?In a major milestone for Nigeria’s international library diplomacy, the National Library of Nigeria (NLN) and the Qatar National Library (QNL) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 12, 2026, to deepen bilateral cooperation in knowledge exchange, research, digital technology, and cultural heritage preservation.

?The agreement was signed in Busan by Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi, National Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the NLN, and Huism Tan, Executive Director of the QNL, in the presence of Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut.

?This strategic partnership traces its roots to an official visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to the Qatar National Library in Doha. Inspired by QNL’s state-of-the-art facilities and innovative approach to cultural preservation, the First Lady highlighted the critical need to systematically document and protect Nigeria’s rich heritage for future generations.

?Building on that vision, Nigeria's Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, consolidated discussions by facilitating technical engagements between both institutions. Dr. Alausa championed the partnership as a vital pathway to upgrade Nigeria's library systems through modern digital services, staff training, and advanced preservation techniques, culminating in a delegation visit led by Prof. Anunobi to Doha.

?The delegation's visit laid the groundwork for technical collaboration across digital transformation, smart library systems, electronic resources, and automated archival management. The newly signed MoU formally establishes a long-term framework for mutual cooperation, covering joint research projects, publication sharing, cultural exchange, public engagement programs, and joint content development.

?A core focus of the agreement centers on digital preservation. Nigeria holds vast collections of historical manuscripts, indigenous knowledge, photographs, and official records. Partnering with QNL allows Nigeria to leverage cutting-edge preservation technologies and technical expertise to safeguard the nation's collective memory in digital formats.

?The presence of Ambassador Nora Ladi Daduut highlights the growing strategic importance of cultural and intellectual diplomacy. Beyond conventional diplomatic channels, partnerships between national libraries strengthen international ties, expand access to education, and protect shared history.

?From initial discussions in Doha to the formal signing in Busan, this MoU marks a transformative step for the National Library of Nigeria as it modernizes its operations, while offering Qatar National Library a vital bridge to engage with Nigeria’s dynamic cultural and intellectual heritage.