We’ve Raised N20.4bn for National Library – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Snubs Peter Obi’s ‘We Are Finished’ Remark

Oluremi Tinubu says N20.4bn raised for the National Library; Peter Obi calls it a shame Nigeria must beg for knowledge.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday revealed that her foundation has so far raised N20.4 billion to fund the construction of the National Library in Abuja.

Speaking at the State House Banquet Hall, Mrs. Tinubu explained that the library project, which began during the administration of former President Shehu Shagari but was later abandoned, inspired her fundraising drive.

She recalled earlier personal efforts, including raising N50 million on her 44th birthday and N200 million on her 50th birthday, to support initiatives such as sickle cell disease programs and schools in Nigeria and Liberia.

Quoting from the Book of Isaiah, the First Lady expressed her vision of building a Nigeria that would attract global admiration, stressing that education remains central to national progress.

However, former Anambra governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, sharply criticised the development.

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“We Are Finished! I join millions in wishing Her Excellency, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, a happy birthday. But I was struck by irony reading her request—that instead of cakes or newspaper adverts, Nigerians should donate to complete the National Library. On the surface, it is noble. But beneath it lies an indictment of our nation,” Obi said.

He faulted Nigeria’s reliance on charity to fund critical infrastructure while billions are spent on jets, yachts, mansions, and frivolous trips abroad.

“What kind of country must beg for charity to build the very temple of knowledge? Serious nations treat libraries as sacred; here we reduce them to birthday tokens. Mrs Tinubu is right that education is our most enduring legacy. Yet to know this and still prioritise vanity is shocking and tragic,” Obi added.

The National Library project is expected to resume with the newly raised funds as pressure mounts on government to prioritise education and intellectual infrastructure.