Adire makers seek Osun govt support for production hub

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Adire Eleko Osun Association has urged the Osun State Government to establish an Adire Osun Hub as a strategic step towards large-scale production of indigenous Adire fabrics and the revitalisation of the industry for sustainable economic growth.

The call was contained in a statement signed by the association’s President, Mr Ganiyu Ibikunle, who described the proposed hub as a production and processing centre that would transform Adire Osun fabrics into export-ready products such as bags, slippers, shoes and ready-to-wear garments.

Mr Ibikunle said the establishment of the hub would enhance rebranding, standardisation and packaging of Adire Osun products for both domestic and international markets, while reversing the steady decline of the industry caused by years of neglect and the influx of counterfeit Adire products from other states.

He noted that similar Adire hubs are already operational in neighbouring south-western states, including Ekiti, Ogun and Lagos, adding that Osun State, as the historical origin of Adire in Yorubaland, should assume leadership in its revival and industrial development.

The association lamented that since 1999, successive administrations in Osun State have paid little attention to the creation of an Adire Osun Hub, despite the sector’s proven potential to generate revenue, stimulate economic activity and create employment.

According to the association, investing in the full value chain of the Adire industry would help to preserve Osun State’s cultural heritage, empower local artisans and address the growing challenge of youth unemployment.

The association further appealed for an opportunity to engage with the Governor to discuss the challenges confronting the Adire industry in the state, its ongoing programmes and areas of collaboration in support of the current administration’s development agenda.

It also stated that the association serves as the umbrella body for professional Adire makers in Osun State, comprising experienced artisans involved in batik, Adire Eleko and tie-and-dye production, offering skills training to residents, and duly registered with the Osun State Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Cooperatives as well as the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.