Osun State Governor, Asiwaju Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has declared the Osun Adire Festival an annual event, unveiling a new logo to mark the occasion. The announcement was made during the 2024 Osun Adire Festival held at the Adolak Event Centre, Osogbo, amidst a gathering of notable dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts.
In his address, Governor Adeleke emphasized Osun’s historical and cultural leadership in Adire, a traditional Yoruba textile art. “Osun is the originator of Adire; other states are following in our footsteps. Osogbo and Ede are the true homes of Adire, and it is time to reclaim our position as the cultural capital of this art form,” he said.
The Governor also highlighted the economic and cultural potential of Adire, encouraging Osun residents to wear Adire fabrics every Wednesday as part of his administration’s drive to preserve and promote Yoruba culture. “Adire is more than a fabric; it is our identity and heritage. Let us celebrate and showcase it with pride,” he urged.
A Platform for Creativity and Empowerment
The festival featured a special lecture by Professor Makinde, who reiterated Osun’s central role in the Adire tradition. He noted that Osun remains the birthplace of Adire, a legacy that needs to be reclaimed and celebrated. Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, a prominent figure in the local Adire community, commended the state government for creating opportunities for artisans and youths to thrive through the festival.
The Governor also launched an online platform, bit.ly/osuncreate, to connect Adire artisans and enthusiasts globally. The platform offers a space for collaboration, skill development, and the promotion of Adire artistry, ensuring Osun’s leadership in the industry remains unchallenged.
Vision for the Future
Governor Adeleke’s administration has ambitious plans to leverage Adire as a tool for cultural revival and economic growth. Initiatives include the creation of SME industrial clusters to support Adire production and other crafts in Osun. He emphasized the importance of building a sustainable framework for the festival, modeled after globally recognized events like the Calabar Carnival.
“This festival is not just about celebrating the past; it is about creating a brighter future,” Adeleke stated. “We aim to develop a carnival that will elevate Osun’s cultural and creative trajectory in the years to come.”
With the adoption of Adire Wednesdays and the institutionalization of the festival as an annual event, the state is poised to become a hub of cultural excellence, tourism, and creativity. Osun Adire Festival is set to empower local artisans, attract global attention, and solidify Osun’s position as the cultural heartbeat of the Yoruba nation.
