The desire for national unity and the training of Nigerian youth towards achieving the laudable objective of development through life long learning and for national other integration among considerations are clearly articulated in the National Policy on Education (I998), Considering that the primary school is the foundation of education. this paper examines the role
that reading at this level can play in achieving youth development and national integration. The paper begins with an examination of literacy in Nigeria. defines the concept of youth development and national integration. It also discusses how literacy can be used to enhance unity amongst the youths. Finally, the paper suggests the various strategies to achieve youth development and national integration in Nigeria.