Adeleke Institutionalises Adire Osun Festival as Catalyst for Cultural, Economic Growth
By Tobiloba Taiwo-Awofadeju
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has formally declared the Adire Osun Festival an annual cultural event designed to promote both the cultural heritage and economic potential of the state. The decision underscores the administration’s commitment to preserving indigenous traditions while harnessing them as tools for economic development.
Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, Governor Adeleke, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye explained that the festival would spotlight the iconic Adire textile, a historic symbol of Osun’s creativity and identity. He emphasized that Osun remains the birthplace of Aro and Adire fabric traditions, making the festival a strategic cultural initiative.
Adeleke noted that beyond celebrating heritage, the festival is expected to boost economic activities, attract domestic and international tourists, and create new job opportunities within the creative and textile sectors. He added that the event will further encourage youth participation in cultural preservation and entrepreneurship.
According to the governor, the 2025 edition of the Adire Osun Festival will feature a colorful street parade showcasing diverse Adire patterns and designs. He described the festival as a global platform for indigenous artisans, fashion designers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their work and access wider markets.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Chairman of the Osun State Council for Arts and Culture, Hon. Ebenezer Adeniji, outlined the theme for the 2025 edition: “Creating Wealth, Empowering Youths.” He affirmed that the governor’s approval of related training initiatives reflects a firm commitment to empowering young people through skills that preserve cultural heritage.
Adeniji stressed that for Osun’s culture and traditions to thrive beyond the present generation, young people must be properly equipped and meaningfully engaged. He urged youths across the state to take advantage of the opportunities embedded within the festival’s programmes.
The Executive Secretary of the Council, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Ajibade, revealed that efforts are underway to establish Adire consultation and training hubs in Osogbo, Ede, and Ile-Ife. According to her, these centers supported by the state government will serve as incubators for emerging designers and a resource base for strengthening the Adire value chain.
Ajibade called on stakeholders and residents within and outside Osun State to support and participate in the annual festival, noting that “Adire Osun” is poised to become a signature cultural brand for the state.
The press conference was attended by government officials, management and staff of the Council for Arts and Culture, and representatives of Aka compound in Osogbo and Akoda compound in Ede, among others.


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