Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦2 billion to the Akwete Cooperative Society in Abia State to support the promotion and preservation of the renowned Akwete fabric.
During a visit to the Akwete community, Tinubu urged the Igbo people to safeguard the centuries-old weaving tradition while embracing innovation to make the fabric more appealing nationwide without losing its cultural identity.
She described the craft as a sacred heritage that must be protected for future generations.
Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing the Akwete textile industry, describing the indigenous fabric as unrivalled in quality. He said the state had been promoting Akwete since 2023 through the adoption of technology and policies aimed at removing obstacles to the industry’s growth, while maintaining a focus on inclusive governance.
In her welcome address, the wife of the governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, lauded Senator Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative for its empowerment programmes targeting women, youths and vulnerable groups.
