Governor Seyi Makinde has mandated Oyo State government workers to wear traditional Yoruba fabrics, known as ‘Aso Oke’, every Thursday.
This is in addition to the existing practice of civil and public officials wearing traditional attires on Fridays.
According to a circular sent on January 27 by the Office of the Head of Service to heads of ministries and agencies, the policy aims to highlight and conserve Oyo State’s strong cultural heritage while also creating economic opportunities.
It stressed that adding ‘Aso Oke’ will immediately improve the local economy by increasing patronage for local weavers, dyers, and tailors.
The circular stated, “This initiative sustains livelihoods, reduces unemployment, and increases income streams for artisans.”
The government believed that increased demand for Aso Oke would drive growth in the informal sector, improve tourism, and promote inclusive development.
‘Aso Oke’ or ‘Ofi’ is well-known among the Yorubas of the Southwest due to its preference for big rituals. In Yoruba culture, notable occasions such as weddings, funerals for the old, birthdays, and other important ceremonies are incomplete without ‘Aso Oke’.
“This policy is not just about dressing; it’s a strategic effort to validate our cultural identity while uplifting grassroots economies.
“Every Thursday and Friday, our workforce will become ambassadors of tradition and catalysts for economic transformation,” the circular added.