Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has brought back the wearing of Adire attire in Osun State as the Governor issued a directive instructing all public officials, both appointed and elected, to wear Adire attire every Wednesday.
The circular, issued by the Head of Service, Mr Ayanleye Aina, applies to public servants across various government entities, including ministries, departments, agencies, tertiary institutions, local governments, local development councils, and area offices.
The directive designates every Wednesday as Adire Osun day, requiring accounting officers and heads of agencies to comply. Political appointees, including special advisers and other categories, are also expected to adhere to the directive as approved unanimously during the last state Executive Council meeting.
Governor Adeleke highlighted that Adire has its origins in Osun state, emphasizing that the decision aims to reassert Osun’s traditional claim to the Adire genre. The Governor recalled discussions with Ogun state Governor Dapo Abiodun, where both leaders resolved to host an annual celebration of Adire Day.
In addition to the directive, Governor Adeleke announced plans to create mini-industrial clusters to support the Adire industry and other craft sub-sectors in the state. The administration aims to foster the growth and prosperity of the Adire and other craft industries, reinforcing Osun’s cultural significance as the cradle of the Yoruba nation.
“Our administration is working on the creation of SME industrial clusters. The Adire and other craft sub-sectors will be supported to grow and flourish. By this decision, we are determined to rebuild the Adire industry that is under threat from foreign mass producers. We are poised to breathe life into our culture with Osun as the cradle of the Yoruba nation,” stated Adeleke.
