I’ll wear ‘Akwete’ if my husband wins second term – Remi Tinubu

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, says she would wear traditional Akwete fabric if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected for a second term in office, describing the indigenous textile as comfortable, breathable and a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Mrs Tinubu made the pledge during her maiden visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village […]

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, says she would wear traditional Akwete fabric if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected for a second term in office, describing the indigenous textile as comfortable, breathable and a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Mrs Tinubu made the pledge 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 donation to support the revitalisation and expansion of the centuries-old weaving industry.

Addressing members of the cooperative, the First Lady said she was impressed by the quality of the locally woven fabric and expressed her commitment to promoting it.

“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.

Mrs Tinubu commended the women of the Akwete Weaving Cooperative for sustaining the age-old craft, noting that the tradition had continued to thrive because it was being handed down from one generation to another.
She said it was encouraging to see younger people learning the skill from their families, stressing the importance of preserving Nigeria’s indigenous crafts and cultural identity.

“I saw young people in their family doing exact thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation,” she added.

The First Lady urged Nigerians to embrace Akwete fabric and other locally produced textiles, saying increased patronage would help preserve indigenous craftsmanship, create jobs and improve the livelihoods of local artisans.

She also reaffirmed her support for initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting local industries, noting that the ₦2 billion intervention would contribute to strengthening the Akwete weaving industry and expanding economic opportunities for those engaged in the craft.