BREAKING: Nigerian Governor Directs Workers To Wear Traditional Attire To Office, Gives Reason

Governor Seyi Makinde has directed Oyo state civil servants to wear attires with the touch of traditional Yoruba fabrics popularly known as ‘Aso Oke’ every Thursday.

The traditional wear policy is to showcase and preserve the state’s vibrant cultural heritage while generating economic opportunities.

This was contained in a circular from the Office of the Head of Service to heads of ministries and agencies issued on Monday, January 27.

According to Leadership, the new directive is in addition to the existing practice where civil and public officials wear traditional attires on Fridays.

The circular explained that incorporating ‘Aso Oke’ will directly benefit the local economy with local weavers, dyers, and tailors having more patronage.

“This initiative sustains livelihoods, reduces unemployment, and increases income streams for artisans.”

The circular added the rising demand for Aso Oke is expected to spur growth in the informal sector, boost tourism, and promote inclusive development in the pace-setter state.

“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,”

Aso Oke traditional attire

Legit.ng reports that Aso Oke’ or ‘Ofi’ is famous traditional attire among the Yoruba people of South-West Nigeria.

It is preference for important ceremonies and notable events like wedding, funeral ceremony of the elderly, birthday and other important celebrations.

No traditional ceremony and occassion is complete in Yoruba land without the people displaying ‘Aso Oke’ in different styles and colours.

Makinde begins payment of N80k to Oyo workers

The wage is the lowest compensation that an employer is statutorily required to pay the lowest-paid worker in its establishment within a specific period, to ensure a reasonable standard of living.

In a statement on Saturday, January 25, by Dotun Oyelade, commissioner for information and orientation, the N12 billion paid on Friday, January 24, was a result of a promise kept by Governor Seyi Makinde.