BY LAW IBITOYE
Determined to promote cultural heritage and reduced unemployment , Moba Local Government Chairman , Hon Bamidele Fadugba has commissioned a new Adire Hub in Otun Ekiti in Moba Local Government, called ‘ADIRE Moba’ and also empowered one hundred trainees .
The initiative according to the Executive Chairman was aimed at not only empowering residents of Moba Local Government but to improve the economic growth of the trainees and local government, thereby preserving indigenous art craft.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Fadugba highlighted the multifaceted benefits of ‘ADIRE Moba’ as a catalyst for job creation, particularly for women and youths, by impacting them with valuable skills in textile design and production. “This initiative is not just about preserving our cultural identity; it’s about creating sustainable livelihoods for our people and reduced unemployment in Moba, he stated.
While appreciating the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji for initiating ‘Adire Ekiti hub ‘ Hon Fadugba said the hub has not only provided jobs to Ekiti women and youths but has given the state a good name . “Ekiti state is now known for production of quality ADIRE Fabrics, modernizing olden days tie and dye with the use of technology ” The chairman stated .
The chairman said that Moba local government had to quickly cue-in to the initiative of the wife of the governor, having examined the prospects of ADIRE Ekiti to stimulate community economies.He expressed optimism that ‘Adire Moba’ would not only preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people but also position the local government area as a center for high-quality Adire production.
While assuring the trainees of his unflinching support for the hub to make Moba’ a mass production center of ADIRE Fabrics, the Chairman said all clothes that will be used for BAO campaign in the Local Government will be produced in Moba . He therefore called on stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community members, to support the initiative and patronise Adire Moba’.
The commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon Folorunso Olabode who represented the wife of the governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji at the programme advocated the use of ‘ADIRE Fabrics’ for the second term campaign of governor Biodun Oyebanji and all social functions in the state.
Hon Folorunso reiterated that ADIRE Fabrics can be in form of: vests, shirts, gowns and blouses, saying the fabrics should be adopted as social uniforms in the state. He said it would not only provide job opportunities but would improve the economy of the state.
While commending Hon. Fadugba for cuing- in to the lofty initiative of the wife of the Governor which he said had made remarkable impacts in the lives of several trainees, the commissioner urged the Local Government boss to step up the game by exposing both the trainees and graduates to Abeokuta and other states that are well known for the production of Adire to acquire more skills.
He advised the trainees to utilize the golden opportunity accorded them to be self reliant and contribute to the growth of Ekiti state. While assuring them of government support at all times, the commissioner said ” Governor Oyebanji has prioritised empowerments and food production in Ekiti state . All that is required of you is to practise all you have been taught and be professional ”
Also speaking, the wife of the Chairman, Mrs Labake Fadugba applauded the wife of the governor for the initiative which Moba local government is replicating to help women and youths in the Local Government. She stressed that ADIRE Moba has come to stay, saying the hub would be sustained through massive patronage from people within and outside Ekiti..
Mrs Labake Fadugba added that the hub would be a training institute for those interested in making ADIRE.
Also, speaking the Deputy Director, Community service, Moba Local Government who’s in charge of ADIRE Moba’, Mrs Olowoyo Abiodun reiterated the readiness of the council to provide mass production of Adire Fabrics at any time. She said the Local government has over seventy trained and certified professionals to attend to customers needs.
She commended Hon Fadugba’s support for the hub, promised that they would not disappoint him .
Highpoint of the commissioning was displayed of ADIRE products produced by the graduates and official launching of the products.The trainees were elated as they shower encomium on the chairman whom they said had given them new lease of lives.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by dignitaries, community leaders among whom were :HRM Oba Tajudeen Jimoh the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs Bodunde Taiwo Victoria, Secretary. Alhaji Ayantoye Ibrahim, State Treasurer, Hon Ayelomobo, and leader of the house, Rt.Hon. Bosede Adebayo, and handful of artisans who lauded government’s commitment to cultural preservation and economic empowerment.