The Abia State Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Lady Chino Cecilia Erondu, has commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her visit to Akwete community in Ukwa East Local Government Area and her ₦2 billion donation to boost the renowned Akwete fabric industry.

Speaking on behalf of female members of the party, Lady Erondu described the First Lady’s maiden visit to Abia State as historic and impactful, noting that the intervention would significantly strengthen the indigenous textile industry, which has for decades been sustained largely by women.

She expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu for choosing the remote oil-producing community for the visit and for announcing the ₦2 billion support aimed at expanding Akwete fabric production and empowering women economically.
Lady Erondu also praised the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and leader of the APC in Abia State, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for what she described as his inclusive and unifying leadership.

Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the First Lady’s visit, she said Kalu had successfully strengthened party unity, eliminated internal divisions and positioned the APC for greater political success in the state.

According to her, “The unity currently enjoyed by the APC in Abia is a direct result of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s wisdom and commitment to carrying everyone along. His focus has always been on the welfare, growth and progress of party members.”

The APC women leader further applauded the First Lady’s commitment to women empowerment, particularly her assurance that women, irrespective of political affiliation, who are interested in learning Akwete fabric production and other vocational skills, would benefit from the planned expansion of the industry.

She noted that the ₦2 billion intervention has the potential to revitalise the local textile industry, create employment opportunities and improve the livelihoods of women through increased production and value addition.

Lady Erondu, however, urged APC members, especially women in the state, to remain united and avoid distractions from divisive comments by individuals.

“I encourage all APC members to remain steadfast and work collectively to further strengthen our party ahead of future political engagements. I am confident that through unity, commitment and purposeful leadership, the APC will continue to record greater successes in Abia State,” she said.