Ẹ̀GBALIGANZA 2025 – A CELEBRATION OF HERITAGE, STYLE, AND A $1 Billion VISION

Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is more than just a cultural celebration—it is a movement, a revival,
and a powerful economic vision aimed at transforming the fashion and creative
industries in Ẹ̀gbáland.
Following the resounding success of the inaugural edition in 2024, this year’s event,
headlined by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation and supported by the Lisabi
Committee and Egba Legacy Network, is set to be even grander, spotlighting the rich
heritage of the Ẹ̀gbá people while unveiling new opportunities for economic growth and
youth empowerment.
At the heart of this grand initiative is the $1 billion value chain that Ẹ̀gbáliganza seeks to
establish in the indigenous textile industry, particularly in Adire and other traditional
fabrics. Through structured training programs, funding support, and market expansion
strategies, the event aims to empower local artisans, designers, and textile
entrepreneurs, positioning Ẹ̀gbáland as a global fashion and culture hub.
Beyond its cultural significance, Ẹ̀gbáliganza is an economic catalyst. The event is set to bridge tradition with innovation, opening doors for local businesses, designers, and
artisans to tap into the lucrative global fashion industry. With the increasing global appreciation for indigenous African textiles, the time has come for the world to see Ẹ̀gbá
craftsmanship as more than just heritage—it is an economic powerhouse waiting to be fully harnessed.
The event will feature stunning fashion showcases, artistic exhibitions, and live
performances that will bring Ẹ̀gbá history to life. From the timeless elegance of Adire to
the regal presence of agbádá, the essence of Ẹ̀gbá sophistication will be on full display.
In addition, Lai Labode Heritage Foundation in conjunction with the Lisabi Committee
and the Egba Legacy Network unveil 2025 theme, Walk Way of Kings, which will
highlight the grandeur and leadership spirit embedded in Ẹ̀gbá culture.
“Ẹ̀gbáliganza is not just an event; it is a movement that will redefine how we see culture and commerce in Ẹ̀gbáland,” said Chief Lai Labode Osi Apagun, the visionary behind
the event. “Through this platform, we are creating opportunities, reviving our heritage, and securing the economic future of our people.”
With anticipation building, one thing is certain—Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 will be a landmark event, shaping the future of Yoruba heritage and making history in real-time.
Date: April 5, 2025
Location: Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Ẹ̀gbáliganza – A Vision of Lai Labode
Heritage Foundation, and a $1 Billion
Fashion Industry Vision For centuries, fashion has been more than just clothing—it has been a powerful
storyteller, a bridge between generations, and a reflection of cultural identity. In Ẹ̀gbáland, traditional attire carries deep meaning, from the intricate patterns of Adire to the grandeur of agbádá and the craftsmanship of beaded crowns. As the world embraces African heritage in fashion, Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is set to position Ẹ̀gbá creativity on the global stage while unlocking a $1 billion market opportunity for local artisans and designers. headlined by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation and
supported by the Lisabi Committee and Egba Legacy Network
This year’s event,, will showcase the evolution of Ẹ̀gbá fashion, blending ancient artistry with modern innovations. One of the key highlights will be the unveiling of structured training programs and financial support designed to equip young designers, textile makers, and entrepreneurs with the skills and resources needed to compete in the
international market.
“Fashion is one of the most visible and commercially viable aspects of culture,” said Chief Abiodun Atobatele, Vice Chairman of Ẹ̀gbáliganza. “By investing in our textile industry, we are not only preserving heritage but also creating sustainable wealth for our people
With the global interest in African textiles rising, Ẹ̀gbáliganza aims to place Ẹ̀gbá fashion at the forefront of this movement. The event will feature breathtaking runway
displays, masterclasses on Adire-making, and discussions on how traditional fabrics can drive economic transformation. The Egba Legacy Network will also unveil its 2025 theme, Walk Way of Kings, a tribute to the enduring legacy of Ẹ̀gbá leadership and
style. The impact of Ẹ̀gbáliganza extends beyond fashion—it is a direct driver of economic growth, boosting tourism, local businesses, and employment in the region. With visitors expected from across Nigeria and beyond, the event will create a ripple effect, benefiting everyone from fabric merchants to event planners.
As anticipation grows, one thing is clear—Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is not just about wearing history; it is about shaping the future of cultural commerce.
Date: April 5, 2025
Location: Abeokuta, Ogun State.
From the Hills of Olumo to the World –Lai Labode Heritage Foundation brings about Global Impact
From the ancient Olumo Rock to the thriving business hubs of Abeokuta, the Ẹ̀gbá people have always been known for their resilience, enterprise, and cultural excellence.
Their influence extends beyond the hills of Ogun State, shaping Nigeria’s history in governance, commerce, arts, and diplomacy. Now, with Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025, this legacy
is being redefined for a new era—one where culture meets economic empowerment and heritage fuels a $1 billion industry vision.
This culture-defining event will be happening alongside the Lisabi Festival on April 5th,
2025, in Abeokuta.
Building on the overwhelming success of its first edition in 2024, Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025, led by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, is set to be a landmark event, celebrating the depth of Yoruba culture through the lens of the Ẹ̀gbá experience. With the Lisabi Committee and Egba Legacy Network as supporting partners, this year’s event will not
only highlight tradition but also create sustainable pathways for economic transformation in the fashion and creative sectors.
“Ẹ̀gbáliganza is not just an event—it is a call to the world to recognize the richness of Ẹ̀gbá culture and the economic power it holds,” said Chief Yemi Lawal, Chairman of the
event. “By investing in our local industries, we are laying the foundation for long-term
prosperity.” The event will bring together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, cultural enthusiasts, and creatives to explore new frontiers in heritage preservation and commerce. The unveiling
of the Egba Legacy Network’s 2025 theme, Walk Way of Kings, will symbolize the bold steps being taken to elevate Ẹ̀gbá culture onto the global stage.
Beyond its cultural significance, Ẹ̀gbáliganza is a key driver of tourism and local enterprise, attracting visitors eager to experience the vibrancy of Ẹ̀gbáland. The ripple
effect of this event will be felt across hotels, local markets, transportation services, and artisan workshops, strengthening Abeokuta’s position as a cultural and economic hub.
As the countdown begins, one message is clear—Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is more than a celebration; it is history in the making.
Ẹ̀gbáliganza – Setting the Stage for a
$1 Billion Cultural and Economic
Revolution Before every great movement, there is a moment where vision meets the world. On
March 11, 2025, the Ẹ̀gbáliganza Press Conference took center stage at the Erelu Yeye Oodua Renaissance Centre, setting the foundation for what promises to be a historic cultural event.
Hosted by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, with the Lisabi Committee and the Egba
Legacy Network as key supporting partners, this press conference marked the unveiling
of the grand vision behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025.
More than just a gathering, this was a call to action—a declaration that Ẹ̀gbá culture, fashion, and heritage are not just to be remembered but to be lived and transformed into
a thriving economic force. The event brought together distinguished stakeholders, industry experts, and cultural custodians, all sharing the mission of redefining heritage
through innovation, creativity, and enterprise.
A major highlight of the press conference was the unveiling of the $1 billion fashion and
textile market value chain that Ẹ̀gbáliganza aims to establish. This initiative will focus on The Cultural Leaders Behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza – Meet the Visionaries Behind Nigeria’s Biggest Cultural and Fashion Movement Every groundbreaking movement is driven by visionaries—those who see beyond the
present and work to shape the future. At the recently concluded Ẹ̀gbáliganza Press Conference, the key leaders behind this grand initiative took the stage to share their passion, vision, and commitment to the cultural and economic revival of Ẹ̀gbáland.
Hosted by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation and supported by the Lisabi Committee and the Egba Legacy Network, this press conference showcased the incredible leadership team dedicated to making Ẹ̀gbáliganza a transformative force.
Chief Lai Labode Osi Apagun PhD – The Visionary Architect
As the driving force behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza, Chief Lai Labode spoke passionately about the
need to not only celebrate heritage but to create lasting economic opportunities from it.
“Ẹ̀gbáliganza is more than a festival; it is a movement designed to empower our people through culture and enterprise. We are building a $1 billion industry around our heritage—one that will sustain future generations.
Chief Yemi Lawal – The Chairman with a Grand Vision
With deep ties to the Lisabi Festival, Chief Yemi Lawal emphasized the seamless connection between the two events. “Lisabi Festival honors our history, and Ẹ̀gbáliganza projects that legacy into the future. Through this platform, we are not just preserving our culture; we are making it a global phenomenon.”
Chief Mustapha – The Mastermind Behind the Execution.
As Director of Projects, Chief Mustapha provided insights into the extensive planning
behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025. “We learned a lot from last year’s success, and this year we are going even bigger. Expect an immersive experience that brings together culture, business, and entertainment like never before.”
Chief Abiodun Atobatele – The Voice of Fashion and Culture
Recognizing the evolving nature of heritage, Chief Abiodun Atobatele shed light on how
Ẹ̀gbáliganza is modernizing cultural expression. “Fashion is history woven into fabric.
The world is beginning to appreciate indigenous designs, and we are here to ensure that adire and Yoruba fashion take their rightful place on the global stage.”
Ayokunle Odebiyi – The Branding and Marketing Strategist
Representing Northern Hills Company, the marketing partner of Ẹ̀gbáliganza, Ayokunle
Odebiyi discussed the international branding efforts behind the movement. “We are
positioning Ẹ̀gbáliganza as a premium cultural experience. Our goal is to ensure that this event is not just seen locally but recognized globally.”
Cash Token – The Corporate Champion of Cultural Advancement
A representative from Cash Token, one of the key sponsors of Ẹ̀gbáliganza, spoke
about the importance of corporate involvement in heritage preservation. “Culture is identity, and identity is value. Investing in Ẹ̀gbáliganza means investing in the future of
Nigeria’s creative economy.”
With this formidable leadership team at the helm, the stage is set for Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025,
happening on April 5 in Abeokuta, Ogun State. This will be more than a cultural event—it will be a defining moment in the rise of Nigeria’s heritage economy.
As anticipation builds, one thing is certain: the future of Ẹ̀gbá culture is in visionary hand.