Yemi Obafemi
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has announced a N2 billion donation to support the development of the Akwete textile production site in Abia State as part of efforts to preserve the country’s cultural heritage and revitalise indigenous textile production.
The donation was announced during her visit to Akwete in Abia State in a statement signed by Busola Kukoyi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on July 21, 2026.
Speaking at the historic hand-woven fabric production site, the First Lady said preserving traditional crafts was essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural identity and ensuring they are passed on to future generations.
“Our young people need to also be encouraged to get used to our tradition and cultural outfits,” she said.
“It is the culture that raised me and there is nowhere that I stand in the world without wearing African wears.”
Tinubu commended the women of Akwete for preserving the centuries-old weaving tradition and for involving younger members of their families in the craft, describing it as “a sacred craft done with love, patience, endurance.”
She said the Federal Government would support the development of facilities at the production site to help preserve the history of the renowned fabric.
“For the women of Akwete, I heard your cry. I am here to announce to all Nigerians and the Igbo should take Akwete to the nations. For me and all the notable sons of Igbo land, rise up to preserve this,” she said.
Earlier during the visit, the First Lady was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugo Nwanyi of Abia.
She was received at the Akwete production site by Abia State Governor Alex Otti and his wife, Priscilla Otti, alongside traditional rulers, political leaders and members of the clergy.
