APC chieftain Mary Ikoku welcomes Remi Tinubu to Abia

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and Founder of the Mary Ikoku Foundation (MIF), Mary Ikoku, has welcomed the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, to Abia state, describing the visit as a significant demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to women empowerment, cultural preservation and grassroots economic development.

Ikoku said the First Lady’s visit to the state on Tuesday July 21, 2026 reflects the growing recognition of the vital contributions of women, artisans and indigenous industries to national development, noting that such engagements would further encourage investments in local enterprises and promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Blueprint reports

Recognition for Akwete weaving heritage

The APC chieftain particularly commended Senator Tinubu for including the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Society in her itinerary, describing the decision as a major boost for one of Nigeria’s oldest and most celebrated traditional industries.

She noted that Akwete weaving has, over the years, remained a symbol of creativity, resilience and cultural identity for the people of Abia State, adding that the First Lady’s visit has brought deserved national attention to the community and its enormous economic potential.

According to her, the recognition would not only preserve the centuries old weaving tradition but also open new opportunities for women and young people engaged in the craft.

Celebrating women artisans

Ikoku stated that the First Lady’s engagement with members of the Akwete Weaving Cooperative Society represents a celebration of the generations of women whose dedication and craftsmanship have sustained the indigenous textile industry over the years.

She stressed that recognising the contributions of women artisans would inspire renewed interest in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage while encouraging younger generations to embrace indigenous skills that have the capacity to create wealth and employment.

She added that empowering women through such initiatives remains essential to sustainable economic growth and inclusive national development.

Civic reception commendable

The APC stalwart also welcomed the planned civic reception organised in honour of the First Lady, describing it as an opportunity for the people of Abia State to showcase their rich cultural heritage and reaffirm their commitment to national unity.

She said the event would provide a platform to celebrate the achievements of women, promote local enterprise and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving the socio economic wellbeing of communities across the state.

According to Ikoku, gatherings of this nature also create opportunities for dialogue on policies and programmes that support women, youth and vulnerable groups.

Commends Otti, wife

Ikoku commended Governor Alex Otti, and the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, for receiving the nation’s First Lady and ensuring a successful visit.

She said the warm reception extended to Senator Oluremi Tinubu reflects the hospitality of the people of Abia state and demonstrates the willingness of the state government to collaborate with the Federal Government on initiatives that promote development and improve the lives of citizens.

A call for greater investment

Speaking on the importance of preserving indigenous industries, Ikoku said the promotion of cultural heritage must go hand in hand with economic empowerment.

According to her, “When we preserve our heritage while creating opportunities for women to thrive economically, we strengthen both our communities and our nation. I am delighted that Akwete, with its rich weaving tradition, is receiving this well deserved national recognition.”

She expressed optimism that the First Lady’s visit would attract greater public and private sector investment in indigenous industries, create more economic opportunities for women artisans and strengthen community based development initiatives across Abia State.

A successful visit wish for the First Lady

Ikoku wished Senator Oluremi Tinubu a fruitful and memorable stay in Abia state, expressing confidence that the visit would further inspire hope among women and encourage greater support for local industries.

She prayed for a successful engagement between the First Lady and the people of the state, saying the visit would leave lasting benefits for women, artisans and communities across Abia.

“Your Excellency, welcome to Abia State, God’s Own State. May your visit further inspire hope, strengthen our women and celebrate the enduring spirit of our people,” she said.