The Ekiti State government has approved the Adire Ekiti as the official attire for civil servants and political office holders on the third Wednesday of every month.

The government revealed that the measure is aimed at projecting the state’s attire, cultural heritage and as well promoting the culture of the state.

The state commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun in a statement on Friday said the approval was part of the decisions reached during the virtual State Executive Meeting presided over by Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Wednesday.

According to him, “the development is also expected to showcase the unique artistry of Adire in Ekiti State, create jobs and provide employment opportunities thus empowering residents interested in the tie and dye craft and increasing revenue generation to the State with the aim of boosting the State economy.

“Additionally, the move is targeted at the promotion of Ekiti cultural heritage and preservation of traditional craftsmanship, while enhancing tourism potential by providing opportunities for visitors to experience the authentic Batik as well as the tie-dye production process.

“It is expected to also help preserve traditional techniques while encouraging modern adaptations and designs with the goal of transforming local Adire craft-workers to globally exceptional tradesmen with opportunities to showcase their skills and creativity, contribute to sustainable development as well as foster entrepreneurship and innovation among young people, particularly women, in the State.

“The State House of Assembly had on Wednesday, 25th September 2024, resolved at its second session, that the State Government should set aside the third Wednesday of every month noting that the cultural heritage of any group is readily reflected and evaluated through its cultural symbols, including traditional attire.”

He added that the council also approved the sum of N2 billion for the renovation and construction of synthetic turf at the Oluyemi Kayode stadium in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

The commissioner denied the insinuations that the government was spending N7 billion on the renovation project, adding that the administration of Governor Oyebanji was determined to provide the enabling environment and infrastructures for young sports lovers to thrive in the state.

Olatunbosun said, “the target is to elevate the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium to a global standard to boost Sports Development in recognition of sport as a veritable weapon to stamp out poverty, joblessness and crime from the society.

“Facilities to be renovated include: The administrative block to provide a more conducive working environment for staff, Athletics tracks, Seating terrace and spectators stand canopy, VIP stand, Installation of pitch accessories, Renovation of existing offices, Perimeter fencing of the stadium and Standard (Synthetic Turf) Football Pitch.

“However, the Oyebanji administration in a demonstration of its commitment to turning sports into a sustainable career is also currently constructing a versatile, 900-seats capacity enclosed facility designed to accommodate various indoor sports activities in Ado Ekiti that offers protection from weather and a controlled environment for both recreational and professional sports.

“The indoor sports hall consists of facilities for Team Sports, including basketball, baseball, volleyball, and handball; as well as Individual Sports like badminton, Table Tennis, gymnastics, chess, traditional sports, ?scrabble, weightlifting and ?Para weightlifting.

“The Facility also contains accommodation for Combat Sports such as boxing, judo, kickboxing, ?karate, kung fu.

“The proactive move of Governor Oyebanji administration is also part of efforts at fostering youth development through enabling environment to not only improve talents and provide opportunities to participate but to also host sound competitions.”

He noted that the renovation project is expected to be completed within the next three months. (Nigerian Tribune)