Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has promised to adopt Akwete fabric as part of her regular wardrobe if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office.
She made the pledge on Tuesday during her first visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State, where she also announced a ₦2 billion intervention to revive the centuries-old weaving industry and support local artisans.
Speaking with members of the cooperative, the First Lady praised the quality of the handwoven fabric, describing it as soft, breathable and suitable for everyday wear.
She said she was particularly impressed by the younger generation’s commitment to preserving the traditional craft, noting that the skill had been passed down through families over the years.
“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.
“I saw young people in their family doing the exact thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation to generation.”
Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace Akwete fabric and other locally produced textiles, stressing that increased patronage would help preserve the country’s cultural heritage while creating more economic opportunities for rural communities.
She explained that she deliberately chose not to prepare a formal speech because she wanted the visit to be an opportunity to interact directly with the women behind the famous weaving tradition and hear their stories firsthand.
The First Lady also commended Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, describing him as “a good man.”
She recalled previously reaching out to the governor’s wife to learn more about the Akwete weaving heritage and expressed delight that the visit had finally become a reality.
“I just wanted to meet with these women. My husband said I was getting frustrated. I said Otti is a good man. He’s a very good man, and I want to thank you.
“I remember when I was calling you, looking for your wife concerning Akwete. But I thank God we are here today,” she said.
She concluded by encouraging Nigerians to support locally made fabrics, saying such patronage would not only preserve indigenous craftsmanship but also improve the livelihoods of communities that depend on traditional weaving.
Watch the video below;
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