The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has donated N2 billion to the Abia State government to support the development of Akwete fabric, a hand-woven textile indigenous to Akwete town in Abia.
The first lady made the donation in Aba on Tuesday, during her visit to the state to celebrate and promote the historic Akwete weaving heritage.
She explained that the gesture was to support the development of the Akwete production site, with a view to creating more jobs and boosting the state’s economy.
She praised the uniqueness and the richness of the Akwete fabric, crafted on vertical looms by women in Abia, using cotton, raffia, and silk and famous for its vibrant colours and intricate geometric motifs.
“I am in awe of all the richness of what the Akwete fabrics stand for.
”I love traditional outfits because our tradition, our culture, tells us who we are. The moment we lose that, we won’t remember where we come from.
“The craft was transferred from generation to generation. It is a sacred craft done with love, patience, and endurance.
“The tradition of the Akwete handmade fabric is dear to the hearts of the women who make it, and they should be encouraged to pass it on to the next generation,” she said.
Ms Tinubu encouraged the younger generation to embrace their culture, particularly cultural attire that connects the young with the older generation.
According to her, people should be proud of their cultural heritage and wear the African traditional attires with pride.
”We should not let our children forget that.
“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.
”Therefore, all the notable sons and daughters of Igbo land should rise to preserve this culture. On my part, I am donating N2 billion for the project,” she said.
She promised Governor Alex Otti that if President Bola Tinubu wins the 2027 presidential election for a second term, she would wear a wrapper and “buba” made from Akwete for the inauguration.
Responding, Otti and his wife, Mrs Priscilla Otti, thanked the first lady for the gesture, saying, “it will significantly transform Akwete fabric production in the state”.
Mr Otti also pledged total support to President Tinubu’s economic policies, stressing that the reforms were gradually setting the country on the path of sustainable growth.
The Abia Council of Traditional Rulers conferred the traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (the Pride of Abia Women) on the first lady.
Mr Otti explained that the honour was in recognition of her generosity, care and motherly roles to all Nigerian women.