Wife of President gives N2 billion to support preservation of traditional Akwete textile craft in Abia State

The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has made a substantial donation of N2 billion to the Abia Government, with the aim of supporting the development of Akwete fabric, a renowned hand-woven textile that originates from Akwete town in Abia.

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This significant gesture was made during her visit to Aba on Tuesday, where she sought to promote and celebrate the historic Akwete weaving heritage, specifically in the Ukwa East Local Government Area of the state.

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According to Sen. Tinubu, the donation is intended to support the development of the Akwete production site, thereby creating more job opportunities and boosting the state's economy, while also preserving the centuries-old craft for future generations.

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She expressed admiration for the uniqueness and richness of the Akwete fabric, which is crafted on vertical looms by women in Abia using materials such as cotton, raffia, and silk, and is notable for its vibrant colors and intricate geometric motifs.

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Sen. Tinubu praised the cultural significance of the Akwete fabric, stating "I am in awe of all the richness of what the Akwete fabrics stand for" and emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional outfits as a means of connecting with one's cultural heritage.

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She emphasized that the craft of Akwete fabric production is a sacred one, transferred from generation to generation, and done with love, patience, and endurance, and encouraged the women of Akwete to pass it on to the next generation.

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Sen. Tinubu encouraged the younger generation to embrace their cultural heritage, particularly traditional attire, which serves as a connection between the young and older generations, and urged people to take pride in their cultural roots and wear African traditional clothing with pride.

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She announced her intention to take the Akwete fabric to the national stage, calling on notable sons and daughters of Igbo land to rise up and preserve this cultural heritage, and reiterated her donation of N2 billion to support the project.

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Sen. Tinubu made a promise to Gov. Alex Otti that if President Bola Tinubu wins the 2027 presidential election for a second term, she would wear a wrapper and "buba" made from Akwete fabric to the inauguration ceremony.

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In response, Gov. Otti and his wife, Mrs Priscilla Otti, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for her generous gesture, stating that it would significantly transform Akwete fabric production in the state and describing her visit as timely and significant for preserving the indigenous craft.

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Gov. Otti noted that the Abia Government had been engaging with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to reposition the industry for greater economic value, and was working to remove barriers limiting the growth of the centuries-old craft, while also embracing technology to improve production and competitiveness in the global market.

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The governor praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, which would have a positive impact on the state's economy.

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Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, the lawmaker representing Abia South Senatorial District, praised the women who weave the Akwete fabric as the bedrock of the community, and expressed his desire to be part of the construction of the weaving center.

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The Abia Council of Traditional Rulers conferred the traditional title of "Ugo Nwanyi Abia" (the Pride of Abia Women) on the First Lady, in recognition of her generosity, care, and motherly roles to all Nigerian women.