Abia Governor Otti Unveils Plan to Boost Akwete Weaving Industry

The Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, has initiated efforts to revamp the Akwete weaving industry. This move aims to eliminate long-standing obstacles hindering the industry's growth and position it as a competitive indigenous textile enterprise on the global stage. Governor Otti disclosed this during a visit by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and his wife, Priscilla Otti, to the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Society in Ukwa East Local Government Area. Otti emphasized that his administration has been working tirelessly to remove barriers that have limited the industry's growth since assuming office. He also expressed his desire to collaborate with the First Lady to establish a world-class production hub for local weavers, which would enable them to compete favorably with machine-made products from countries like India and China. The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for implementing economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira, which have increased resources available for infrastructure development. Earlier, Priscilla Otti described the First Lady's visit as a historic milestone and praised the Renewed Hope Initiative for its interventions in women empowerment and support for small businesses. Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of 'Ugonwanyi' by the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, announced a ₦2 billion donation towards the revitalization of the Akwete weaving industry and pledged to promote the locally woven fabric. The First Lady expressed her admiration for the Akwete fabric, describing it as 'very soft, breathable cotton.' She also noted that the craft has been transferred from generation to generation, with young people in the community actively involved in the weaving process.