Access is the key to knowledge, power and development

Freedom of information is critical in unlocking development in Nigeria, according to Thomas More Law School lecturer Kunle Ola.

Access to information is close to the heart of Dr Ola who wrote Open Access to Knowledge: A Framework for Developing Countries, a publication which proposes a framework to engender access to knowledge and fast-track development in Nigeria and other developing countries.

The book is an important text for scholars and researchers interested in open access to knowledge on the continent and globally.

Inspired to write the book due to his inability to access journal articles while undertaking his Master’s degree, the author argued that the information highway is full of useful but often inaccessible information.

“Since information is power, information becomes key to development,” Dr Ola said. “If Nigeria will attain development, access is a necessity.”

The book was launched in September at a function hosted by the Australian High Commission in Abuja Nigeria.

It was reviewed by the first professor of intellectual property law in Nigeria Professor Adebambo Adewopo who noted the book addresses the dearth of resources in the access to knowledge space.

“Fundamentally, the concept of open access, the theme of this important book, is anchored in the idea and ideal of access phenomenon and its dynamics in the current global era,” Professor Adewopo said.

“As an important contribution to existing knowledge in the field, the author proffered guidelines and road maps for developing an open access framework in Nigeria. He explained that it would provide the platform for active participation in the global knowledge community and foster dynamic exchange of information by being connected to the global library.”

The book presentation was attended by dignitaries from the diplomatic corps, especially from the Australian High Commission in Abuja, the academia, the legal profession, the creative industries, friends, associates and family of the author.