A combined photo of Governor Seyi Makinde and Aso Oke
By Akeem Atoyebi
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has given directive to all civil and public servants in the state to wear native attires with a touch of traditional ‘Aso Oke’ every Thursday, in addition to the existing native Friday tradition.
The announcement of the approval of the new dress code was stated in a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service to heads of ministries and agencies on January 27, 2025.
“Every Thursday and Friday, our workforce will become ambassadors of tradition and catalysts for economic transformation,” the directive stated.
The circular states that the policy “is not just about dressing; it’s a strategic effort to validate our cultural identity while uplifting grassroots economies.”
It is also reportedly geared towards preserving the Yoruba culture, empowering local artisans, boosting the informal economy, as well as showcasing and preserving the state’s vibrant cultural heritage.
The governor also stated that the directive will support local weavers, dyers, and tailors, thereby “sustaining livelihoods, reducing unemployment, and increasing income streams for artisans.”
He stated that his administration projects that the directive will increase demand for the fabrics, enhance growth in the informal sector, bolster tourism, and foster inclusive development.
Aso-Oke, meaning “top cloth” in Yoruba, has long been a symbol of prestige, traditionally woven from cotton or silk and worn for significant ceremonies such as weddings and chieftaincy titles. However, in recent years, it has gained global recognition, with luxury fashion designers incorporating it into high-end clothing lines and accessories.
Beyond its cultural significance, Aso-Oke is also a sustainable fabric, made from natural materials with minimal industrial waste.
The Aso-Oke industry currently supports over 50,000 artisans across key weaving hubs like Iseyin, Oyo, and Ilorin. The intricate handwoven process, which can take up to three weeks depending on the design’s complexity, continues to drive economic growth.
In 2023 alone, Aso-Oke exports rose by 15%, generating approximately $120 million in foreign exchange revenue.
As the sustainable fashion industry is projected to reach $12 billion by 2028, Aso-Oke has the potential to become Nigeria’s next major export success.
