The colourful atmosphere at the Igala Tribe Fashion Stretch Drive recently transformed into a powerful reflection on value, heritage, and the growing appreciation for indigenous craftsmanship in Nigeria. What began as a casual conversation over the price of a traditional Achi cap soon became a deeper discourse on the economics of culture and the need to preserve the authenticity of local fashion.
During the showcase, a curious customer approached a vendor displaying a vibrant collection of Achi materials — the iconic fabric synonymous with Igala pride. When the customer asked for the price, the vendor responded, “₦7,000.” But almost immediately, a passerby interjected, saying, “This is not more than ₦3,000 at Area 1.”
That unexpected remark ignited a moment of reflection among onlookers. The vendor, maintaining his calm, offered an explanation that resonated deeply:
“The price of Achi is based on its quality. A yard costs ₦4,500 and can only make one cap. When you pay for Achi, you’re not just buying fabric — you’re supporting craftsmanship, culture, and identity.”
He further emphasized that his Achi material is of premium quality — woven with precision and designed to reflect the true colours and values of the Igala people. “My Achi is not just a class of its own; it reflects the true Igala attires, colour, and values,” he said proudly.
Among those captivated by the scene was Mr. Celestine Ukpong, an economist and friend of the Igala tribe, who shared his admiration for the tribe’s determination to uphold their cultural and economic identity through fashion.
In his reflection, Ukpong noted that the Achi fabric represents more than attire — it symbolizes resilience, value appreciation, and the reawakening of Nigeria’s creative economy.
“What we are seeing here is not just a marketplace argument,” Ukpong observed. “It’s an illustration of the broader Nigerian story — where we must learn to value what we produce. The Igala people, through their fashion, are reminding us that originality and quality are worth every naira.”
He praised the Igala Fashion Stretch Drive for its role in reviving cultural consciousness while promoting economic empowerment through local production. According to Ukpong, initiatives like this demonstrate how traditional industries can thrive in a modern economy by blending culture, entrepreneurship, and pride of origin.
As Nigeria continues to pursue diversification away from oil dependence, the economist believes that cultural industries — including fashion — will play an essential role in generating sustainable income, creating jobs, and strengthening national identity.
“Every thread of Achi tells a story,” Ukpong concluded. “And every purchase is an investment in our collective heritage.”
The Achi fabric, distinct in its patterns and deep symbolism, continues to draw admiration from across Nigeria and beyond. Its bold design and premium texture have made it not only a fashion statement but also a piece of living history — representing unity, pride, and the elegance of the Igala people.
The event’s success underscores a larger message: true value lies not in imitation or price comparisons but in authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural pride.
The Igala Tribe Fashion Stretch Drive celebrates cultural pride and craftsmanship through the Achi fabric. Economist Celestine Ukpong commends the tribe’s commitment to quality and authenticity, calling it a model for cultural and economic revival in Nigeria.
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