By Lukman OMIKUNLE | Newsheadline247
The 3rd Àsàní and Àdùké National Adire and Cultural Festival returns to Abeokuta with a week-long celebration of Nigerian heritage, creativity, and empowerment. Convener Dr. Lizzy Adeboyejo says this year’s edition will chart a new path for sustainable Adire production and cultural revival
3rd Àsàní & Àdùké National Adire and Cultural Festival: “Threads of Legacy, Patterns of Prosperity” Set to Redefine Nigeria’s Textile Heritage
The ancient city of Abeokuta is set to burst into colours, culture, and creativity once again as preparations reach fever pitch for the 3rd Àsàní and Àdùké National Adire and Cultural Festival, themed “Threads of Legacy, Patterns of Prosperity” and tagged “From Our Roots to the World.”
This year’s edition, organized by the Àsàní and Àdùké Foundation in collaboration with ATJ Textiles, promises to be the most vibrant yet — a celebration that fuses heritage, innovation, empowerment, and community spirit.
At the heart of this cultural renaissance is Dr. Lizzy Adeboyejo, the convener and creative visionary behind the initiative. As the Managing Director and Creative Director of ATJ Textiles and Executive Director of the Àsàní and Àdùké Foundation, Dr. Adeboyejo has continued to drive her mission to empower women and youths through Adire craft and cultural preservation.
A Festival Born of Passion and Purpose
The National Adire and Cultural Festival was conceived from Dr. Adeboyejo’s deep passion for sustaining Yoruba and African textile traditions, particularly Adire — the indigenous dyed fabric art synonymous with the Egba people of Ogun State.
“Adire is not just fabric; it’s our identity, our story, and our pride,” said Dr. Lizzy Adeboyejo. “Through this festival, we’re preserving an art form that carries the soul of our people while empowering a new generation to turn creativity into sustainable livelihood.”
Over the years, the Foundation has trained and empowered over 100 women and youths in free Adire production courses, organized community medical outreaches benefiting over 70 people, and hosted entrepreneurial workshops in partnership with agencies like SMEDAN, NEPC, and ITF.
Their success stories have attracted both local and international attention, including a documentary filmed by Alleycat TV in collaboration with BBC’s Clive Myrie — an indication of global interest in Nigeria’s cultural revival movement.
Raising the Bar: What to Expect at the 3rd Edition
This year’s festival, running from November 10 to 15, 2025, promises an elevated experience, combining tradition with innovation.
Pre-Festival Highlights (Nov. 10–13): The pre-festival events will kick off at the Àsàní and Àdùké Foundation Facility Centre in Olomore, Abeokuta, with Cultural Day celebrations, local games, storytelling sessions, Yoruba literature readings, and traditional performances.
The customary free medical outreach and Adire production competition will also hold, alongside a community cultural health walk.
Festival Proper (Nov. 14–15): The main festival days will feature a graduation ceremony for empowerment beneficiaries, Workshops and panel discussions with cultural scholars and textile experts, Adire masterclasses and marketplace exhibitions showcasing works from artisans nationwide, Fashion showcases, music concerts, a vibrant local food and craft village, and Excellence Awards to honour promoters of Adire and Nigerian cultural heritage.
There will also be global networking opportunities, digital streaming access, and virtual exhibitions designed to engage the diaspora and international audiences.
A Festival of Growth and Vision
The 2025 edition stands out for its expanded scale, enhanced digital participation, and broader collaborations. The organisers expect a 30% growth in attendance, more artisan sales, and stronger local and international partnerships.
“This year’s festival is not just an event; it’s a movement,” Dr. Adeboyejo emphasized. “We’re laying the foundation for a sustainable creative economy — one that empowers women, uplifts communities, and puts Nigerian Adire on the global fashion map.”
The festival’s long-term vision is clear:
- Position Adire as a global cultural icon,
- Drive socio-economic development through creative industries,
- Promote sustainability and innovation, and
- Inspire pride among future generations of Nigerians.
Beyond Fabric — A Cultural and Economic Revolution
Through initiatives like the Adire Advanced Course (APAC 1 & 2) and ongoing empowerment programs, Àsàní and Àdùké Foundation has become a model of how culture can intersect with entrepreneurship and social development.
As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy through the creative sector, festivals like this are redefining how traditional arts contribute to national growth.
“When we invest in Adire, we invest in our people,” said Dr. Adeboyejo. “Every dye, every pattern tells a story of resilience and hope — the kind of legacy we want to leave for generations to come.” Read More
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