First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has unveiled the OneNigeria/Unity Fabric, describing it as a symbol of national unity. The fabric, designed by 25-year-old Miss Mofinyinfoluwa Bamidele, a University of Ibadan graduate, emerged victorious in a national competition organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). Bamidele walked away with a ₦25 million prize for her winning design.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, which took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, the First Lady explained that the idea for a national fabric was inspired by a similar initiative she encountered during her visit to Zimbabwe in December 2023. The competition, launched in February 2024, called on Nigerian youths aged 15-25 to create a design that embodies the unity of the country.
“Today, my heart is filled with joy as we unveil the OneNigeria/Unity Fabric and announce the winner. I say big congratulations to Miss Bamidele for her fantastic job,” Senator Tinubu remarked during the event.
A panel of judges, including renowned fashion icons such as Princess Zainab Abba Folawiyo and international textile designer Miss Banke Kuku, selected the design from 111 entries after a rigorous review process.
The fabric is expected to be mass-produced by local manufacturers, stimulating the local textile industry, creating jobs, and boosting the economy. Senator Tinubu also announced that the fabric would be worn nationwide during the Independence Day celebrations on October 1, 2024.
