By: Sayo Alagbe
Like the proverbial cat with nine lives, the historic Fedegbo Aso-Ofi Weaving Centre in Ogbomoso has defied the eclipse of history, staging a remarkable comeback from near extinction to renewed vibrancy and commercial relevance.
Once one of five renowned weaving centres in the ancient city that had slipped into total oblivion, the Fedegbo centre—located behind First Bank, Ogbomoso—has been reborn through extensive rebuilding and refurbishment. The transformation has turned the formerly dilapidated site into a flourishing hub that now attracts admiration and patronage, standing as a cynosure of all eyes.
The revival was made possible by Chief J.O. Adebiyi, popularly known as Jesu O Seun of Fedegbo fame, a prominent merchant with business interests spanning Suleja and Abuja. According to Scoopchase, Chief Adebiyi undertook the reconstruction of the centre at a time it was on the verge of total collapse, restoring not just its physical structures but also its lost glory.
Speaking on behalf of the weavers, Mr. Adegboyega Basiru expressed profound gratitude and excitement over the development. He recalled that the centre had almost lost its fame and recognition, surviving only in memory before Chief Adebiyi’s timely intervention.
“God used Chief Adebiyi to bring this centre back to life,” he said. “Since the rebuilding of the old relics, there has been tremendous improvement. Progress is now rapid, work has increased, patronage is rising, and the weavers are in high spirits, returning home daily with meaningful earnings.”
A major boost to the centre’s resurgence, Mr. Adegboyega noted, is the recognition it has received from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH). The institution has partnered with the centre to train students in the art of traditional cloth weaving as part of its skills acquisition programme, coordinated by Mr. Muhammed Taofeek. This collaboration has significantly increased enrolment and renewed interest among youths eager to acquire practical vocational skills.
Mr. Adegboyega further conveyed the weavers’ heartfelt appreciation to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III—also the Onifedegbo of Fedegbo—for his immense contributions and support, which have helped reposition the centre as a living structure of vibrant commercial activity.
He assured patrons and partners that the weavers are committed to increasing productivity, executing contracts promptly, and delivering quality work without disappointment.
Today, the reborn Fedegbo Aso-Ofi Weaving Centre stands not only as a testament to cultural preservation but also as a beacon of economic revival, skills development, and community pride in Ogbomoso.
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