First Lady donates N2bn to promote Akwete weaving heritage in Abia

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged N2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the preservation and promotion of Akwete weaving, a centuries-old textile art form unique to Akwete town in the southeastern part of the country. The donation was announced during a ceremony held in Aba on Tuesday, where the First Lady visited the Ukwa East Local Government Area to celebrate and elevate the status of the traditional craft. The funds aim to develop the Akwete production site, create employment opportunities, and boost the local economy while ensuring the survival of the ancient weaving practice for future generations. The First Lady emphasized the cultural significance of Akwete fabric, which is woven on vertical looms by women using cotton, raffia, and silk. Known for its vibrant colors and intricate geometric patterns, the fabric holds deep historical and social importance within the Igbo community. During her remarks, Tinubu expressed admiration for the craftsmanship and urged younger generations to embrace traditional attire as a means of connecting with their roots. She stated that losing cultural identity could lead to forgetting one's origins, stressing the need to preserve such traditions through education and appreciation. Tinubu also called upon notable members of the Igbo diaspora to contribute to the effort of safeguarding the Akwete weaving legacy. Her commitment to promoting the fabric was underscored by a personal promise: if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in the 2027 presidential election, she intends to wear a wrapper and buba made entirely from Akwete fabric during her inauguration. This pledge highlights the symbolic weight of the initiative and signals a broader push to elevate the fabric on the national stage. Abia Governor Alex Otti and his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, welcomed the First Lady's contribution, stating that the funding would bring transformative changes to the production and visibility of Akwete fabric in the state. Otti described the visit as both timely and crucial for the preservation of the indigenous craft. He confirmed that the state government has been collaborating with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to enhance the economic potential of the industry. Efforts include removing obstacles that hinder the growth of the craft and integrating modern technologies to increase productivity and global competitiveness. The governor also acknowledged the economic policies implemented by President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, which he believes have created a conducive environment for industries like Akwete weaving to thrive. These reforms, according to Otti, provide the necessary infrastructure for local artisans to access international markets and expand their reach beyond regional boundaries. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, lauded the women of Akwete for their role as the backbone of the community. He expressed willingness to participate in the construction of a dedicated weaving center, emphasizing the importance of investing in the physical and institutional structures needed to sustain the craft. His comments reflect growing political and public interest in supporting the Akwete weaving industry as a viable economic and cultural asset. In a ceremonial gesture, the Abia Council of Traditional Rulers honored the First Lady with the traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” (the Pride of Abia Women). This recognition acknowledges her contributions to the empowerment of women across Nigeria and her dedication to preserving cultural heritage. The title underscores the respect and gratitude of the local leadership toward Tinubu's efforts to highlight and protect the Akwete weaving tradition. As the project moves forward, stakeholders are expected to collaborate on developing infrastructure, training programs, and marketing strategies aimed at elevating the profile of Akwete fabric both domestically and internationally. The success of this initiative will depend on sustained investment, community engagement, and policy support from both federal and state governments.