………As construction resumes after nearly 12 years; commends First Lady’s intervention in actualising landmark national project.
The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s education sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring that the Federal Government will complete the long-abandoned National Library of Nigeria (NLN) project in Abuja within 18 months, following the resumption of construction activities after nearly 12 years of inactivity.
Dr. Alausa gave the assurance on Thursday, November 5, 2026, during a familiarisation tour of the construction site ahead of the formal return-to-site ceremony scheduled for November 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m to be unveiled by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The Minister described the resumption as a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s determination to deliver the strategic national project. He recalled that construction commenced in 2006 with an initial two-year completion target but was abandoned in 2014, leaving the project unattended for almost 12 years.
He commended President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment, strategic support and provision of the necessary funding to revive the project, describing its completion as part of the administration’s broader efforts to transform educational infrastructure and strengthen the nation’s knowledge economy. He also expressed profound appreciation to the First Lady for her personal intervention and efforts in mobilising additional resources towards actualising the project.
According to the Minister, the First Lady’s vision was inspired by her exposure to the world-class Qatar National Library, reinforcing the ambition to establish a modern institution that preserves Nigeria’s heritage and expands access to knowledge.
Dr. Alausa stressed that the Federal Government was committed to ensuring uninterrupted construction until completion, charging contractors, consultants and supervising officials to maintain quality standards, collaborate effectively and adhere strictly to the approved 18-month timeline.
He explained that the facility was designed to transcend the traditional concept of a library, incorporating modern learning facilities, an auditorium, data centre, specialised learning spaces and contemporary library services. He challenged the National Library management to position it as a leading centre for intellectual, cultural and educational activities capable of attracting researchers, students, tourists and international conferences.
He further emphasised the need for inclusive facilities that would accommodate children, adults and persons with disabilities, particularly those with visual and hearing impairments. He noted that the institution would serve as a national centre for preserving Nigeria’s history, culture and intellectual heritage while advancing education and human capital development.
The Minister commended Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) for maintaining and securing the site during the period of abandonment, thereby preventing vandalism and encroachment. He also appreciated the National Library management, consultants, contractors and other stakeholders for their cooperation.
Earlier, the Director overseeing the office of Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Mrs. Folake Olatunji-Davis, disclosed that RCC was mobilised to site on October 21, 2026, while an inspection team visited on October 29 to assess preparedness and ongoing activities.
She also expressed satisfaction with the commencement of work and assured that the Ministry would sustain close monitoring to ensure compliance with the approved work plan and delivery schedule.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of RCC, Engr. Nader Yusuf, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to completing the project within the agreed timeframe. He disclosed that site clearing, internal preparations and scaffolding installation had commenced, alongside plans to accelerate external and internal construction works. He added that arrangements were underway for specialised installations, including auditorium fittings, library shelving and data centre equipment.
Similarly, the Principal Partner of Odeleye International Associates, Arc. Obioma C. Opoko, confirmed that the project implementation schedule and milestones had been developed and shared with stakeholders, assuring the Ministry of effective supervision and strict adherence to the approved programme.
Also speaking, the Head of Havilah Merchant Nigeria Limited, Akogun Lanre Adesuyi, confirmed that the relevant contractors, lead consultants and their teams had been mobilised, with preliminary preparations and coordination of furnishing and specialised installations already underway.
The familiarisation tour enabled the Minister, the Acting Permanent Secretary and senior Ministry officials to inspect ongoing activities, engage project stakeholders and assess readiness for the formal return-to-site ceremony.
The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated that the successful completion of the National Library aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the administration’s commitment to strengthening knowledge preservation, promoting reading culture and advancing Nigeria’s educational development.
Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations
