Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the development and promotion of Akwete fabric, the renowned handwoven textile produced in Akwete community, Ukwa East Local Government Area.
Speaking during her visit to Aba on Tuesday, Mrs. Tinubu said the donation would help develop the Akwete production centre, create jobs, boost the state’s economy, and preserve the centuries-old weaving tradition for future generations.
Describing Akwete fabric as a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, she praised the women who have sustained the craft through generations, urging them to continue passing the knowledge to younger people.
She also encouraged Nigerians, especially the youth, to embrace traditional attire and take pride in their cultural identity.
Announcing the donation, the First Lady called on prominent sons and daughters of Igboland to support efforts to elevate Akwete fabric to national prominence.
Mrs. Tinubu further promised that if President Bola Tinubu secures re-election in 2027, she would wear an Akwete-made wrapper and blouse (“buba”) at his inauguration.
Governor Alex Otti and his wife, Priscilla Otti, thanked the First Lady for the donation, describing it as a major boost for the revival of the Akwete weaving industry.
Otti said the state government had been working since 2023 to modernise the industry through technology and improved production methods while preserving its cultural significance.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, also pledged support for the construction of a weaving centre, describing Akwete women as the backbone of the community.
In recognition of her contribution, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred on the First Lady the traditional title “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (Pride of Abia Women).
