The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, announced that the National Library fund has secured approximately N20.4 billion in donations since its launch on 18 September. The fundraising initiative, unveiled ahead of her 65th birthday on 21 September, aims to complete the long‑abandoned National Library headquarters in Abuja. Mrs Tinubu described the library project as a deeply personal endeavor that reflects her lifelong passion for education and learning. She emphasized that the effort is a national one, led by the Federal Ministry of Education under the “Oluremi at 65 Education Fund,” with the Minister of Education and the Chief Librarian of the Federation signatories to the account to ensure transparency and accountability.
The First Lady expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have contributed to the fund, urging them to donate instead of sending birthday gifts or placing congratulatory newspaper adverts. She recounted how libraries shaped her early years, fostering curiosity and personal development, and reaffirmed her belief in the transformative power of books. Mrs Tinubu has a history of philanthropic work, especially in education and public health. She recalled raising ₦50 million for the National Sickle Cell Foundation Center on her 45th birthday and ₦200 million for the New Era Foundation and other charities on her 50th birthday.
The National Library project was first proposed in 1981, with construction beginning in 2006. By 2023, only 44 percent of the work had been completed, and cost estimates for completion range between N49.6 billion and N120 billion. Located in Abuja, the site is seen as a critical hub for education and youth engagement. The Federal Government has mandated the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to resume funding and restart construction. The Minister of Education confirmed that construction would resume on 1 June, following detailed site assessments.
The Nigerian Library Association has renewed its call for the urgent completion of the library, citing its importance to national education, research, and cultural preservation. The funds raised so far will contribute significantly to finishing the National Library headquarters, which is expected to serve as a national treasure for generations to come. With the support of well‑meaning Nigerians, including politicians and captains of industry, the project is poised to make progress, reinforcing the country’s commitment to education and learning.
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