Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire, a revered adire craftswoman and cultural figure in Ibadan, has passed away at the age of 90.
In an official signed statement, the Head of Family, Alhaji Ganiyu Oladimeji, announced that she answered the call of her Creator in the early hours of Monday, 2 March 2026, at her residence, Ile Toki, No. N1/506 Balogun Ibikunle Street, Ayeye, Ibadan. She was laid to rest the same day in accordance with Islamic rites.
Born into an era preceding Nigeria’s independence, Grandma Sikira trained in the art of tie-and-dye in the mid-1950s and became widely known for her exceptional skill in designing traditional and cultural patterns of adire. Her creativity and mastery of intricate designs on local fabrics for both ceremonial and everyday wear earned her the enduring nickname “Sikira Aladire.”
Her craft flourished during a period when colonial administrators and foreign visitors frequented Ile Toki to admire and purchase her works. The area became synonymous with high-quality tie-and-dye products crafted with remarkable ingenuity, with some of the textiles exported internationally, projecting the artistry and cultural heritage of the community beyond Nigeria’s shores.
Beyond her reputation as a master craftswoman, Grandma Sikira was described as a devout Muslim deeply rooted in her faith and Yoruba traditions. She was also known for her love of traditional Apala and Dundun music, where her graceful dancing brought joy to neighbours and visitors alike.
Family members remember her as a caring and loving mother whose life embodied kindness, resilience and community spirit. She is survived by a large family, including children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers, nephews, nieces and cousins. Her children include the late Sarah Alimi, Abibat Alimi, Suleiman Azeez and Latifat Balogun.
The family prayed for Allah’s forgiveness for her shortcomings and for her to be granted Al Jannah Firdaus, while seeking comfort for all those she left behind.
The 7-day fidau prayer for the deceased is scheduled to hold at 12 noon on Sunday, 8 March 2026, at Ile Toki, House No. N1/506 Balogun Ibikunle Street, Ayeye, Ibadan.
Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire’s legacy as a master of her craft and a custodian of cultural heritage is expected to endure for generations, etched in the fabrics she designed and in the hearts of those she inspired. May her soul rest in perfect peace. Ameen.
