Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a new directive mandating all civil and public servants in the state to wear the traditional Yoruba fabric, ‘aso oke,’ every Thursday. This move, according to the state government, is aimed at preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people while boosting local businesses and artisans.
The directive, which was officially communicated through a circular from the Office of the Head of Service, comes as an expansion of the already existing policy that encourages workers to wear native attire on Fridays.
According to the circular, “This initiative is designed to showcase and preserve Oyo State’s vibrant cultural heritage while also creating economic opportunities for local artisans, particularly weavers, dyers, and tailors.”
A Cultural and Economic Strategy
Governor Makinde’s administration has framed this policy not just as a cultural statement but as a strategic economic intervention. By enforcing the weekly wearing of aso oke, the government aims to increase demand for the fabric, thereby driving economic activity in the informal sector.
Local textile workers, particularly those in areas like Oyo, Iseyin, and Ogbomoso—renowned hubs for aso oke production—are expected to see a rise in patronage. Experts believe this could be a game-changer for small-scale businesses in the traditional textile industry, which has been struggling due to modern fashion trends and cheap imports.
“This is a well-thought-out policy that will directly benefit our local economy,” said a government official familiar with the development. “Weavers, dyers, and fashion designers will experience a boost in their businesses as civil servants begin to purchase aso oke more regularly.”
Aso Oke: More Than Just Fabric
Aso oke, a handwoven textile native to the Yoruba people, holds deep cultural and historical significance. Often reserved for special occasions like weddings, coronations, and festivals, the fabric is seen as a symbol of prestige and heritage. By integrating it into everyday professional wear, the government hopes to redefine its role in contemporary society.
The announcement has generated mixed reactions among civil servants. While some have welcomed the initiative as a positive step towards cultural revival, others have expressed concerns about affordability.
However, some workers see it as an opportunity to reconnect with their roots. With the policy now in place, experts say its long-term success will depend on how well it is implemented. Some have called on the government to partner with local textile cooperatives to ensure affordability and accessibility for all workers.
Additionally, there are suggestions that the policy could extend beyond the public sector to private organizations, schools, and cultural institutions.
Preserving Culture While Boosting the Economy
Governor Makinde has built a reputation for policies that integrate economic development with cultural preservation. Under his administration, the state has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting Yoruba heritage, including support for traditional festivals and the revitalization of historical sites.
With ‘Aso Oke Thursdays’ now a reality, observers say it will be interesting to see how the policy evolves in the coming months. Will it spark a broader cultural renaissance, or will it face resistance from those who see it as an additional burden? Only time will tell.
For now, Oyo’s civil servants will have to embrace their new role as ambassadors of Yoruba tradition—one thread at a time.
