Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State, has wished Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, a happy birthday, but his message has sparked widespread discussion for its candid critique of national priorities. The First Lady celebrated her birthday on Sunday, September 21, 2025.
Obi began his message with a striking declaration: “We Are Finished! I join millions of Nigerians in wishing Her Excellency, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, a happy birthday. May God Almighty, who has been with her all these years, grant her many more healthy, fruitful, and happy years.”
Beyond the birthday greetings, Obi used the occasion to criticize what he described as a troubling irony in Nigeria’s approach to national development. The First Lady had made a plea earlier in early September, asking Nigerians to use her birthday as an opportunity to contribute to completing the long-abandoned National Library in Abuja, rather than sending gifts or placing adverts. Obi described this gesture as noble on the surface but argued that it reflects a failure of government responsibility, pointing out that a nation should not rely on charity to fund such a critical institution.
He noted that during his tenure as governor, similar initiatives—like directing funds into school infrastructure and educational programs—were meant to complement government action, not replace it. Obi criticized the fact that while billions are spent on jets, yachts, unused mansions, and extravagant trips abroad, essential national projects like the National Library remain unfinished. He described it as a “temple of knowledge” that serious nations treat as sacred, rather than leaving it to depend on birthday donations.
Emphasizing the importance of education in nation-building, Obi argued that Nigeria’s progress depends not on luxury or ostentation but on the development of minds through schools and libraries. His message has ignited debate nationwide, prompting renewed conversations about governance, resource allocation, and the need to invest in the country’s intellectual and educational foundation.Continue, Full, Reading>>>>
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