Remi Tinubu: N20.4bn Raised for National Library Project

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu yesterday said over N20.4 billion has been raised for the completion of the National Library of Nigeria.

She spoke at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, while giving an update on the “Oluremi@65 Education Fund”, launched on September 18.

According to her, contributions have continued to flow in since the fund was unveiled to mark her 65th birthday.

“So far, we have raised N20.4 billion since this fund launched last week, and more are still coming,” she said.

On September 1, the First Lady had appealed to well-wishers to channel birthday gifts and greetings into donations for the library project, describing it as the best present she could receive.

“I will spend my birthday dedicated to God for all His blessings in my life and having a quiet birthday. I appeal to those who would like to send cards, cakes, flowers, or gifts to instead send funds to the designated account for the National Library project,” she said.

The National Library, located between the National Mosque and the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja, has been one of the country’s longest-delayed projects.

Originally awarded in 2006 at a cost of N8.59 billion, it was expected to be completed within two years. But funding shortfalls stalled the project, with the Federal Government later disclosing that over N50 billion would be required to finish it.

In 2022, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) released N15 billion as the first tranche for its completion.

The project, initiated in 1981, has long stood as a symbol of stalled infrastructure.

With the latest donations championed by the First Lady, hopes are high that the long-awaited edifice will soon be completed.