Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged beneficiaries of the ongoing Adire Training Programme to embrace the initiative with passion and commitment to maximize their full potential and compete favorably on the global stage. She made the call during the flag-off ceremony for a new batch of trainees held at the Adire Ekiti Hub along Iworoko Road in Ado-Ekiti.
Dr. Oyebanji emphasized the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that empower citizens, strengthen the cultural economy, and position Ekiti State as a center of creativity and innovation. She stated that the Adire Ekiti Initiative was designed to promote job creation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth through cultural heritage.
Acknowledging the support of stakeholders, Dr. Oyebanji praised Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who is sponsoring 35 trainees, and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mr. Olufunso Adebiyi, who is sponsoring 100 trainees. She described their contributions as an investment that will bring lasting benefits to the 135 participants and the state.
“This Adire training programme is another remarkable step in our mission to empower our people and preserve our cherished cultural heritage. It is my personal initiative, born out of a passion to uplift our people through creativity and culture,” she said.
Dr. Oyebanji highlighted the impact of the programme, recalling that since its inception, over 3,800 widows and young people across Ekiti State have been trained in different batches. She noted that some local government chairmen have also replicated the project in their areas, leading to positive and transformative results.
Speaking on the cultural and economic importance of Adire, she explained that it is more than just a fabric. “Adire is a living symbol of identity, resilience, and ingenuity. Beyond cultural pride, Adire has become a global commodity with enormous potential for job creation, wealth generation, and sustainable growth. Ekiti must take her rightful place in this expanding creative economy,” she added.
Earlier, the Special Assistant to the Governor’s Wife on Adire, Mrs. Remi Adefemi, revealed that the 135 new trainees were selected from Ekiti North Senatorial District and Ise/Orun Local Government. She encouraged the participants to remain dedicated throughout the training, describing it as a vital opportunity to develop skills and improve their livelihoods.
“This is not just a training exercise but a golden opportunity to empower our people, preserve our cultural heritage, and create pathways for sustainable livelihoods,” Adefemi said.
The ceremony was attended by the Senior Special Assistant to the Wife of the Governor on Political Matters, Mrs. Toyin Adepoju, and other dignitaries who commended the initiative for its role in youth empowerment and economic development.