By Florencemary Nwabueze
Political leaders and youth organizations have joined forces to commend Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her historic visit to Akwete and her pledge of N2 billion to revitalize the centuries-old textile industry.
The Akwete weaving tradition, practiced for generations in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, stands as one of Nigeria's oldest indigenous textile crafts. The intricate handwoven fabric, known for its distinctive patterns and cultural significance, has been sustained primarily by women who have passed the craft down through generations.
However, the industry has faced mounting challenges in recent years, including competition from mass-produced textiles, limited access to modern equipment, and declining interest among younger generations.
Former Senate President Senator Adolphus Wabara, who serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and an illustrious son of Ukwa East, described the First Lady's intervention as "a significant boost to the preservation of the centuries-old Akwete textile tradition and the economic empowerment of the women who have sustained the craft over the years."
"Ak-wete fabric is a priceless cultural asset and a symbol of the ingenuity, resilience and creativity of the Igbo people," Wabara stated, urging all stakeholders to ensure the intervention translates into sustainable development.
Ambassador Okey Emuchay, former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and Nigeria's former High Commissioner to South Africa, also an indigene of Ukwa East hailed the First Lady's commitment, described the initiative as "a timely investment in one of Nigeria's oldest indigenous industries" that would create fresh opportunities for economic empowerment, particularly for women and young people.
He further expressed optimism that the initiative would reposition Akwete fabric for greater national and international recognition.
The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex socio-political youth organization in the region, issued a separate statement urging Governor Otti to leverage the intervention by transforming the weaving industry into a globally competitive textile hub.
COSEYL President General Comrade Goodluck Ibem described the donation as "a strategic investment in preserving Nigeria's cultural heritage, creating jobs and expanding one of the South-East's most treasured indigenous industries."
The youth body congratulated Senator Tinubu on the traditional title of "Ugo Nwanyi Abia" (Eagle Woman of Abia) conferred on her by the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, describing the honor as well deserved.
All stakeholders emphasized the need for transparent utilization of the funds. Wabara specifically called on the Abia State Government to ensure the money is used to modernize the industry, expand production, empower genuine weavers, and preserve the authenticity of the centuries-old craft.
COSEYL went further, urging the government to establish a world-class Akwete Textile and Cultural Hub equipped with modern production facilities, skill acquisition centers, quality control laboratories, export support services, and tourism infrastructure.
The youth leaders expressed optimism that with sustained investment, improved technology, and effective international marketing, Akwete fabric could emerge as one of Nigeria's leading cultural exports, generating employment, boosting tourism, and projecting Igbo culture on the global stage.
The group also appealed to wealthy Igbo sons and daughters, corporate organizations, financial institutions, fashion designers, and private investors to support the industry.
COSEYL encouraged people across the South-East to embrace Akwete fabric by wearing it during weddings, traditional ceremonies, cultural festivals, and official functions, noting that increased patronage would help preserve and promote the region's cultural heritage.