Nigeria: Akwete Weavers Carry An Igbo Textile Tradition Into Modern Fashion

What the report says

A report from Bird Story Agency, republished by AllAfrica, says Akwete cloth in southeastern Nigeria is being reworked for modern fashion and classroom use as weavers, educators and heritage experts try to keep the Igbo textile tradition alive. The handwoven fabric, long associated with wrappers and ceremonial wear, is still produced in communities around Akwete town in Abia State, where artisans such as Uchechi Ahunanya continue family weaving practices passed down through generations.

The article describes how makers are adapting Akwete into tops, trousers, skirts, blouses and gowns, while also experimenting with lighter versions for Nigeria’s warm climate. It notes that the cloth remains labour-intensive and relatively expensive compared with factory-made or imported textiles, which has weakened demand. Akwete prices quoted in the report range from about ₦80,000 to ₦200,000 depending on material and design complexity. Heritage officials say cheaper imports and changing livelihoods have reduced the number of young people learning the craft.

The piece also highlights the cultural meaning of the fabric’s motifs, which can signal identity, status or ceremonial use. Educators at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike in Ebonyi State are teaching students to weave and study indigenous textiles through a Centre of Indigenous Textile, with the aim of linking tradition to entrepreneurship and design. In the broader Nigerian fashion scene, the article says there is growing interest in integrating handwoven textiles such as Akwete, aso oke and adire into contemporary clothing and accessories.