In a bold cultural statement rich with style, sophistication, and economic ambition, Ègbáliganza 2025 will take the spotlight as the pinnacle of this year’s Lisabi Festival Grand Finale on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Abeokuta.
Held under the distinguished leadership of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, 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.
Speaking to the media ahead of the event, Chief (Dr.) Lai Labode, Osi Apagun of Egbaland and the visioner of Ègbáliganza, unveiled the transformative agenda behind the initiative.
“Ègbáliganza is designed to stimulate the Egba fashion and textile market, currently estimated at $1 billion,” he said. “It is a strategic initiative aimed at reviving and globalising the adire and indigenous fabric industry through structured training, enterprise support, and international collaboration.”
Ègbáliganza repositions Egbaland as a global hub for authentic African fashion, equipping 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,” Labode continued. “Ègbáliganza magnifies this identity by blending traditional attire with modern interpretations, celebrating our roots while embracing our future.”
But Ègbáliganza is more than fashion; it’s an expression of Egba excellence and creativity. It brings Egba artistry to the forefront of contemporary African art and culture, showcasing the craftsmanship, sophistication, and innovation of Egba people.
“Ègbáliganza promotes made-in-Egbaland,” Labode added. “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, a 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,” he stated. “It’s not just about celebration; it’s about industry, innovation, and inspiration.”
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
– Live showcases by local designers and artisans
– 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.
