Aishah Waliyullah
Adire and Kampala producers at the popular Kemta Adire/Kampala Market, Itoku, Abeokuta, have called on Governor Dapo Abiodun and the Ogun State House of Assembly to enact a law prohibiting the sale of fake Adire fabrics across markets in the state.
The producers, under the aegis of the Kemta Adire/Kampala Marketers Association, said such legislation would go a long way in protecting the heritage and integrity of the centuries-old local textile industry, which has become the pride of the Egba people and a major source of livelihood for thousands of families.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 2026 Adire Cultural Festival, the Otun Iya Oloja of the Market, Chief (Mrs) Shodiya Odunlami, said the proliferation of fake and imported Adire products posed a serious threat to the survival of genuine local producers and traders.
“Talking about fake Adire fabrics in the market, it is only the government and the State Assembly that can help us—not the sellers and marketers. We cannot fight it alone; only the government can win the battle for us with a strong law,” she said.
Chief Odunlami, who acknowledged the efforts of traditional rulers, including the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, towards preserving the Adire heritage, urged the government to complement their efforts through decisive legislation and strict enforcement.
She commended Governor Abiodun for his continuous support, particularly the directive mandating civil servants to wear Adire on Fridays, describing it as a morale booster for local artisans.
She, however, urged the government to ensure that only genuine, locally made Adire fabrics are patronised by the state workforce.
Also speaking, the Iya Oloja of the Market, Alhaja Saidat Akamo, appealed for greater collaboration and sponsorship from banks, telecommunications companies, textile industries, fashion brands, the media, and non-governmental organisations to sustain the Adire industry.
“The Adire business is a symbol of our identity, creativity, and culture. Supporting it means empowering women, artisans, and entire communities,” Akamo said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the 2026 Adire Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Chief (Mrs) Adiat Ogunyomi, announced that this year’s festival would hold from February 2 to 7, 2026, with the theme, “Adire: Our Fabric, Our Future.”
Ogunyomi revealed that the five-day event would feature Iwure Aje (prayers for prosperity), royal visits to Egbaland monarchs, interfaith prayers, youth and women empowerment exhibitions (Adire Igba Ewe Mi), zonal parades, special Jumat and church services, children’s parade, cultural performances, and awards for excellence.
She added that the festival would celebrate the resilience and creativity of Adire makers while promoting Ogun State as the hub of authentic Adire and Kampala fabrics in Nigeria and beyond.
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