Abia State Hosts First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, as She Donates N2 Billion for Akwete Fabric Development and Receives Prestigious Traditional Title
Abia State Hosts First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, as She Donates N2 Billion for Akwete Fabric Development and Receives Prestigious Traditional Title
The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti, alongside former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, and other distinguished dignitaries, warmly welcomed the Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, on her special visit to Abia State to meet and interact with the renowned Akwete women, whose exceptional craftsmanship has made the iconic Akwete fabric one of Nigeria's most treasured handwoven textiles.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti and Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti for their commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Akwete to the world. He commended the state government's efforts in bringing renewed attention to the historic weaving community and creating opportunities for its growth and global recognition.
Dr. Ogah also conveyed his profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their visit and for investing in the future of Abia State through meaningful support for the Akwete weaving industry. He described the intervention as a visionary step that would strengthen local enterprise, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of countless women and families who depend on the craft.
He paid glowing tribute to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her steadfast belief in Nigeria's rich cultural values and indigenous industries, praising her unwavering commitment to empowering women, preserving the nation's heritage, and championing initiatives that promote inclusive economic growth. According to him, her support for the Akwete weaving industry demonstrates exceptional leadership, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the importance of preserving cultural identity while creating sustainable opportunities for future generations.
The visit underscored the Federal Government's commitment to preserving Nigeria's rich cultural heritage while promoting local industries capable of driving economic growth, empowering women, and creating sustainable livelihoods.
During the visit, Senator Oluremi Tinubu announced a landmark donation of N2 billion to the Abia State Government to support the development and expansion of the Akwete weaving industry. The intervention is aimed at upgrading the Akwete production hub, enhancing the skills and productivity of local weavers, creating employment opportunities, and positioning the famous Akwete fabric for greater national and international recognition.
Speaking during the event in Aba, the First Lady emphasized that the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to empower women, preserve Nigeria's cultural heritage, and stimulate economic development through indigenous industries with significant growth potential. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting initiatives that improve the lives of women, strengthen local economies, and preserve the nation's unique cultural identity for generations to come.
In recognition of her outstanding commitment to women's empowerment, cultural preservation, and national development, the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers conferred on Senator Oluremi Tinubu the prestigious traditional title of Ugo Nwanyi Abia (The Pride of Abia Women). The honour reflects the deep appreciation of the people of Abia for her unwavering support for initiatives that uplift women, preserve cultural heritage, and strengthen local communities.
The event marked another significant milestone in the partnership between the Federal Government and Abia State in promoting indigenous enterprise, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering inclusive economic development. It also reinforced the shared commitment of both governments and stakeholders to ensuring that the centuries-old Akwete weaving tradition continues to flourish as a source of pride, economic prosperity, and cultural identity for present and future generations

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