Abeokuta, the historic heart of Ogun State, came alive with flair and cultural pride last weekend as it hosted the 2025 Lisabi Festival, themed ‘Ègbáliganza’.
The festival was more than a cultural spectacle, it was a bold declaration of heritage, fashion, and economic revival.
At the center of Ègbáliganza is the indomitable legacy of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary Egba warrior famed for leading a daring resistance against the dominance of the Oyo Empire in the 18th century.
His fearless spirit echoed through every drumbeat, every dance step, and every fabric choice at the festival.
The atmosphere was electric from the onset. Attendees from across the world gathered in Abeokuta to honor Egba’s proud past while embracing the possibilities of its fashionable future.
From culinary delights to artisanal textiles, the festival grounds brimmed with local enterprise, vibrant culture, and entrepreneurial promise.
This year’s edition felt like a cultural couture week, equal parts heritage and haute couture. Men strutted in meticulously designed agbadas, regal in appearance and confident in demeanor. Women dazzled in traditional adire and aso-oke, with layers of iro and buba flowing in harmony, their geles sculpted into artful crowns.
A standout moment came with the appearance of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who made a striking entrance in full Egba regalia.
Clad in a lemon-orange adire paired with a lime green fila elegantly draped over one shoulder and a rich, brown fur-like shawl, OBJ was the embodiment of tradition meeting charisma. Guests couldn’t help but applaud the sartorial tribute.
Adding depth to the day was a stirring message from Ogun lawmaker Wasiu Ayodele, widely known as Iwa, who called on Egba youth to step up as torchbearers of their rich culture.
He declared, “The future of Egba culture lies in the hands of our youth. By actively participating in cultural events and promoting our traditions, we are ensuring that the Egba legacy remains strong and proud.”
The event also drew a notable array of dignitaries and cultural icons including Governor Dapo Abiodun; former governors Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun; Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani; the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo; and Tunde Delu, COO of the Nigeria Rugby Federation.
For Lai Labode, the Osi Apagun of Egbaland and the creative force behind the modern reimagination of the festival, Ègbáliganza isn’t just a display of beauty, it’s a movement.
“It’s about creating sustainable opportunities through fashion and enterprise,” he emphasized.
In Abeokuta, last weekend wasn’t just a festival, it was a renaissance.
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