Lisabi Festival 2025
This year’s Lisabi festival grand finale will be spotlighted by Ègbáliganza 2025, a bold cultural statement rich with style, sophistication, and economic ambition, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Abeokuta.
“Ègbáliganza is designed to stimulate the Egba fashion and textile market, currently estimated at $1 billion,” Lai Labode, Osi Apagun of Egbaland and visioner of Ègbáliganza, said in a statement.
According to him, Ègbáliganza is not just a showcase of Egba fashion; it is a movement to reignite the creative economy of the Egba people and present it to the world.
“It is a strategic initiative aimed at reviving and globalising the adire and indigenous fabric industry through structured training, enterprise support, and international collaboration.”
Held under the leadership of Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, the initiative aim to repositions Egbaland as a global hub for authentic African fashion.
It also aims to equip local designers, artisans, and textile entrepreneurs with the tools and visibility they need to thrive on the world stage.
“The Egba fashion sense is a symbol of our identity. Ègbáliganza magnifies this identity by blending traditional attire with modern interpretations, celebrating our roots while embracing our future,” Labode stated.
According to him, Ègbáliganza will bring Egba artistry to the forefront of contemporary African art and culture. It will also showcase the craftsmanship, sophistication, and innovation of the Egba people.
Labode stated that the initiative is geared towards promoting made-in-Egbaland. “It’s a bold symbol of our cultural pride and economic intent. It’s our way of saying, We are proud of who we are, and we are ready to show the world.”
Moruff Adenekan, member of the Egba Legacy Network and CEO of PR Redline, also emphasised the economic importance of the initiative.
“Ègbáliganza is transforming Egba culture and creativity into an economic force. It’s not just about celebration; it’s about industry, innovation, and inspiration,” he stated.
According to Adenekan, Ègbáliganza 2025 is expected to attract a diverse audience including government dignitaries, global stakeholders, fashion experts, cultural custodians, tourists, and media representatives from across the world.
“This year’s event will include a royal walkway of kings, showcasing traditional regalia and high fashion. Exhibitions of adire and indigenous textiles and live showcases by local designers and artisans. It will also include cultural performances, music, and more.
“Ègbáliganza is not just the future of Egba fashion. It is the future of African fashion, powered by heritage, fueled by creativity, and presented with pride,” Adenekan stated.
Photo-credit: My Impact
Report by Seyi John Solalu
