Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has unveiled the OneNigeria/UnityFabric, a powerful symbol of national unity designed by 25-year-old Mofinyinfoluwa Bamidele, a University of Ibadan graduate. Bamidele won a fabric design competition organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), chaired by Tinubu, and took home a prize of ₦25 million.
Inspiration Behind the National Fabric
The concept of a national fabric was inspired by Tinubu’s visit to Zimbabwe in December 2023, where she saw a similar initiative. She was impressed by the unity and sense of national identity that the fabric represented and decided to replicate the idea in Nigeria.
The Design Competition
The OneNigeria/UnityFabric competition was launched in February 2024, calling on youths aged 15-25 to create a design representing Nigeria’s unity. The competition received an overwhelming response, with 111 entries submitted from across the country and the diaspora. A panel of judges, including renowned fashion icon Princess Zainab Abba Folawiyo and international textile fashion designer Miss Banke Kuku, selected the best design.
The Winning Design
Bamidele’s design was chosen for its unique representation of Nigeria’s cultural diversity and unity. The design incorporates various elements that reflect the country’s rich heritage and symbolize the coming together of its people.
Tinubu’s Remarks
At the unveiling ceremony, Tinubu expressed her joy and pride in the initiative. “Today, my heart is filled with joy as we have just witnessed the unveiling of the #OneNigeriaUnity Fabric, the announcement of the winner of the competition, and the presentation of the prize ceremony. I say big congratulations to Miss Bamidele Mufiyinfoluwa; she did quite a fantastic job.”
Objectives of the Initiative
The OneNigeria/UnityFabric initiative aims to:
1. Promote national unity and identity
2. Encourage creativity and innovation among Nigerian youths
3. Support local textile industries and create jobs
4. Foster a sense of national pride and belonging
Mass Production and Distribution
The fabric will be mass-produced by local manufacturers to stimulate local textile industries, create jobs, and boost the economy. The fabric will be distributed across the country, with significant allocations to Lagos, Kano, and Abuja.
Celebrating Independence Day
The new national fabric will be worn across the country to celebrate the Independence Day Anniversary on October 1, 2024.
Renewed Hope Agenda
The project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on fostering creativity, supporting local enterprises, and celebrating national identity and unity.
Event Attendees
The unveiling ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country, including wives of governors, leaders of the National Assembly, and security chiefs. Other notable attendees included former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Dimeji Bankole; former First Ladies, including Mrs. Ajoke Muritala Muhammad; Justice Fati Lami Abubakar; and Dame Patience Jonathan.
The OneNigeria/UnityFabric initiative is a significant step towards promoting national unity and identity in Nigeria. The project has the potential to bring Nigerians together, foster creativity and innovation, and support local industries. As the country celebrates its independence, the OneNigeria/UnityFabric will serve as a powerful symbol of national unity and pride.
