The federal government unveiled a robust timeline of twenty to twenty-one months to finalize the construction of the Abuja National Library project after years of delay. The profound commitment was articulated by Prof. Tahir Mammam, the Minister of Education, during an insightful tour of the project in Abuja.
Sited at plot 35 of the Central Business District in Abuja, the multi-floored edifice encompasses eleven levels. This includes two basement floors, a ground floor, and eight upper floors. Complemented by a perimeter fence, internal roads, and more. The National Library holds pivotal significance within the educational landscape. With the existing rented office’s incongruous state fueling concerns among stakeholders, the call for swift completion has amplified.
The Start Date And The Total Costs Of The Construction of Abuja National Library.
The project was first commissioned in 2006 and awarded to Reynolds Construction Company (RCC). The National Library project has endured a protracted journey marred by financial constraints across successive administrations. Over the span of seventeen years, the project’s cost has escalated from N8.59 billion to N100 billion. In 2019, the Minister of Education explored alternative funding options. This is attributed to the delays due to inadequate funding, currency fluctuations, and the need for redesigning. The project’s financing transitioned to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) representing a strategic move toward progress.
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The Minister of Education underscored the unwavering commitment of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to uphold promises and deliver tangible progress. Prof. Mammam emphasized the National Library’s global significance as a monumental edifice. The Minister’s resolute stance resonated with President Tinubu’s intolerance for unresolved projects. while he highlighted his dedication to driving progress and development across the nation.
Asserting that every party involved must return to the project site, Prof. Mammam acknowledged existing challenges but remained steadfast in the vision for swift completion. With a target timeline of twenty to twenty-one months for the construction of the Abuja National Library project, he exuded optimism about steering this endeavor towards a successful and transformative culmination, echoing a resounding commitment to achieve tangible progress for the betterment of Nigeria.
