Morenikeji Adebayo
The Kemta Adire/Kampala Marketers Association in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has called on the state government and other stakeholders to address the challenges they face in importing raw materials for their craft.
The appeal was made on Monday during a press conference in Abeokuta to herald the commencement of the 2025 Adire/Kampala Cultural Day Festival.
Speaking at the event, the Babaloja of Kemta Adire/Kampala Market, Michael Ogunfidodo, announced that the festival, which began on Monday, January 20, will run for one week.
The festival features activities such as the launch of the market’s electronic billboard and a free one-week training on Adire production for interested participants.
According to Ogunfidodo, the market’s goal is to empower individuals of all ages to become self-sufficient while contributing to the economic growth of Ogun State and Nigeria.
He emphasized the market’s long-standing commitment to promoting Adire, noting that the free training program is one of many initiatives aimed at elevating the craft from a relatively unknown art form to a thriving industry.
However, Ogunfidodo and other market leaders lamented the difficulties faced by traders, particularly in sourcing raw materials.
The Otun Iyaloja, Alhaja Oyetola Modina, decried the closure of indigenous factories, which has forced traders to travel to the eastern part of the country for materials.
She also highlighted the challenges posed by the importation process, with materials such as candles and dye often seized by the Nigeria Customs Service.
Modina further raised concerns about the influx of fake Adire textiles into the market, warning that some of these materials could cause cancer. Despite efforts to curb the sale of counterfeit products, she said many traders remain resistant to change.
Alhaja Abike Akamo, the Iyaloja of Kemta Adire/Kampala Market, praised the efforts of members in developing the market.
She also noted the economic significance of Adire makers, who generate revenue through sales and have gained recognition as government officials, including the Ogun State Governor, regularly wear Adire.
Akamo commended the governor for encouraging the public to wear Adire on Fridays, a policy that has positively impacted sales.
The Balogun of the market, Mr. Sulika Badmis, and the Otun Iyaloja, Mrs. Kemi Somuyiwa-Odunlamian, joined other leaders in calling for collaborative efforts to address the challenges faced by Adire traders.
They stressed that government intervention would not only support local artisans but also boost the state’s economy.
The festival chairman, Alhaji Arogundafe, expressed optimism about the event’s impact, noting that it serves as a platform to showcase the cultural and economic value of Adire to a wider audience.
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