First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has successfully gathered more than N20 billion in contributions as part of a fundraising campaign tied to her 65th birthday celebration. The funds aim to support the long-awaited completion of the National Library project.
Earlier this September, the First Lady made an appeal to Nigerians, urging them to turn traditional birthday gifts into donations for this important cause. Choosing to dedicate her birthday to philanthropy rather than extravagance, she described the project as deeply personal and meaningful.
The fundraising drive, overseen by the Federal Ministry of Education through the “Oluremi at 65 Education Fund”, seeks to finalize the National Library, a project whose inception dates back to the Shehu Shagari administration but remains unfinished. The First Lady recalled how the library profoundly influenced her during her youth, shaping her love for learning and personal growth.
At a press briefing at the Presidential Villa, she expressed disappointment that the education ministry has been unable to complete the library over the decades. She encouraged citizens to adopt a spirit of service, by making reference to a famous quote from a former American President about contributing to one’s country rather than expecting favors.
Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country
The First Lady’s appeal has not only mobilized financial support but also rekindled a national conversation on investment in knowledge infrastructure.
The Federal Ministry of Education plans to expedite the library’s completion once the funds are fully secured, with the First Lady expressing gratitude and optimism for the future.
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