‘If Tinubu Returns, I’ll Wear Akwete Every Day’: First Lady Unveils ₦2bn Lifeline for Abia’s Historic Weaving Industry

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged to champion the use of Nigeria’s indigenous Akwete fabric on a national stage, declaring that she would proudly wear outfits made from the renowned textile if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office.

Mrs Tinubu made the declaration during her maiden visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, where she also announced a ₦2 billion intervention fund aimed at reviving and expanding the centuries-old weaving industry.

Addressing members of the cooperative and local artisans, the First Lady described Akwete fabric as one of Nigeria’s cultural treasures, praising its quality, comfort and unique craftsmanship. She said the locally woven textile possesses qualities that make it suitable for wider national and international recognition.

“If God brings my husband in a second time, I’ll be wearing a buba and wrapper made from Akwete. I am going to be wearing that because it is very soft breathable cotton,” she said.

Her remarks drew attention to the growing push for greater patronage of locally produced goods and indigenous industries as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and preserve its cultural heritage.

Mrs Tinubu commended the women behind the Akwete Weaving Cooperative for keeping the ancient craft alive despite changing times, noting that the tradition has survived largely because of its successful transfer from one generation to another.

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She expressed delight at seeing younger members of families actively learning the weaving skill, describing it as a powerful example of cultural continuity and community resilience.

“I saw young people in their family doing exact thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation,” she said.

The First Lady stressed that preserving indigenous crafts such as Akwete weaving is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural identity, while also creating sustainable economic opportunities for communities that depend on traditional industries.

She urged Nigerians to embrace Akwete fabric and other locally produced textiles, arguing that increased patronage would not only protect traditional craftsmanship but also stimulate job creation, boost local production and improve the livelihoods of artisans across the country.

Highlighting the significance of the ₦2 billion support package, Mrs Tinubu said the intervention would help modernise and strengthen the Akwete weaving industry, expand production capacity and open new economic opportunities for women and young people engaged in the trade.

The donation is expected to provide a major boost to one of Nigeria’s oldest indigenous textile industries, reinforcing ongoing efforts to preserve the historic Akwete weaving tradition while positioning it for greater commercial growth and national visibility.