Remi Tinubu, Nigeria’s first lady, has announced that she will dedicate her 65th birthday, which is on September 21, to the completion of the National Library project.

Remi said in a social media video that she planned to spend the day quietly in appreciation to God and asked well-wishers to send presents and messages to the cause.

The first lady explained that her passion for education influenced her decision to dedicate her birthday to the project.

“I will be turning 65 years old on the 21st September and this happens to be a Sunday. This is why I have decided to dedicate the day to God for all His blessings in my life by having a quiet birthday,” she said.

Remi asked friends and supporters who wanted to send cards, cakes, flowers, newspaper messages, or other gifts to instead donate money to an account earmarked for the library project.

The project, she said, is being handled by the federal ministry of education through the “Oluremi at 65 Education Fund,” Zenith Bank Plc, account number 1310314977.

“The completion of the national library, This would be the best birthday present I could receive. My love for education has informed my decision to dedicate my birthday to this worthy cause,” she added.

Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, announced in March that the federal government intends to complete the first phase of the national library project by June 2025.

There has been no public update on the phase’s completion status since the March announcement.

The national library was first designed in 1981, with construction beginning in 2006 and an initial completion deadline set for 2008.