Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has announced that approximately ₦20 billion has been raised towards the completion of the National Library project.
Speaking on Tuesday during a lunch with State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa to mark her 65th birthday, Senator Tinubu described the library project as her chosen legacy gift to the nation.
The First Lady explained that instead of receiving traditional birthday gifts such as cakes, presents, or advertisements, she requested that Nigerians channel their goodwill into funding the library’s completion.
Addressing speculation about political motives behind the initiative, Senator Tinubu dismissed such claims, emphasizing that her sole motivation was service to the country. “I want to clear the air about some people saying it has a political undertone. What is wrong in doing well?” she said.
Reflecting on her decision to support the National Library, the First Lady recounted her 12 years in the Senate, where she served on the Committee on Education, and highlighted her humble upbringing, which fostered an appreciation for libraries. “From a humble background, the library played a role in my life,” she said. “That’s why I thought this is a worthy cause.”
Senator Tinubu also reiterated her belief in the centrality of education to national development and pledged to continue supporting projects that benefit future generations. The funds for the library have been mobilized through the Oluremi @65 Education Fund.
