Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged N2 billion to support the revitalisation of Akwete fabric, the centuries-old handwoven textile produced by women in Akwete community, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
The donation was announced on Tuesday during her visit to the community, where she celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Akwete weaving and reaffirmed her commitment to preserving one of Nigeria’s oldest indigenous crafts.
Mrs Tinubu said the fund would support the development of the Akwete production centre, expand employment opportunities and strengthen the state’s economy. She noted that the intervention would also help preserve the traditional weaving craft and ensure it is passed on to future generations.
Expressing admiration for the fabric’s craftsmanship, the First Lady described Akwete cloth as a symbol of Nigeria’s cultural identity. Woven on vertical looms using cotton, raffia and silk, the fabric is renowned for its vibrant colours and distinctive geometric designs.
“I am in awe of all the richness of what the Akwete fabrics stand for.
“I love traditional outfits because our tradition and culture tell us who we are. The moment we lose that, we won’t remember where we come from.”
She encouraged young Nigerians to embrace their cultural heritage by wearing traditional African attire with pride and learning the customs passed down through generations.
Addressing the women of Akwete, Mrs Tinubu said she had heard their appeals for greater support and declared that the time had come to elevate Akwete fabric onto the national stage.
“To the women of Akwete, I heard your cry. I am here to announce to all Nigerians and the Igbo people that it is time to take Akwete fabric to the national stage.
“On my part, I am donating N2 billion for the project.”
The First Lady also told Governor Alex Otti that if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is re-elected in 2027, she would wear an Akwete-made wrapper and blouse during the presidential inauguration as a symbol of support for the indigenous fabric.
Responding, Governor Otti thanked the First Lady for what he described as a transformational intervention. He revealed that the Abia State Government has been working with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to modernise production, remove barriers affecting the industry and introduce technology to improve competitiveness in both local and international markets.
The governor also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, describing them as important steps toward economic recovery.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial District, praised the women behind the Akwete weaving tradition, describing them as the backbone of the community. He also pledged his support for the construction of the proposed weaving centre.
During the visit, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred the traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (The Pride of Abia Women) on the First Lady in recognition of her contributions to the welfare of Nigerian women.
