
It stated that necessary measures were being taken against the contractor in line with contractual agreements and due process, stressing that the administration would not tolerate negligence or delays capable of undermining projects aimed at improving educational infrastructure in the state.
The administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf reaffirmed its commitment to completing the renovation and upgrading the library to international standards.
The government said that upon completion, the library would feature modern facilities, improved reading halls, digital research resources and a more conducive environment for students, researchers, academics and the general public.
It also highlighted achievements recorded in the education sector since the administration assumed office, including the declaration of a state of emergency on education, increased budgetary allocation to the sector, rehabilitation of public schools, payment of examination fees for indigent students, distribution of instructional materials and investments in higher institutions and libraries.
The government urged residents to disregard what it described as false narratives surrounding the library project and advised members of the public to verify information before sharing content capable of causing misunderstanding.
It further reassured residents of its commitment to revitalizing educational institutions and promoting academic excellence across the state.
