Oyo — Former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd.), yesterday commissoned a library valued at about N150 million, which he donated to the Ajayi Crowther University (owned by the Anglican Church), in the ancient city of Oyo, Oyo State.

The retired general, who was accompanied to the university by his wife, Senator Daisy Danjuma, described the project as a payback to the Anglican community from where he has benefitted spiritually and the nation in general, stressing that it was also a way of giving back to the society.

He thanked the school management for executing the project without delay.

Danjuma's gesture was well received by the Primate of the Anglican Communion, Rev. Peter Akinola, and Primate-elect, Rev. Nicholas Okoh, both of whom expressed gratitude to the former minister for heeding to their call.

Speaking on the event, Akinnola said Danjuma's goodwill should be encouraged and should also serve as an example to other well-to-do Nigerians as a means of assisting the government in the development of the nation's educational sector.

The library, which has the capacity of accommodating 1,000 readers, has online facilities to access any library in the world. Students who spoke to LEADERSHIP said the library would increase their reading ability and promote the reading culture in the school generally.

A student, Dalani Olawaye, said he has been encouraged by General Danjuma's gesture to give back to the society.

According to him, "I am really surprised that a man could single-handedly fund this type of project even at this time of economic recession. It shows how much love he has for education."

Also acknowledging the ex-minister's gesture, a parent, Chief Olumide Adeolu said, "The library complex donated by General Danjuma is the greatest gift a man could give to youths. This library is one of the best in the country. Looking at the structure you will be encouraged to read."