Oluremi Tinubu Donates ₦2 Billion to Promote Akwete Fabric

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦2 billion to the Akwete Cooperative Society in Abia State to support the promotion, preservation and expansion of the renowned Akwete fabric industry.

During her visit to the historic Akwete community, Senator Tinubu emphasized the importance of preserving the centuries-old weaving tradition, describing the indigenous craft as a valuable cultural heritage that deserves protection and sustained investment.

She encouraged the Igbo people to maintain the authenticity of Akwete fabric while embracing innovation and modernization that would make it more competitive and attractive in national and international markets without compromising its cultural identity.

The First Lady noted that strengthening the Akwete textile industry would create more economic opportunities for local weavers, particularly women, while preserving an important aspect of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the Akwete textile industry, describing the fabric as one of the finest indigenous textiles in Africa.

Governor Otti disclosed that since assuming office in 2023, his administration has implemented initiatives aimed at promoting Akwete fabric through technological innovation, improved production processes and policies designed to remove obstacles hindering the industry’s growth.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable economic development by supporting local industries capable of generating employment and boosting the state’s economy.

In her welcome address, the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, commended Senator Tinubu for the Renewed Hope Initiative’s empowerment programmes targeted at women, youths and vulnerable groups across the country.

She described the First Lady’s visit as historic, praising her dedication to preserving the Akwete weaving tradition while empowering women whose livelihoods depend on the textile industry.

Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the financial support would significantly enhance production capacity, improve the livelihoods of local weavers and position Akwete fabric for greater recognition both within Nigeria and internationally.