“I’ll wear Akwete wrapper if my husband is re-elected” — Oluremi Tinubu

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has said she will wear an Akwete wrapper if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected for a second term, praising the traditional fabric for its quality and cultural significance.

She made the remark during her maiden visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State on Tuesday, where she also announced a ₦2 billion donation to support the revitalisation of the historic weaving industry.

Speaking during the visit, the First Lady described Akwete fabric as soft, breathable and a symbol of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

“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 the exact thing. So it is a craft transferred from generation.”

Commends women preserving the craft

Oluremi Tinubu praised the women of the cooperative for preserving the centuries-old weaving tradition despite economic challenges.

She encouraged Nigerians to embrace traditional Igbo attire made from Akwete fabric as a way of supporting local artisans and sustaining indigenous craftsmanship.

The First Lady explained that she deliberately avoided delivering a formal speech because the visit was intended to be a personal interaction with the weavers.

She said her priority was to meet the women, hear their stories and appreciate their commitment to keeping the craft alive.

Praises Governor Alex Otti

Oluremi Tinubu also commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti, describing him as “a very good man.”

She recalled previously reaching out to the governor’s wife to learn more about the Akwete weaving tradition and expressed gratitude that the visit eventually became a reality.

“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.”

Calls for support for local textiles

The First Lady urged Nigerians to patronise locally produced textiles, saying doing so would help preserve indigenous cultural heritage while creating sustainable livelihoods for rural weavers.

Her visit forms part of ongoing efforts to promote Nigerian-made products and strengthen local industries through investment and increased public patronage.