By Bolanle Lawal
The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has paid a working visit to the Adire Ekiti Hub to reaffirm the state government’s commitment to promote indigenous textile production and to strengthen cultural heritage.
Dr. Oyebanji expressed appreciation to customers across Nigeria and beyond for their continued patronage, wishing them a prosperous year.
She also commended the director of the hub for her dedication and effective leadership in advancing the Adire initiative and to showcase Ekiti’s rich cultural identity.
The First Lady encouraged residents and patrons worldwide to support the hub by purchasing quality Adire fabrics at affordable prices, noting that such patronage would empower local artisans and sustain indigenous craftsmanship.
Dr Oyebanji disclosed that the Widows, Orphans and the Hopeless (WAOH) Project under her office supports the Adire Ekiti Hub as part of its empowerment drive, creating training opportunities for women and young people through skill acquisition initiatives.
According to her, Adire not only preserves cultural heritage but also drives economic growth, adding that she serves as an ambassador for the hub to promote its products and brand visibility.
Highlighting the youth empowerment component of the initiative, Dr. Oyebanji noted that students undertaking their Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at the hub have gained valuable hands-on experience in textile production and design.
She however encouraged more students to take advantage of similar opportunities.
One of the SIWES trainees who spoke on behalf of others, Miss Aishat Joy, shared her experience, praising the practical exposure she has received at no cost.
She revealed that the training has enabled her to learn fabric customization, pattern creation and creative blending of textile materials, describing the hub as a platform committed to empower young people with relevant skills.
