Nigeria’s iconic fabric Adire got attention from various quarters during the week after the federal government confirmed through the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, that the timeless khaki worn by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will be changed to Adire.
The news was greeted with mixed feelings from netizens who shared their hot takes about the decision. Some people noted that the Adire is symbolic to the Yorubas and doesn’t cover every tribe in the country. They also admitted that the iconic khaki, which does not select tribe or region, has more national acceptance than the Adire.
Regardless of the varying opinions of many Nigerians about the Adire as a general uniform for NYSC members, they recognised the cultural identity of this ageless fabric, which reflects the pride and elegance of the Southwest region.
Adire’s peculiarity to the Yorubas doesn’t take away the fact that it can be rocked by anyone who wants to identify with Africa’s rich cultural heritage. It transcends from being just a cultural outfit to being the darling of runway models.
It can be rocked as iro and buba or made in different stylish pieces that elevate one’s fashion taste. For fashion lovers who desire to create accessories with this evergreen fabric, it can be used to make bags, earrings, head wraps, among other items, which gives a matching look and accentuates one’s style.
Although Olawande has stated that the FG hasn’t taken a decision yet to change the khaki to Adire, fashion conversations have proposed how this beautiful material can be combined elegantly to create some magical fashion moments. Adire remains a timeless piece that flaunts the beauty of African designs and spurs both the old and young generation to slay in it with pride.
