Nigerian govt threatens sanctions over further delays in national library completion

Minister Warns of Sanctions for Delays in National Library Project

ABUJA — The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has issued a stern warning to contractors and consultants involved in the National Library of Nigeria project, threatening sanctions for continued delays in its completion.

During a meeting held on Sunday with key stakeholders at the National Library of Nigeria, Alausa emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the Federal Government would establish new delivery timelines for the project and ensure that contractors adhere to their commitments.

Alausa’s warning was communicated through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah. “We will make you accountable for the timelines we’re going to set for ourselves,” Alausa said, underscoring the urgency of the situation. He added that failing to meet these timelines would result in penalties for the contractors.

The minister also highlighted that the project has been divided into two critical components: physical infrastructure and furnishing, both set to progress concurrently.

Originally conceived in 1981, the National Library project began construction in 2006 with an anticipated completion period of 24 months. It was expected to be completed in 2008, but the project remains unfinished nearly 15 years later.

“We’ll have a National Library that looks like the National Library of Qatar,” Alausa stated, signaling the government’s commitment to delivering a world-class facility.

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