First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday donated N2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the development of the renowned Akwete fabric industry and was later conferred with the traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (The Pride of Abia Women).
Mrs Tinubu announced the donation during her visit to Aba to celebrate and promote the historic Akwete weaving heritage of Akwete community in Ukwa East Local Government Area.
She said the fund would be used to develop the Akwete production centre, create employment opportunities, boost the state’s economy and preserve the centuries-old weaving tradition for future generations.
In recognition of her generosity, compassion and contributions to the welfare of Nigerian women, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers later conferred the traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” on the First Lady.
Speaking during the event, Mrs Tinubu described Akwete fabric as a unique cultural treasure, woven on vertical looms by women using cotton, raffia and silk, and distinguished by its vibrant colours and intricate 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 said.
She said the weaving tradition had been handed down through generations with love, patience and endurance, urging the women of Akwete to continue passing the craft to younger generations.
The First Lady also encouraged Nigerian youths to embrace their cultural identity by wearing traditional attire, stressing that preserving indigenous culture was essential to safeguarding the nation’s heritage.
Addressing the women of Akwete, she said, “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 up to preserve this culture. On my part, I am donating N2 billion for the project.”
Mrs Tinubu further promised Governor Alex Otti that if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in the 2027 presidential election, she would wear an Akwete wrapper and blouse at his inauguration.
Responding, Governor Alex Otti and the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs Priscilla Otti, thanked Mrs Tinubu for the donation, describing it as a major intervention that would significantly transform Akwete fabric production.
The governor said the state government had been working with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to reposition the industry for greater economic value by removing obstacles to its growth and adopting technology to improve production and competitiveness in the global market.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Enyinnaya Abaribe, described the women weavers as the bedrock of the Akwete community and pledged his support for the construction of a weaving centre.
