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Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged to wear Akwete fabric if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected for a second term.
She made the remark during her first visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State on Tuesday.
During the visit, the First Lady also announced a ₦2 billion donation aimed at reviving the renowned Akwete weaving industry and strengthening the livelihoods of local artisans.
First Lady praises Akwete craftsmanship
Addressing members of the cooperative, Tinubu spoke warmly about the quality of the handwoven fabric, describing it as soft and breathable.
She also applauded the younger generation for continuing the centuries-old weaving tradition passed down through 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.
“I saw young people in their family doing exact thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation.”
She encouraged Nigerians to embrace clothing made from Akwete fabric and other locally produced textiles, saying greater patronage would help preserve indigenous craftsmanship while creating more opportunities for rural weavers.
Visit focused on meeting local women
The First Lady explained that she deliberately avoided preparing a formal speech because she wanted the visit to be a personal interaction with the women behind the famous weaving tradition.
According to her, the trip was centred on listening to their experiences rather than following an official programme.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation to Abia State Governor Alex Otti, describing him as “a good man.”
She recalled previously contacting his wife to learn more about the Akwete weaving heritage and said she was grateful the long-awaited visit had finally taken place.
“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.
“He’s a very good man. I see that, and I want to thank you. And I remember when I was calling you, looking for your wife, concerning Akwete. So, but I thank God we are here. All those history. We are here.”
She concluded by urging Nigerians to support locally made fabrics, stressing that increased patronage would help preserve the country’s cultural heritage and improve the economic well-being of communities that depend on traditional weaving.
Watch the video here…
“If my husband wins a second term, I will be wearing Akwete wrapper.”
— First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, speaking today during her visit to Abia State. https://t.co/FIP5wklsaz pic.twitter.com/APaFGavvJy
— CHUKS
(@ChuksEricE) July 21, 2026