First Lady Donates ₦2 Billion to Boost Akwete Weaving Heritage in Abia

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the development and preservation of the renowned Akwete fabric, a traditional hand-woven textile indigenous to Akwete community in Ukwa East Local Government Area.

Mrs. Tinubu announced the donation on Tuesday during her visit to Aba, where she joined efforts to celebrate and promote the centuries-old Akwete weaving tradition.

She said the fund would be used to develop the Akwete production centre, create employment opportunities, strengthen the local economy, and preserve the cultural heritage for future generations.

Describing Akwete fabric as a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural identity, the First Lady praised the craftsmanship of the women who weave the textile using cotton, raffia, and silk on traditional vertical looms, producing distinctive geometric patterns and vibrant colours.

She stressed the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, noting that culture defines a people’s identity and should be passed from one generation to another.

“The Akwete weaving tradition is a sacred craft carried out with love, patience, and endurance. It is important that the women continue to pass this knowledge to younger generations,” she said.

Mrs. Tinubu also urged Nigerian youths to embrace their cultural heritage by proudly wearing traditional attire, saying African fashion remains an important symbol of identity.

Addressing the women of Akwete, she assured them of her commitment to promoting the fabric nationwide and called on prominent sons and daughters of the South-East to support efforts to preserve the unique heritage.

She further pledged that if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected in 2027, she would wear an Akwete-made wrapper and blouse for the presidential inauguration ceremony.

Governor Alex Otti and the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, expressed appreciation for the donation, describing it as a major boost that would transform Akwete fabric production and strengthen the local economy.

Governor Otti said his administration had been working with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to reposition the industry, remove production challenges, and integrate modern technology to improve output and global competitiveness.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, praised the women behind the Akwete weaving tradition, describing them as the backbone of the community, while pledging his support towards the construction of a dedicated weaving centre.

In recognition of her contribution to the preservation of the state’s cultural heritage and her support for Nigerian women, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred on the First Lady the traditional title “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (Pride of Abia Women).