The 39th Lisabi festival will be playing host to 50 countries across the globe during the week-long traditional and cultural activities, according to the heritage cultural platform, Egbaliganza.
During a world press conference in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the convener of the platform, Chief Lai Labode Jr., said that the invited countries are coming to join in honouring the legendary Lisabi Agbongbo Akala and pay homage to the Alake of Egbaland, the paramount ruler.
Labode Jr., who is also the Aare of Egbaland and President of Confederation of African Fashion, explained that Egbaliganza was founded to transform Egbaland, which he described as the cradle of many firsts. He added that the concept is aimed at establishing a new verse, which equally prompted establishment of Lai Labode Foundation
The Ijaiye-born chief also announced that Egbaliganza will be rebranded Alake-Egbaliganza, explaining that the concept was inspired by the Alake, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo III.
Labode Jr., who was accompanied to the media event by his father, Chief Lai Labode Snr., a senior journalist, announced Lai Labode Heritage Museum would soon be birthed.
Labode Jr. admitted some challenges in the formative stage of Egbaliganza, which he said has been adequately addressed, adding that the festival would also provide opportunities to honour all Egba heroes, including Kurunmi.
The Brand Manager for Goldberg at the Nigerian Breweries Plc, Titilayo Odekunle affirmed that the organisation is pleased to be part of the celebration, adding that the brand has always had a special relationship with the culture of the Southwest
She said: ‘Let me begin by saying how pleased we are, as Goldberg Lager Beer, to be part of this moment. Goldberg has always had a special relationship with the culture of the Southwest. Over the years, the brand has become present in many of the gatherings, festivals and celebrations that bring people together.
‘That connection is rooted in the omoluabi values that have long guided Yoruba society respect, dignity and a deep sense of community. Supporting cultural platforms like this is one of the ways we honour those values and show appreciation to the communities that have embraced Goldberg for decades.
‘That is why our partnership with the Egbaliganza Lisabi festival feels particularly meaningful. The story of Lisabi is a reminder of what leadership, courage and unity can achieve when a people decide to stand together. And that legacy continues to shape the identity of the Egba people today.
‘What Egbaliganza has done so beautifully is take that heritage and give it contemporary expression.Through fashion, craftsmanship and creative storytelling, the festival has created a stage where culture is seen, worn and celebrated with pride. The elegance of Aso-Oke, the boldness of traditional design, the pride with which people present themselves are expressions of identity’.
And in a time when the world is moving quickly and cultures can easily lose their voice, platforms like Egbaliganza play an important role. They remind us that heritage is not something to be locked away in the past. It is something that must continue to live, evolve and inspire the next generation’.
