Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced that more than ₦20 billion has been raised so far to fund the long-delayed National Library project in Abuja.
Speaking to State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Mrs. Tinubu revealed that the fundraising drive was tied to her 65th birthday celebration on September 21, 2025.
Instead of receiving personal gifts or hosting an elaborate party, she appealed to friends, well-wishers, and Nigerians at large to channel their goodwill into the “Oluremi at 65 Education Fund.” The initiative, coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Education, aims to finally complete the library, a project that has lingered since the era of President Shehu Shagari.
“The completion of the National Library will be a great birthday gift for me,” the First Lady said, describing the project as deeply personal and close to her heart.
Recalling her years as a senator on the Senate Committee on Education, Mrs. Tinubu expressed disappointment that successive administrations struggled to complete the landmark project. She highlighted the importance of libraries in shaping young Nigerians, noting how vital such institutions were during her formative years.
On concerns and criticisms surrounding her initiative, the First Lady urged Nigerians to embrace a culture of service and sacrifice. Quoting a former American president, she said:
“Do not ask what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”
Mrs. Tinubu confirmed that donations continue to flow in, with the ₦20 billion milestone marking just the beginning of renewed momentum to deliver the long-overdue National Library for Nigeria.
