Igbo youths under the aegis of Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), on Wednesday praised first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her landmark donation of N2 billion towards the revival, promotion, and expansion of the historic Akwete fabric industry in Abia State.

They said the intervention is not merely a financial contribution but a bold investment in the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage,  empowerment of women,  creation of employment opportunities, and the economic renaissance of the most treasured indigenous industries in Igboland.

COSEYL National Leader, Goodluck Ibem, said in a statement that Akwete fabric is more than a woven textile.

” It is a symbol of the ingenuity, resilience, creativity, and rich cultural identity of Ndigbo. For centuries, the women of Akwete have preserved this unique craft despite enormous challenges. Their dedication has kept alive a heritage that deserves global recognition and commercial success”, he noted.

He added that the group believes that Senator Oluremi Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon patriotism and respect for the cultural heritage of the South East by making her significant investment.

“Her gesture deserves the appreciation of all lovers of culture, economic development, and national unity. We congratulate her on the well-deserved traditional title of “Ugo Nwanyi Abia” bestowed upon her by the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, as it reflects her commitment to the advancement of women and indigenous enterprise”, he added

While applauding her, the group called on Governor Alex Otti, to ensure that the Akwete fabric industry is transformed into a globally competitive economic powerhouse.

They said the N2 billion intervention should serve as a catalyst for the establishment of a world-class Akwete Textile and Cultural Hub equipped with modern production facilities, skill acquisition centres, quality control laboratories, marketing platforms, export support services, and tourism infrastructure.

“The industry should be repositioned to compete with internationally celebrated textiles while retaining its unique traditional identity.

“We urge the Abia State Government to put in place transparent and sustainable mechanisms that will ensure the funds directly benefit genuine Akwete weavers, expand production capacity, empower young artisans, encourage innovation, and preserve the authenticity of the centuries-old craft for generations yet unborn”, he added

Ibem urged wealthy Igbo sons and daughters, corporate organisations, financial institutions, development partners, fashion designers, textile manufacturers, and private investors to invest massively in the Akwete fabric industry.

” This is not simply an investment in textiles; it is an investment in culture, tourism, entrepreneurship, export promotion, youth employment, women’s economic empowerment, and regional economic development.

“The global fashion industry continues to embrace authentic African fabrics. Akwete has every potential to become one of Nigeria’s foremost cultural exports if supported with adequate investment, modern technology, branding, and international marketing.

“We also encourage our youths across the South East to embrace Akwete fabric with pride. Let us wear it during weddings, traditional ceremonies, cultural festivals, official functions, and social events. Cultural preservation begins with deliberate patronage. Every piece of Akwete fabric worn proudly is a statement that our heritage remains alive and valuable”, he added.