The ₦2 billion donation announced by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for the revival of Akwete weaving has sparked more than conversations about funding. It has reignited a national discussion about whether Nigeria’s indigenous crafts can become viable industries capable of creating jobs, boosting exports, and preserving cultural heritage.
During her visit to Akwete in Abia State, the First Lady announced the intervention to support the development of a modern production site for the centuries-old textile. The handwoven Akwete fabric, produced by women using cotton, raffia and silk on traditional vertical looms, is one of Nigeria’s oldest indigenous textiles but has struggled for years with declining patronage, limited production capacity and competition from imported fabrics.
Governor Alex Otti described the donation as a major boost to the state’s ongoing efforts to reposition the industry. According to him, the Abia State Government has been working with the Akwete weaving community since 2023 to remove barriers limiting production, introduce modern technology where appropriate, and improve the industry’s competitiveness in local and international markets.
But beyond the headline-grabbing donation, analysts say the bigger challenge is turning Akwete from a cultural symbol into a sustainable economic sector.
Nigeria currently imports billions of naira worth of textiles every year despite having rich indigenous fabrics such as Akwete, Aso Oke and Adire. Industry observers argue that investments in production centers, research, skills development, branding and export marketing could help local fabrics compete in premium fashion markets while creating thousands of jobs across the value chain.
The First Lady echoed that vision during her visit, urging Nigerians, especially prominent sons and daughters of the South-East, to help preserve and promote the fabric nationally.
“It is time to take Akwete fabric to the national stage,” she said while announcing the ₦2 billion intervention.
The project is expected to include upgraded production facilities and expanded opportunities for women artisans, while discussions are ongoing about establishing a larger weaving and research hub to improve quality, output and market access.
Whether the initiative becomes a lasting industrial success or another short-lived intervention will likely depend on consistent investment, transparent implementation, and sustained demand for locally made fabrics long after the headlines fade.
