Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, unveiled the “One Nigeria Unity Ankara” on Monday, September 16, 2024. The unveiling ceremony took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
The Ankara fabric, designed by 25-year-old Miss Mofinyinfoluwa Bamidele, a graduate of the University of Ibadan, emerged as the winning entry in a nationwide competition organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), chaired by the First Lady. Bamidele’s design was selected from 111 entries by a panel of judges, including renowned fashion icon Princess Zainab Abba Folawiyo and international textile designer Miss Banke Kuku.
In her keynote address, Senator Tinubu explained that the concept of a national unity fabric was inspired by her visit to Zimbabwe in December 2023, where she encountered a similar initiative. She emphasized that the fabric symbolizes Nigeria’s cultural diversity and the breaking down of tribal barriers to foster a sense of national identity.
The competition, launched in February 2024, called on Nigerian youths aged 15-25 to create a design that would represent the unity of the nation. The winner, Miss Bamidele, was awarded a prize of ₦25 million.
“Today, my heart is filled with joy as we witness the unveiling of the One Nigeria Unity Ankara and the announcement of the competition winner,” said Senator Tinubu. “This fabric is a testament to our collective creativity and our commitment to unity as a nation.”
The event was attended by dignitaries, including the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, and other members of the RHI Governing Board. The unveiling of the One Nigeria Unity Ankara marks a significant step towards fostering national unity and celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
