Lagos APC defends National Library donations, rejects Obi’s criticism, and calls on Nigerians to embrace philanthropy for stronger institutions.
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended the importance of National Library donations, faulting Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, for criticising the initiative.
The party described Obi’s remarks as unnecessary and argued that voluntary support for national institutions is a widely accepted practice across the world.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC said Obi’s comments questioning why the National Library should receive birthday contributions were disappointing and unhelpful.
The party insisted that philanthropy is not only legitimate but also essential for strengthening public institutions in Nigeria.
“Across the world, public libraries, schools, and hospitals benefit from private interventions, endowments, and philanthropy,” the statement read.
“Such gestures complement government’s efforts and represent shared responsibility for nation-building. Rather than commend patriotic Nigerians, Obi has chosen to politicise philanthropy.”
The APC argued that undermining National Library donations sends the wrong message and risks discouraging citizens who wish to contribute to public good.
It noted that successful societies thrive when citizens, businesses, and governments work together to support critical institutions.
The party also drew attention to Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State, where schools and hospitals benefitted from private and church-based support.
According to the APC, it is inconsistent for him to criticise a practice at the national level that was encouraged under his leadership at the state level. “Nigerians can clearly see this contradiction,” the party said.
The Lagos APC contrasted Obi’s criticism with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on reforms.
It praised the President for working to reposition the economy and strengthen public institutions through long-term policy initiatives.
“While Tinubu is focused on governance, Obi appears preoccupied with headlines,” Oladejo remarked, adding a Yoruba proverb: “The man who sees every rainfall as a storm will never plant a seed.”
Education analysts say the debate raises an important question about the role of philanthropy in Nigeria’s development.
In many advanced countries, donations from individuals, foundations, and corporations are critical in sustaining libraries, universities, and museums. Without such support, many institutions would struggle to provide modern services.
In Nigeria, experts argue, libraries are underfunded and often lack resources to meet the needs of students, researchers, and the general public.
Strengthening the National Library is therefore vital for academic growth, knowledge preservation, and cultural development.
Donations, whether large or small, can help modernise facilities, digitise collections, and provide better access to learning materials.
Public opinion on Obi’s remarks has been mixed. Some Nigerians agree with him that relying on donations highlights government’s failure to adequately fund public institutions.
Others, however, share the APC’s view that private support should be welcomed, not condemned, especially in a country where government resources are stretched across multiple pressing needs.
Civil society voices have also weighed in, urging Nigerians to separate politics from philanthropy. They argue that what matters most is whether the National Library receives the support it requires to serve citizens effectively.
“If individuals or organisations are willing to contribute, that should be celebrated, not politicised,” said one education advocate.
The Lagos APC urged Nigerians to focus on building, not tearing down, the institutions that serve the nation.
It described contributions to the National Library as a patriotic gesture that strengthens Nigeria’s intellectual foundation and preserves its cultural heritage for future generations.
“Supporting the National Library is not about politics, it is about patriotism,” the statement continued.
“It is about ensuring Nigeria’s educational heritage remains intact and accessible. Those who discourage such contributions risk undermining our collective progress.”
The party concluded by encouraging citizens, corporate bodies, and faith-based groups to see philanthropy as part of their duty to the nation. “Government cannot do everything alone,” it noted.
“Every citizen has a role to play in nation-building. That is why National Library donations must be encouraged as a noble and commendable act.”
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