Tinubu’s Wife Calls for Stronger Support for Made-in-Nigeria Fabrics During Visit to Abia’s Akwete Weaving Centre

Akwete, Abia State — Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has renewed calls for greater public support for locally produced textiles, saying increased patronage of indigenous fabrics could stimulate industrial growth, expand employment opportunities, and strengthen the country’s manufacturing sector.

Speaking during a visit to the renowned Akwete weaving community in Abia State on Tuesday, Mrs. Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to embrace locally made fabrics as an important step toward reducing dependence on imported clothing while promoting homegrown industries.

The First Lady toured the traditional hand-weaving production facilities, where she observed the craftsmanship that has made Akwete fabric one of Nigeria’s most recognized indigenous textiles. During the inspection, she stressed that strengthening local production would create more jobs, particularly for women who make up a significant portion of the workforce in the textile value chain.

Local Textile Industry Seen as a Tool for Job Creation

Mrs. Tinubu said initiatives that empower women and create sustainable employment remain a priority, noting that investments in indigenous industries can contribute to poverty reduction across communities.

She also expressed support for plans to modernize equipment used in Akwete fabric production. According to her, financial assistance already provided for the Akwete research and production centre should be effectively utilized to improve production capacity, enhance product quality, and benefit women involved in the industry.

The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to preserve one of Nigeria’s oldest traditional weaving industries while exploring ways to make it more competitive in both domestic and international markets.

Traditional Recognition and National Unity Message

During the visit, Abia traditional rulers honoured the First Lady with a chieftaincy title in recognition of her support for the state’s cultural and economic initiatives.

Addressing community leaders and residents, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity among Nigerians across ethnic and cultural backgrounds. She said stronger collaboration among the Igbo, Yoruba, and other ethnic groups could help expand Nigeria’s local clothing industry by encouraging wider acceptance and patronage of indigenous fabrics nationwide.

APC Leaders Link Textile Support to Poverty Reduction

Speaking at the event, Abia State APC Women’s Leader, Cecilia Erondu, described the First Lady’s support for the Akwete textile industry as part of broader efforts aimed at tackling poverty and unemployment through economic empowerment.

She also commended Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for his role in mobilizing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State ahead of future political activities, expressing confidence about the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Why Akwete Fabric Matters

Akwete fabric is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated traditional handwoven textiles, originating from Akwete in Abia State. The centuries-old craft is widely recognized for its intricate patterns and durable quality, with production largely driven by skilled women artisans.

Despite its cultural significance, Nigeria’s textile industry has experienced decades of decline due to rising imports, inadequate industrial infrastructure, smuggling, and limited investment. Stakeholders have consistently argued that increased consumer support for locally manufactured products, combined with government-backed modernization initiatives, could help revive the sector and create thousands of new jobs.

What Happens Next?

The First Lady’s visit is expected to draw renewed attention to efforts aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s indigenous textile industry. Industry observers will likely watch for further investments in modern production facilities, expanded training for local weavers, and policies that encourage wider use of Made-in-Nigeria fabrics across public and private institutions.

If successfully implemented, such initiatives could strengthen local manufacturing, preserve cultural heritage, and improve livelihoods for artisans across the country.