By Precious Mark
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has made a N2 billion donation to support the development of the Akwete fabric production site in Abia State.
Senator Tinubu made the donation during her visit to Akwete.
Speaking, she noted that the rich cultural heritage of Nigerians must be preserved for future generations and economic prosperity.
She further added that the tradition of the handmade fabric is deeply cherished by local weavers who should be encouraged to mentor younger generations to keep the craft alive.
“Our young people need to also be encouraged to get used to our tradition and cultural outfits. It is the culture that raised me and there is nowhere that I stand in the world without wearing African wears,” the First Lady said.
She also commended the weavers for preserving the skill across generations, describing the craft as a sacred effort driven by love and endurance.
“These women while they hold their craft very dear, it is a spiritual thing for them, one of the good things that I saw, were young people in their families doing exact thing.”
“I love traditional outfits because our tradition, our culture tells us who we are, the moment we lose that, we won’t remember where we come from,” she observed.
Promising to upgrade the physical infrastructure of the production site, she called on prominent leaders to elevate the reach of local textiles globally.
“For the women of Akwete, I heard your cry, am here to announce to all Nigerians and the Igbo should take Akwete to the nations,” she added. “For me and all the notable sons of Igbo land, rise up to preserve this.”
The First Lady, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugo Nwanyi of Abia during the visit, was received by Abia State Governor Alex Otti, his wife Mrs. Priscilla Otti, traditional rulers, and government officials.