The Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Associated Institutions (NASU) has raised concerns over the prolonged abandonment of the National Library of Nigeria headquarters project in Abuja, calling on the Federal Government to take urgent action to complete the long-overdue facility.

The 11-storey library project, which began in 2006, was intended to house modern amenities including a bookstore, clinic, and restaurants. However, nearly two decades later, the structure remains unfinished. This concern was echoed at the recent meeting of the Examination Bodies and Libraries Trade Group Council of NASU, held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

In a communiqué jointly signed by the Council’s Deputy President/Chairman, Sunday Obabunmi, and its Secretary, ‘Damola Adelekun, who also serves as NASU’s Senior Assistant General Secretary, the union expressed deep frustration that the National Library still operates from a rented apartment and is now facing a quit notice from its landlords.

The union noted that although the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has been given the responsibility to complete the project, little progress has been made. This is despite the Federal Executive Council’s approval of N32.4 billion for the building’s completion.

While the current administration had earlier promised that phase one of the project — covering the basement, ground and second floors as well as external works — would be completed by June 2025, NASU lamented that June has come and gone with no significant work on the site.

The union urged the Federal Government to move beyond verbal commitments and expedite the construction of the national edifice, which they said is essential for academic growth and national development.

NASU also drew attention to the state of public libraries across the country, criticizing the continued non-functionality of state library boards. The council described this as an illegal act that undermines the statutory responsibilities of these boards, which include liaising with state governments to ensure the provision of effective library services, infrastructure, and staff welfare.

Emphasizing the transformative role of libraries, the union called for immediate steps to reinstate fully functional library boards in line with existing laws. It stressed that libraries are vital in providing access to information, improving literacy, supporting education, and contributing to the nation’s intellectual and manpower development.

NASU concluded by reaffirming that a strong, well-funded, and accessible library system is indispensable to Nigeria’s educational advancement and overall progress.