Journalists with the Alake of Egbaland,Oba Micheal Gbadebo

Adejoke Adeleye Ogun 

His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, has called on sons and daughters of Egbaland at home and abroad to join in celebrating its Traditional festival, LISABI’ Festival.

Oba Gbadebo made the call while addressing newsmen at a press conference to declare the commencement of the 38th Lisabi festival held at Ake palace on Monday, 24th March 2025.

He however lamented that Nigeria despite its vast land still imports foods and struggles to feed its citizens hence for the theme: Back To Land: Panacea For Food Sustainability And Youth Employment In Egbaland, stating that if youths engage in farming, rather than roaming the street, then the issue of unemployment would be addressed.

He declared that the festival will begin on March 31st to April 6th 2025.

The Monarch, however, announced that late Oba Oladapo Idowu Ademola II, Alake of Egbaland, who reigned for 42 years between  1920 and 1962, would be recognized for his significant contributions in Egbaland.

He said that the festival is designed to engage all segments of the society, showcase Egba traditions, historical sites, games, school debates, among others. He urged all Egba sons and daughters to join hands in celebrating the rich endowed culture and to promote development in Egbaland.

He noted that a diverse program designed to engage all segments of society, showcasing Egba traditions, cuisine, and historical sites, games, exhibition and agric show, school debates, chieftancy installation, commissioning of refurbished toilet facilities, Egba Fashion celebration, among others.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to commence the festival, emphasizing its role as a “vibrant rallying point” for Egba people.

He also highlighted the resilience and leadership qualities of the Egba people, inspired by the legendary Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, adding that the festival will surpass previous editions.

He welcomed visitors to experience the “unique hospitality of EGBA people.”

“Lisabi Festival remains a vibrant rallying point for all Egba sons and daughters, both home and in the diasporas, to celebrate our richly endowed culture.”

“Our choice of the Hero of this year’s celebration, Oba Sir Ladapo Idowu Ademola II, Alake of Egbaland 1920-1962, is apposite considering our revered monarch’s contributions to the history, development and qualitative accomplishment of Egbaland during his glorious reign as the Alake of Egbaland.”

In his remark, the Chairman Lisabi Festival Committee, Rasheed Raji, explained that the theme of the Festival was selected to help youths return to the farm and address the issue of food insecurity facing the country.

He added that it would also help them see the reason to produce in large quantities for exportation purposes.