First Lady backs weavers with ₦2bn, vows to wear Akwete if Tinubu is re-elected

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday paid her first visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State, where she announced a ₦2 billion donation to support the revitalisation of the local weaving industry.

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Oluremi Tinubu

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday paid her first visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State, where she announced a ₦2 billion donation to support the revitalisation of the local weaving industry.

During the visit, she said she deliberately chose a relaxed approach, preferring to spend time with the women at the cooperative instead of following a formal programme.

The First Lady praised the women for their dedication and resilience in sustaining the centuries-old weaving tradition, encouraging Nigerians to embrace Igbo traditional attire made from Akwete fabric as a way of promoting and supporting local artisans.

Speaking at the event, Tinubu said she would wear an Akwete wrapper if her husband, President Bola Tinubu, wins a second term in office.

“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 said.