First Lady promises to showcase indigenous Akwete fabric in 2027 and announces ₦2 billion intervention to revive the centuries-old textile industry.
Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged to wear the traditional Akwete ‘buba’ and wrapper if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected in the 2027 general elections.
She made the declaration during her maiden visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, where she also announced a ₦2 billion intervention aimed at revitalising the renowned indigenous textile industry.
“If God brings my husband in a second time, I’ll be wearing a ‘buba’ wrapper from Akwete,” she said.
The First Lady described the handwoven fabric as a unique, soft and breathable cotton material deserving of national and international recognition. She pledged to showcase it at one of Nigeria’s major ceremonial events.
Mrs Tinubu commended the women of the cooperative for preserving the centuries-old weaving tradition and urged Nigerians to patronise locally made textiles to boost local industries, preserve cultural heritage and create sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
She explained that her visit was intended to personally engage with the weavers and appreciate their craftsmanship rather than deliver a formal address.
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting the Akwete textile industry, while praising President Tinubu’s economic reforms. His wife, Mrs Priscilla Otti, described the visit as historic and lauded the First Lady’s efforts to empower women and preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage through the Renewed Hope Initiative.