Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has mandated that civil and public servants wear native attire with a touch of Aso Oke fabric on Thursdays, in addition to the traditional Friday native attire.
This new dress code was announced through a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service to ministry and agency heads on January 27, 2025.
The circular emphasized that the initiative is not merely about attire but is part of a broader strategy to promote cultural pride and support economic development.
“Our workforce will serve as ambassadors of tradition and drivers of economic transformation every Thursday and Friday,” the directive stated.
The policy aims to preserve Yoruba culture, empower local artisans, and strengthen the grassroots economy by encouraging the use of locally made Aso Oke.
The Governor explained that this move would help sustain livelihoods, reduce unemployment, and create income opportunities for weavers, dyers, and tailors.
Governor Makinde expressed confidence that the new dress code would increase demand for Aso Oke fabrics, stimulate growth in the informal sector, enhance tourism, and contribute to the state’s overall inclusive development.
(Prompt news)