Stakeholders in Nigeria’s cultural and fashion scenes are pressing the Federal Government to officially protect Aso Oke the revered indigenous fabric insisting its heritage and name must remain distinctly Nigerian. At the grand finale of Global Entrepreneurship Week in Ilorin, Dr. Yemisi Adeyeye of the Life Fount Foundation stressed the urgency of registering Aso Oke as a Geographical Indication to safeguard its identity and ensure only fabric woven on Nigerian soil bears its name.
“Aso Oke is our indigenous fabric, and Ilorin stands as one of the world’s finest weaving hubs,” Adeyeye affirmed, cautioning against globalization-driven copying that risks blurring the fabric’s true origin. Plans for an Aso Oke Fashion Show and eventual Fashion Week aim to showcase Nigeria’s ownership and pride in this beautiful textile.
Echoing these sentiments, Kwara State’s National Orientation Agency Director, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu, highlighted ongoing efforts to promote Aso Oke globally and boost export markets, encouraging designers to create contemporary styles that resonate with young Nigerians. Kwara’s Youth Development Commissioner, Hon. Shehu Ndanusa Usman, urged youths to blend creativity, entrepreneurship, technology, and education for economic empowerment.
Aso Oke, handwoven by Yoruba artisans, symbolizes tradition, identity, prestige, and rich cultural heritage, celebrated widely in ceremonies and everyday life alike. Protecting and promoting it as a cultural and economic asset is seen as vital to Nigeria’s cultural legacy and global cultural diplomacy.
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