The emergence of digital technologies and the internet has revolutionized the publishing industry globally. E-publishing, also known as electronic publishing, has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional print publishing. 

Nigeria, like many other African countries, has embraced e-publishing as a means of promoting literacy, expanding readership and building capacity in the publishing industry. In this article, we will examine the progression of e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria.

E-publishing capacity building in Nigeria has been driven by a number of factors. The first and perhaps most significant factor is the growing demand for electronic content among Nigerian readers. 

The rise of mobile devices, affordable internet access, and the convenience of reading on electronic devices have contributed to this demand. In response to this demand, many Nigerian publishers have begun to invest in e-publishing platforms and digital content creation.

One of the earliest examples of e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria can be traced back to the early 2000s, when the first Nigerian online bookstores emerged. These online bookstores, such as the defunct Kasuwa.com, offered a range of e-books in various formats, including PDF, ePub, and Mobipocket. While the selection of e-books was limited, these early online bookstores paved the way for the development of e-publishing in Nigeria.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Nigerian publishers who are investing in e-publishing platforms. Many publishers have set up their own e-publishing platforms, while others have partnered with digital content aggregators like OkadaBooks and Publiseer. These platforms provide a range of digital content, including e-books, audio books, and interactive content.

The growth of e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria has been supported by a number of initiatives by the Nigerian government, international organizations, and private sector stakeholders. In 2012, the Nigerian government launched the National Book Development Fund (NBDF) to support the development of the book publishing industry, including e-publishing. The NBDF provides funding for research and development, training, and infrastructure development.

International organizations such as the African Publishers Network (APNET) and the International Publishers Association (IPA) have also played a role in e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria. These organizations have provided funding, training, and networking opportunities for Nigerian publishers to develop their e-publishing capabilities.

Private sector stakeholders, including telecommunications companies and banks, have also contributed to the development of e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria. Companies such as MTN Nigeria and Glo have partnered with publishers to provide digital content to their customers, while banks such as Guaranty Trust Bank have launched their own e-publishing platforms to promote literacy and support the growth of the publishing industry.

E-publishing capacity building in Nigeria has also been supported by the growth of literary festivals and book fairs. These events provide a platform for publishers, writers, and readers to network, showcase their work, and discuss issues related to the publishing industry. Events such as the Lagos International Poetry Festival and the Ake Arts and Book Festival have become important platforms for promoting e-publishing in Nigeria.

Despite the progress made in e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria, there are still a number of challenges that need to be addressed. One of the most significant challenges is the issue of digital piracy. Many Nigerian e-books are pirated and distributed illegally, leading to a loss of revenue for publishers and discouraging investment in e-publishing. This problem can be addressed through stronger copyright laws and enforcement.

Another challenge is the lack of awareness among Nigerian readers about the availability of e-books and the benefits of e-publishing. Many readers still prefer print books, and there is a need for more education and marketing to promote the advantages of e-books, such as affordability, accessibility, and portability.

In conclusion, e-publishing capacity building in Nigeria has made significant progress in recent years, driven by the growing demand for electronic content among Nigerian readers, supported by government initiatives, international organizations, and private sector stakeholders. 

The emergence of e-publishing platforms, digital content aggregators, and literary festivals has created new opportunities for Nigerian publishers to reach a wider audience and promote literacy. 

However, challenges such as digital piracy and a lack of awareness among readers about the benefits of e-publishing need to be addressed to ensure sustainable growth and development of the e-publishing industry in Nigeria.