The ancient rocks of Abeokuta shook with pride and rhythm today as Egbaliganza 2026 — the spectacular flagship of the 39th Lisabi Festival — reached its thunderous climax at the historic Ake Palace.
Thousands of Egba sons and daughters, dressed in breathtaking “Made in Egba” adire, aso-oke, and modern heritage fashion, converged with international delegates from over 50 countries to honour Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary liberator whose courage forged the unbreakable spirit of “Egba Omo Lisabi.”
From sunrise, Ake Palace buzzed with colourful processions, pulsating traditional drums, graceful dancers, and the elegant sway of gele and beaded regalia.
This year’s edition stood out for its strong emphasis on local creativity: every showcased outfit was woven, dyed, cut, and stitched by skilled hands right here in Abeokuta — a powerful statement of self-reliance echoing Lisabi’s own legacy.
The Parade of Nations brought global flavour, with cultural ambassadors signing charters to link Egba heritage with creative economies worldwide. Youth innovation corners blended ancestral motifs with contemporary design,
while the fashion runway proved that Egba tradition is not frozen in time but boldly striding into the future.
The Alake of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR (Okukenu IV), graced the grand finale in majestic regalia, reinforcing the festival’s role in preserving Egba identity while opening Egbaland’s doors to the world through culture, trade, and tourism.
Speaking at the event, organisers from the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation declared:
“Lisabi taught us that unity is our greatest weapon. Today at Egbaliganza 2026, we are not just remembering history — we are living it, wearing it, and exporting it to the world. Abeokuta is rising as Africa’s cultural powerhouse.”
The week-long Lisabi Festival (March 23–29) has already featured the Lisabi Trade Fair, Olumo Rock pilgrimage, and community clean-ups. But today’s grand finale at Ake Palace remains the unforgettable highlight — a living celebration of courage, creativity, and communal strength.
Egba to the World!
As the sun sets on this historic Saturday, the roar of drums and the flash of adire continue to echo: the spirit of Lisabi lives on — louder, prouder, and more united than ever.
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