Oluremi Tinubu Donates ₦2 Billion to Boost Akwete Fabric Production in Abia

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced a ₦2 billion donation to the Abia State Government to support the growth and preservation of Akwete fabric, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most treasured handwoven textiles.

The announcement was made during her visit to Akwete in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, where she joined residents in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the renowned weaving community. The donation is expected to support the development of the Akwete production centre, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the local economy through increased textile production.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady described Akwete fabric as a symbol of Nigeria’s cultural identity and praised the women who have preserved the centuries-old craft by passing it down from one generation to another. She noted that the unique textile, woven on traditional vertical looms using cotton, raffia, and silk, is admired for its vibrant colours and distinctive geometric patterns.

According to her, preserving indigenous crafts is essential to protecting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. She encouraged Nigerians, particularly young people, to embrace traditional clothing and take pride in the country’s rich customs and history.

Oluremi Tinubu said she was deeply impressed by the dedication of the women behind the Akwete weaving tradition, describing the craft as one that reflects patience, skill, and love. She stressed that the artisans deserve greater support to ensure the tradition continues to thrive for future generations.

Addressing the women of Akwete, the First Lady said she had listened to their concerns and believed the time had come to give the famous fabric the national recognition it deserves. She called on prominent sons and daughters of the Igbo community to work together to preserve and promote the historic textile while announcing the ₦2 billion intervention to support the project.

She also made a symbolic promise to Governor Alex Otti, saying that if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in the 2027 presidential election, she would wear an outfit made from Akwete fabric, including a traditional wrapper and blouse, during the inauguration ceremony.

Governor Alex Otti, accompanied by his wife, Priscilla Otti, expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s generous donation, describing it as a major boost for the state’s efforts to revive and expand the Akwete weaving industry. He said the intervention would significantly improve production and unlock new economic opportunities for the artisans and surrounding communities.

The governor explained that his administration has been working closely with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to reposition the industry for greater commercial value. According to him, the state government is addressing longstanding challenges affecting the sector while introducing modern technology to improve production standards and enhance the global competitiveness of Akwete fabric.

Otti also commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, describing them as important reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy.

Also speaking at the event, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Enyinnaya Abaribe, praised the women who produce Akwete fabric, describing them as the foundation of the community’s cultural and economic identity. He pledged his support for the development of a new weaving centre to further preserve and promote the craft.

In recognition of her contribution to the preservation of the state’s cultural heritage and her support for women, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred the traditional title “Ugo Nwanyi Abia,” meaning “The Pride of Abia Women,” on the First Lady. The honour acknowledged her generosity, compassion, and commitment to the welfare and empowerment of Nigerian women.

The ₦2 billion donation is widely expected to accelerate the revival of the Akwete weaving industry, preserve one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural traditions, and create new opportunities for artisans while promoting Abia State as a centre for indigenous textile production.