Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said she will wear a buba and wrapper made from Akwete fabric if her husband, President Bola Tinubu, wins the 2027 presidential election for a second term.
She made the statement on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, during her visit to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Village in Abia State, where she announced a N2 billion donation to support the revitalisation of the local weaving industry.
“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,” she said.
The First Lady praised the quality and cultural significance of Akwete fabrics, describing traditional clothing as an important part of Nigeria’s identity.
“I am in awe of all the richness of what the Akwete fabrics stand for. 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,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of preserving the weaving tradition, which has been passed down through generations.
“The craft was transferred from generation to generation. It is a sacred craft done with love, patience, and endurance,” she said.
Oluremi Tinubu encouraged the women involved in Akwete weaving to continue teaching younger generations, noting that the handmade fabric remains an important part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
