Aishah Waliyullah
The 39th edition of the Lisabi Festival has commenced in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with organisers placing strong emphasis on apprenticeship training and the preservation of Egba cultural heritage.
Chairman of the Lisabi Festival Committee, Chief Rasheed Raji, disclosed this during a press conference, noting that this year’s celebration, scheduled to run from March 14 to March 29, would feature a blend of cultural displays and
developmental initiatives.
Raji said the theme, “Integrating Apprenticeship Training into Education,” was deliberately chosen to address the growing need for practical skills among Nigerian youths.
He explained that the programme timetable was adjusted to begin earlier than usual to accommodate students preparing for examinations.
According to him, the festival remains a platform for promoting the cultural identity and values of the Egba people.
“We want to showcase the ideals of Egba land and ensure that our culture is preserved and passed on to future generations,” he said.
Highlighting key activities lined up for the festival, Raji revealed that no fewer than 250 horse riders would participate in the traditional procession—an increase from previous editions. He added that the procession would be led by the Alake of Egbaland.
Speaking on the significance of this year’s event, the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, said the 2026 edition would witness broader international participation.
“This festival is different because we will have representatives from different countries around the world in attendance,” the monarch said.
He noted that beyond its cultural relevance, the festival had contributed to socio-economic development in Ogun State through initiatives such as scholarship schemes, job creation, provision of boreholes, improved water supply and free healthcare services.
The monarch also stressed the need to promote indigenous fashion, urging participants to prioritise locally made attire.
“At least eight out of every 10 outfits worn during the festival should be made in Abeokuta. We must take back our heritage,” he said.
Gbadebo further disclosed that the festival would continue to honour prominent Egba sons and daughters across various fields, including late Afrobeat icon, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
“One of the people we celebrate every year is Fela. All our people are celebrated during the Lisabi Festival,” he added.
On political participation, the committee chairman said politicians would not be excluded from the event, emphasising the need for inclusiveness and unity among stakeholders.
The Lisabi Festival, one of the foremost cultural celebrations in Ogun State, commemorates the legendary Egba hero, Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, and serves as a rallying point for unity, cultural promotion and community development among the Egba people.
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