Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 set to unveil $1bn textile industry in Abeokuta

 

Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025, a cultural event celebrating the heritage of the Ẹ̀gbá people, is set to unveil a $1 billion fashion and textile industry in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The event, scheduled to take place on April 5, 2025, is designed to promote the Ẹ̀gbá culture, fashion, and heritage, while also creating economic opportunities for local artisans, designers, and textile entrepreneurs.

According to Chief Lai Labode, Osi Apagun, the visionary behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza, the event aims to establish a $1 billion value chain in the indigenous textile industry, particularly in Adire and other traditional fabrics.

"We are building an industry that will not only celebrate our past but also secure our future," Labode said.

The event will feature stunning fashion showcases, artistic exhibitions, and live performances that will bring Ẹ̀gbá history to life. It will also include business empowerment sessions, connecting local entrepreneurs with international opportunities.

The Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is supported by the Lisabi Committee and the Egba Legacy Network, and is expected to attract visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

With its rich cultural heritage and economic potential, Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is set to be a landmark event that will shape the future of Nigeria's heritage economy.

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,” the organisers said.

Through structured training programmes, 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 unveiled the 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. Through this platform, we are creating opportunities, reviving our heritage, and securing the economic future of our people,” Labode said.

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.

Chief Yemi Lawal, Chairman of Ẹ̀gbáliganza, highlighted the connection between the event and the Lisabi Festival. "Lisabi Festival honors our history, and Ẹ̀gbáliganza projects that legacy into the future," he said.

Chief Abiodun Atobatele, Vice Chairman of Ẹ̀gbáliganza, discussed the importance of investing in the textile industry. "Fashion is one of the most visible and commercially viable aspects of culture," he said. "By investing in our textile industry, we are not only preserving heritage but also creating sustainable wealth for our people."

Ayokunle Odebiyi, representing Northern Hills Company, the marketing partner of Ẹ̀gbáliganza, shared his insights on the event's branding efforts.

Cash Token, a corporate sponsor of the event, emphasized the importance of investing in cultural heritage. "Culture is identity, and identity is value. Investing in Ẹ̀gbáliganza means investing in the future of Nigeria's creative economy."

Chief Mustapha, Director of Projects, provided insights into the planning behind Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025.

With its rich cultural heritage and economic potential, Ẹ̀gbáliganza 2025 is set to be a landmark moment in the history of Ẹ̀gbáland.

TASUED: Adeoye asks Abiodun to upgrade Abeokuta technical college to university

A financial expert and legal practitioner, Gbenga Adeoye has asked Governor Dapo Abiodun to upgrade the Abeokuta Technical College to a university.

This was in reaction to the takeover of the Tai Solarin University of Education by the Federal Government.

Adeoye celebrated former Governor Gbenga Daniel for establishing TASUED during his tenure.

“This man OGD came up with the idea of ICT Colleges which later became Polytechnics in all the three Senatorial District. Igbesa and Saapade people will never forget the impact .We have Adegbenro ICT in the central too and Amb Toye Okanlawon was appointed by Dapo Abiodun as Chairman of council.

“South West ICT training centre in Abeokuta also came during his tenure. He wanted the Stock Exchange in Abeokuta too. That same OGD built Laderin Estate for Civil servants at a price less than N800,000. I have professional colleagues who are beneficiaries.

“TASUED is solid enough for Federal Government to adopt it. Glory to God. It remains the first university of education in Nigeria. To this end, I say congratulations to Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Ogun State and my inlaws, the Ijebus and Awujale because the university is on the land of the Ijebus (more or else in preparation for Ijebu State. I pray it becomes a reality). When a university is appraised and found good for adoption by FGN in one's domain, then it calls for celebration,” he stated.

Adeoye maintained that the next action should be how to turn the technical college to a university with campuses in all the three senatorial districts.

“Next is for us to see how we can turn the Technical College at Abeokuta to Abeokuta Technical University (ATU) with campuses in all the three Senatorial District and main Campus at Idi Aba Abeokuta.

“I urge Prince Dapo Abiodun to act fast and make history by converting Technical College Idi-Aba to Abeokuta Technical University just as TASUED is making history today and no one can forget OGD who laid the foundation.

“I volunteer to provide pro bono support service to bring this to reality,” he stated.

 He also begged that Federal Government to retain the name as 'TASUED' and not attempt to change it.

“TASUED is now a Federal University just as UNILAG remains a Federal University and the beauty of that great University is to keep the name, TASUED.

“May God bless OGD, God bless Amosun, God bless Dapo Abiodun and his team , God bless Ogun State, God bless Nigeria, God bless Tinubu, God bless the Minister of Education and NUC.

“I also pray that God will bless the Ijebu Heritage Group and other Associations; both known and unknown, and those who worked behind closed doors to ensure TASUED becomes a Federal University of Education,” he submitted.

Egbas condemn sale of land belonging to Technical School, Idi-Aba

 

Think thank groups in Egbaland have come out to strongly oppose the demarcation and selling of estate land at the Technical School, Idi Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In a statement signed by notable Egba businessmen in Abeokuta on February 8, the Egbas held that the land should be left as part of the Technical School for its future growth into a university.

They said: “Technical Education is vital to the industrial development of Ogun State.

“A member of Egba Economic Summit facilitated over $1m worth of equipment into the Technical School some years ago. The school is positioned to become a Technical University in the future.

The land beside the school was the estate where most Commissioners lived when Ogun State was created about 49 years ago. Notable properties in the area include Baptist Girls' College, and if their land had not been sold over the years, the current growth would not have been easily accommodated. 

“A member of the Egba Economic Summit also built the clinic and the computer lab of the technical school. All Egbas home and abroad are therefore in opposition to any form of disposal of the said land, and it should be left to serve as part of the technical school land to enhance the future transformation of the school into a Technical University to build young men and women to feed the industrial growth in Ogun State.”

They warned that the Egbas will not fold their hands and allow all the labour of Ogun State's past heroes to be wasted just like that.

“If the land is sold to anyone, this write-up should serve as notice of caveat emptor and such a person will be confronted to forfeit same to the technical school through all legitimate methods available to us.

“We therefore appeal to the Ogun State Government and all agencies of the government to desist from such a plan,” a statement by the Egba Economic Summit Group and all Egba Think Tank warned.

Ajibola celebrates Segun Showunmi on his birthday

A Public Relations Consultant, Worldfamous Ajibola Oluwafidipo, has celebrated Otunba Segun Showunmi on his birthday describing him as a league of his own.

Ajibola writes:

Otunba Segun Showunmi, you are in a league of your own, no one comes close

When I met you some time ago, and I saw your passion and desire to ensure that our great nation begin to live to it potential maximally, I had thought you were one of the few who are naturally Apostolic only on Sundays and Satanic from Monday to Saturday, meaning, the interest is just a caricature, but as time goes on, the tempo has not dropped, the desire is being ardently pursued, the pain you bear when you discuss the state of the Nation with me in the closet, is the same you carried to the media and say it to the world the way it is.

When I consider the amount of money you spent on media, I, then realized that there is more to this than what an average politician carried, if it was appointment, I know many times you have been offered juicy ones which you declined, you told me in one of our closet discussions that not all appointments are to be taken.

It took me time to understand your philosophy and the reason for this vigorous pursuit for a great Nigeria, having seen many politicians that when they are an inch closer to the gate of power, the rhythm changes, but for you, steadfastness is entrenched, you will say it the way it is, I learnt from you that one should not wait for applause and that even if what you are saying is unpopular among the elites, once it serves the interest of the masses stick to it.

Otunba Segun Showunmi, you are in a league of your own, in a class of your own Excellency, you are not like them, who say 10 words and one cannot be proven to be true.

The funniest thing is that the minute majority that you are speaking to advocate for, are the ones being paid stipends to come attack you on social media, you still make efforts to enlighten them and give them reasons why the people in government should do better.

Showunmi I started laughing the day I realized you know all of them like the palm of your hand, all the blood suckers who are milking the political system dry, the day I know how they come behind the seen to salute you for speaking senses into their senseless skulls, then I realized that these people are naturally wicked and heartless and that it will take a conscientious effort of a true patriot like you to set their brain in the right order.

Sagua, do not worry if you are under celebrated, this is the world where people will offer Jesus to be killed instead of a thief, do not commit it to heart when they over celebrate you this is the world where they will say Hossanah today, crucify him tomorrow, just keep doing your things, the future is now, it will only get better.

Another thrilling thing about you is your compassion for the poor, you are the type who help people without setting a camera or shouting at the rooftop, even Rep members, Senate member, Executives who are robbing Peter to pay Paul are always taking camera to capture what they are using our common wealth for so that we can ignorantly applaud them.

I salute your courage, the ranting of a mad rabid dog is not given a second thought by you, rather you roar and walk away leaving them trembling and fearful.

Permit me to borrow some lines from a traditional poem written by Adedeji Babalola titled 'Salute to an Elephant'

Ajanaku, the possessor of a savings- basket full of money, O Elephant huge as a hill, even in crouching posture, O elephant, enfolded by honour, Segun, flapping fans of war, Segun Showunmi who snaps tree branches into many pieces and moves on to the forest farm, you ignore “I have fled to my father for refuge", let alone 'to my mother'.

A mountainous Animal, a huge beast who tears a man with words like a garment and mold those who deserve to be molded with same, and hangs them up on a tree. 

The sight of you causes political thieves to stampede towards a hill of safety, (their Godfather), Ajanaku who walks with a heavy tread. Showunmi who swallows their antics and hatred bunches whole, even with the spiky pistil-cells. 

Showunmi who single-handedly causes a tremor in a dense tropical forest. 

Otunba whom one sees and points towards with all one's fingers. 

Their political boast at home is not repeated when they really meet the Showunmi, just the way the hunter's boast at home is not repeated before the elephant. 

Oh the great swordsmith, the coiner of his words, this is part and parcel of the Segun Showunmi's appellation. 

If you wish to know the Showunmi, he continually swings his trunk sprinkling water of relief on all and sundry.

Oh Sagua respectfully called the Solomon of our time by all.

Your analysis always makes them stayed glued to their seats, the man they call to thank for helping them solve their almighty formula.

Anthony that they see and call him Ekun, the only man who will not sugarcoat a bitter pill, no matter how close to Otunba he will not hesitate to give you your coin, the man I call Conscience of the Nation, title that are usually given to those who will speak the truth in the face of persecution and tyranny.

As you celebrate another landmark today, may the good Lord continue to uphold you and grant you peace in Jesus name.

As we champion the need to embrace the alternative ways of doing things apart from their crooked ways, may the light of God illuminates your path the more…

The future we have been waiting for is here…

Worldfamous Ajibola Oluwafidipo

Chief Promoter Ayidayida Communications

Media/ PR Consultant.

Don't forget the ladder that took you up, Showunmi tells Fubara

Segun Showunmi 

A former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ogun State, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State not to forget the ladder that took him to the top, urging him to be wary of the antics of hypocrites as he clocks 50.

Showunmi said that while he would never support anyone playing God in the life of another person, Fubara should, however, not forget those who held the ladder for him while climbing up and must therefore prioritise good governance above every other consideration.

The PDP leader disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, issued to rejoice with the Rivers governor on the occasion of his 50th birthday. 

Showunmi urged Fubara to "Beware of friends who scream your praises, and never forget to always find space to reconnect with yourself, within yourself.

"It is the nature of people to praise today and curse immediately when the tides turn and you have fewer favours to dispense. It is especially so in that environment where you operate. 

"I have been around long enough to see them for the hypocrites they are, nevertheless, I trust that you will take things in your strides."

The PDP leader disclosed that Fubara must always remember that he is governor today by the efforts of men and the grace of God, he must therefore use the enviable position to impact his space and do as much good as he can to all that comes his way.

Showunmi said, "Amongst the words of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida that have stayed with me and will stay with me forever is what I wish to gift you on the occasion of your Golden jubilee. 

"He is said to have said that when climbing onto the top of the leadership ladder, someone or some people own the ladder you use to climb and that as you climb they become smaller in one's eyes for you are elevated by the ascension.

"They will keep their ladder, the top will get very hot for you at some point as it has for all at the top sometimes, if you treat the owners of the ladder mindfully, they will produce the ladder for your climb down otherwise they will leave you to jump down with its attendant consequences."

Showunmi added that Fubara must therefore put in his best in leadership, and create new leaders for the greatness of Rivers State while the Almighty God who is a mighty man of battle will continue to uphold his government and family.

Amosun a positively stubborn politician — Gbenga Adeoye

A financial expert, Gbenga Adeoye, has congratulated Senator Ibikunle Amosun, describing him as a positively stubborn politician.

In a statement, Adeoye said Amosun has remained positively stubborn as he moves closer to age 70.

Adeoye likened Amosun to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who he said he never shifted focus.

“As Senator Ibikunle Amosun move closer to age 70; he has remained positively stubborn as a politician. A few times I interacted with him; he showed a high level of courage and a strong stand for whatever he believes in. I can then describe him as a POSITIVELY STUBBORN POLITICIAN.

“Anyway; we have Baba OBJ also as a father in Egbaland who does not shift his focus, and he is never afraid to be the only one with a different view. Perhaps; for OBJ; I can understand him as a Soldier, but for Amosun; a civilian; it took special study for me to understand his philosophy,” Adeoye said.

He added that Amosun does not shift ground if he believes in something, stressing that he does not pretend about his choice in any matter.

Adeoye spoke further: “He does not act like a chameleon. If Amosun tells you he is going to Sapon, go to Sapon; you will meet him there, even if that Sapon appears dangerous in terms of what you think is achievable there.

“When he was embarking on the Landmark projects in Ogun State; he once visited my mentor; Dr. Onaolapo Soleye among other consultations or what could be called notifications to explain why he must demolish some houses to make sure Abeokuta wore the right look of a state capital.

“The elders were worried about his demolition plans, but he convinced them and he succeeded. He did the same at Sagamu and Ijebu Ode. Those roads and bridges are still standing today.

“What baffled me at a time was his support for a candidate for a governorship and I kept wondering how a man could be so determined to go in a particular direction and invest time and money yet some of us felt that candidate may not win, but he does not shake by your views or assumptions.

I now went further to do research into what was his motivation for any goal he wants to pursue; then I discovered he has a slogan that pushes him in anything he does- ’EYI OWU AWI, TOLUWA LASE'. (No matter what men say God's will shall be the final reality") What a high level of faith.

“I pray that as he celebrates his 67th birthday; May God honour his faith and trust in all his pursuits both in business and politics. 

“May God give him the good health required to support his age while I charge him to now behave as Baba 70 since he is 3 years to 70, meaning he cannot walk from his house to Ita Eko or to Ijaye and to Ake Palace like before.

“He should also become soft and flexible just like I told one of our Babas like him to slow down and be soft towards anyone he feels is not doing well by advising them on what to do and leave the rest.

Happy birthday Senator Omolaja Ibikunle Amosun, wishing him peace and daily joy.

Let's review Egba politics in 2027, Showunmi tells Amosun at 67

An Egba chief, Segun Showunmi, has congratulated the former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, on his 67th birthday, calling for the review of Ogun Central politics as 2027 approaches.

While appreciating Amosun for the arcade ground under construction in Ake palace, Showunmi, said it is time for Amosun to encourage a political review of Ogun Central, especially with 2027 in view. 

The PDP chieftain noted that Egba's legislative representation right now is very weak compared to its peers in Ogun East and especially Ogun West. 

According to him, the zone must work hard to correct this going forward.

He said it is expedient to put forward better materials to get the best representation.

His words: 

Happy Birthday Sen Ibikunle Amosun. On the occasion of this particular birthday of yours, I find my mind in deep reflection on your trajectory in politics especially your immense contributions to our homestead Ogun Central.

I want to thank you for the huge financial support to the ongoing project in the arcade of the Ake Palace Ground. It becomes more needing of mention for I am aware that even after office the project has continued to enjoy your generosity. 

As we proceed I believe it is time for you to encourage a political review of Ogun Central relative to how we play with 2027 in view. 

There is no begging the issue that our legislative representation right now is very weak compared to our peers in Ogun East and especially Ogun West. 

We must work very hard to correct this going forward. I think that it is expedient that we put forward better materials less we mope who'd the other senatorial district get their deserving rewards as a result of the quality of members put forward. 

Reflect on this as we sustainably plan the future. Many Happy Returns. 

Today Ajiri Omo’ye. Omo wa ni Ile Akinbola Itoko Abeokuta.

Egba will produce next Ogun governor – Chief Mustapha

High Chief Mustapha Abdul-Hakeem, a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and convener of Egba Agenda 2027, has restated his commitment to supporting an Egba-born candidate for the Ogun State governorship position in the 2027 election.

This was made known while speaking with newsmen in Abeokuta after his induction into the prestigious Abeokuta Club.

Th All Progressive Congress Chieftain from Ward 5 in Abeokuta South local Government Area of Ogun State said that the group will not renege in ensuring that the Ogun state government house is occupied by an Egba indigene in 2027.

While responding to the synergy between Abeokuta Club and the Egba Agenda Group, Chief Mustapha explained that Abeokuta Club is a revered institution that brings Egba elites together to foster development in the land and promote the cultural heritage of the Egbas. 

He further explained that the agenda of the Abeokuta Club aligns with the objectives of Egba Agenda Group, which is to promote the interests of all Egbas both home and abroad.

He posited that his contribution to the development of Egba land was the reason for being dragged into the Abeokuta Club. 

The Club which was founded in Nigeria has notable and well-meaning Egba Indigenes from all walks of life as members.

The induction ceremony was well attended by All Progressive Congress Party faithfuls, Egba chiefs, family, and well-wishers of Chief Mustapha.

CAGS Iperu old students condole Oriyomi-Onanuga's family, constituents

Members of the Christ Apostolic Grammar School Old Students Association (CAGSOSA) have expressed sadness over the passing of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi-Onanuga, who until her demise represented the Sagamu/Ikenne/Remo North Federal Constituency and served as the Deputy Chief Whip at the Federal House of Assembly, Abuja.

Her former schoolmates sympathised with her family and constituents, praying God give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

“On behalf of the National President, Mr. Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde, the National Executives, and all members of CAGSOSA extend our heartfelt condolences to the members of the Federal House of Assembly, the people of Ogun State—especially her constituency—and her immediate family.

“This is an irreplaceable loss not only to her family but to all who knew and were impacted by her remarkable service and dedication to the development of her constituency and beyond.

“We pray for the peaceful repose of her soul and that God grants her family and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this great loss,” a statement signed by Prince Gaffar Adesoga Owokalade, said.

Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda mourns Oriyomi-Onanuga

The Convener and the entire members of the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda have commiserated with the family Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi-Onanuga over her sudden death.

They also sympathised with the good Sagamu/Ikenne/Remo North Federal Constituency whom the lawmaker represented at the House of Assembly until her death on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.

In a statement, DACA convener, Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde, said Oriyomi-Onanuga, popularly recalled that Ijaya until her death, was the Deputy Chief Whip, Federal House of Representatives, Abuja.

“We are saddened by this irredeemable loss because we are not unaware of her major contributions to the development of her constituency through medical outreach, agricultural intervention programmes and advocacy for widows and the less privileged as well as proper education for the girl child.

“As we mourn her passing, we take solace in the Almighty God that our separation is temporal, and that her legacies will speak further many years after her demise.

“Let me mention that her political sagacity, business acumen and intellectual contribution to national issues at the Green chamber will be truly missed, we pray that the Almighty God grant her family and the entire people of Ogun State, the fortitude to bear this immense loss. May her soul find solace in God,” he concluded.

Gbenga Adeoye Mourns Cash Madam

Abeokuta, Ogun State – Dr. Gbenga Adeoye, a prominent figure in Abeokuta, is mourning the loss of the legendary businesswoman and philanthropist, Cash Madam, who passed away in the early hours of the morning.

In a heartfelt statement released on behalf of the Adeoye family of Lemo Compound, Erunwon, Ake, Abeokuta, Dr. Adeoye paid tribute to the fearless business guru, describing her as a woman whose influence and legacy transcended generations. He described Cash Madam as a “woman like a man,” noting her unmatched boldness and fearless approach to life and business.

Dr. Adeoye expressed his sorrow, stating that her passing has left the community in shock, especially after the recent loss of another influential figure, Iyalode Alaba Lawson. He fondly remembered his numerous interactions with Cash Madam, particularly on business and land matters, and admired her clarity of purpose and determination.

“Her ability to embrace the name 'Cash Madam' without hesitation was a testament to her fearless character,” Dr. Adeoye wrote, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to success. Her legacy, he noted, continues to inspire many, with songs and tributes pouring in to honor her life and achievements.

Dr. Adeoye also highlighted the way Cash Madam instilled values of giving and hard work in her children, with her son, Engr. Mutiu Adebowale, serving as a true reflection of her spirit. He commended Engr. Adebowale’s dedication to community service and his support for institutions like ICAN in Abeokuta.

In closing, Dr. Adeoye prayed for comfort and strength for Cash Madam’s family and the entire community as they come to terms with the loss. He also called for the emergence of new fearless women to follow in her footsteps, ensuring that her legacy continues to shape the future of Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria.

"Adieu, Cash Madam," he concluded, honoring a woman whose life will forever be etched in the history of Egbaland.

Dr. Adeoye’s statement reflects the deep sense of loss felt by the entire community, as Cash Madam’s passing marks the end of an era of bold leadership and entrepreneurial success.