To promote cultural heritage and reduce unemployment, the Chairman of Moba Local Government, Hon. Bamidele Fadugba, has commissioned an Adire production hub in Otun Ekiti, named “Adire Moba”.
The initiative also empowered 100 trained artisans who will help drive the local textile economy.
Speaking at the official commissioning, Hon. Fadugba described “Adire Moba” as a strategic initiative designed not only to empower residents with vocational skills but also to stimulate economic growth and preserve indigenous craftsmanship.
“This initiative is not just about preserving our cultural identity; it’s about creating sustainable livelihoods for our people, especially women and youths. We are committed to reducing unemployment across Moba,” the Chairman stated.
He expressed gratitude to the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for initiating the Adire Ekiti project, noting that it has created jobs and elevated Ekiti’s reputation in the textile industry.
“Ekiti is now recognised for producing high-quality Adire fabrics, blending traditional techniques with modern technology,” he said.
Hon. Fadugba emphasised that Moba Local Government quickly aligned with the initiative due to its potential to boost local economies, affirming that “Adire Moba” would serve as a cultural and economic hub, positioning the area as a centre for excellence in Adire production.
To further promote the hub, he pledged that all fabrics to be used for the BAO 2026 campaign in Moba would be sourced from Adire Moba, calling on stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community members, to support and patronise the initiative.
Representing the Governor’s wife at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Folorunso Olabode, advocated the adoption of Adire fabrics for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second-term campaign and other social functions across Ekiti.
He encouraged residents to use Adire for shirts, gowns, vests and blouses, saying the move will boost the local economy.
Commending Hon. Fadugba for embracing the initiative, the Commissioner advised that the trainees be further exposed to established Adire markets like Abeokuta to deepen their expertise.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity, pointing out that the unwavering commitment of Governor Oyebanji to empowerment and food security only required their commitment to professionalism.
Also speaking, the wife of the Chairman, Mrs. Labake Fadugba, applauded the Governor’s wife for the initiative, noting that Adire Moba would become a sustainable project benefiting women and youths, adding that the hub would serve as a training institute for aspiring Adire makers.
The Deputy Director for Community Services in Moba, Mrs. Abiodun Olowoyo, who oversees the “Adire Moba,” reaffirmed the council’s readiness for large-scale production, disclosing that over 70 trained professionals are already on the ground to meet customer demand.
She also thanked Hon. Fadugba for his unwavering support and promised quality service delivery.
Highlights of the event included a display of Adire products by the trainees and the official launch of the “Adire Moba” brand, where the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Chairman and described the opportunity as life-changing.
Dignitaries at the event included the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, HRM Oba Tajudeen Jimoh; the Head of Local Government Administration, Mrs. Bodunde Taiwo Victoria; Council Secretary, Alhaji Ayantoye Ibrahim; State Treasurer, Hon. Ayelomobo; and Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Bosede Adebayo, among other community leaders and artisans, all of whom commended the government’s commitment to cultural preservation and grassroots development.
