Nigeria’s, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has donated N2 billion for the development of the Akwete fabric production in Abia State.
Senior Special Assistant (Media) to the First Lady, Busola Kukoyi stated this a press release on Mrs. Tinubu’s visit to the Akwete production site in Abia State.
Speaking to the people during the visit, Senator Tinubu said Nigeria’s rich heritage should be preserved for posterity and prosperity.
She said that the tradition of the Akwete handmade fabric is dear to the hearts of the women who makes it, adding that they should be encouraged to pass it on to the next generation.
”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 fabrics.
”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.”
Senator Tinubu added that the craft was transferred from generation to generation which she commended.
“It is a sacred craft done with love, patience, endurance and that should not be desecrated. When we saw a building there, we said we would lift the structure. We can build on it, which will tell the story.
”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. For me and all the notable sons of Igbo land, rise up to preserve this”.
The First Lady had earlier been conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugo Nwanyi of Abia.
She was received at the historic production site of the hand-woven Akwete fabric by Abia State Governor, Alex Otti and his wife,
Mrs Priscilla Otti, traditional rulers from across the State, notable politicians, clergy men and women among others.
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