Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed her commitment to promoting indigenous fashion by pledging to wear Akwete fabric if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office.
The First Lady made the statement during her maiden visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State on Tuesday, where she celebrated the rich cultural heritage behind the locally produced textile.
During the visit, Oluremi Tinubu announced a ₦2 billion intervention fund to help revive the Akwete weaving industry, empower local artisans, and improve the economic opportunities of those involved in the traditional craft.
While addressing members of the cooperative, she praised the unique qualities of Akwete fabric, describing it as comfortable, soft, and breathable. She also commended young people who have continued the centuries-old tradition of weaving, noting that the skill has been preserved through generations of families.
“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.
She added that she had seen younger members of families actively involved in the craft, describing Akwete weaving as a valuable tradition passed down from one generation to another.
The First Lady encouraged Nigerians to embrace locally made fabrics, stating that increased support for indigenous textiles would help protect cultural heritage, promote local businesses, and create more opportunities for artisans in rural communities.
Explaining the purpose of her visit, Tinubu said she intentionally chose not to prepare a formal speech because she wanted the engagement to be a personal conversation with the women who keep the Akwete weaving tradition alive.
According to her, the visit was mainly about hearing their stories, understanding their challenges, and appreciating their dedication to preserving the historic craft.
She also praised Abia State Governor Alex Otti, describing him as “a good man,” while recalling her previous efforts to connect with his wife to learn more about the Akwete weaving heritage.
“I just wanted to meet with these women, which I will tell the story. But we went on, and my husband said something. He said I was getting frustrated. I said, Otti is a good man,” she said.
Tinubu further expressed gratitude that the long-awaited visit had finally happened, adding that the experience allowed her to learn more about the history and significance of Akwete weaving.
She concluded by calling on Nigerians to support locally produced fabrics, emphasizing that patronage of traditional textiles would help sustain cultural practices and improve the livelihoods of communities involved in the craft.