First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday pledged a ₦2 billion intervention to revive the traditional Akwete weaving industry in Abia State, and said she would wear the fabric more often if President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in 2027.
First Lady's visit to Akwete Weaving Cooperative
Mrs Tinubu made the remarks during her first official visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State. The Akwete is a handwoven textile indigenous to the Akwete community, renowned for its intricate patterns and durability. It is one of Nigeria’s oldest traditional textiles, woven for generations largely by women.
The First Lady said she had become fond of the fabric because of its soft texture and promised to adopt it more often if, in her words, “God brings my husband in a second time.”
“I love Aso Oke, but the Aso Oke is too heavy for my head nowadays; some are so stiff, and they bruise me. For the quality and texture of Akwete, I told Her Excellency that if God brings my husband in a second time, I’ll be wearing a buba and wrapper made from Akwete,” she said.
“I am going to be wearing that because it is very soft, breathable cotton. I saw young people in their families doing the same thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation to generation.”
₦2 billion intervention for cultural preservation
The First Lady unveiled the ₦2 billion intervention to support the Akwete Weaving Cooperative and strengthen the centuries-old weaving tradition. She praised the women in the cooperative for preserving the craft across generations and encouraged Nigerians to wear Akwete fabrics to promote local artisans and indigenous industries.
Mrs Tinubu added that she deliberately avoided preparing a formal speech because she wanted the visit to be an opportunity for personal interaction with the women.
Commendation for Governor Otti
Mrs Tinubu also commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti, describing him as “a good man.” She disclosed that she had previously contacted the governor’s wife, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, to seek information on the history of Akwete weaving.
“I just wanted to meet with these women and hear their story. My husband even said I was getting frustrated because I was determined to come. Otti is a good man. He’s a very good man, and I want to thank you,” she said.
“I remember calling you, looking for your wife, concerning Akwete. I thank God we are finally here.”
Context of previous remarks
The comments come weeks after Mrs Tinubu drew criticism for encouraging vulnerable Nigerians to explore small-scale businesses such as frying akara and roasting corn, while urging successful Afrobeats artistes to support the less privileged rather than buying expensive cars. Many Nigerians argued that her remarks failed to reflect the country’s economic realities, stating that citizens were more concerned about inflation, unemployment and the rising cost of living than private philanthropy.
