Abeokuta, Nigeria - In a vibrant display of cultural pride and unity, the 38th Lisabi Festival took center stage in Abeokuta, Ogun State, drawing Egba indigenes from far and wide. Governor Dapo Abiodun seized the occasion to emphasize the importance of preserving the legacy of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary warrior who secured the Egbas' liberation. He highlighted the festival's role in fostering unity and strengthening cultural identity.

Themed ‘Back to Land: Panacea for Food Sustainability and Youth Empowerment in Egbaland’, this year's celebration resonated deeply with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, focusing on economic revitalization through agriculture. Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration's commitment to investing in agriculture, promising to empower young people and stimulate growth in rural communities. To support this initiative, he pledged to rehabilitate rural roads, facilitating the transportation of farm produce across the state.

Recognizing the importance of cultural heritage, the governor also committed to repairing the state’s cultural heritage monuments, with an eye towards enhancing revenue generation through tourism. He lauded this year's Lisabi Day celebrations as the best yet, urging attendees to emulate Lisabi Agbongbo Akala’s sacrifices and let his noble deeds inspire greater individual and collective achievements.

The Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, expressed his delight at the enthusiastic participation of the Egba people. He celebrated the festival's embrace of innovation, with new elements introduced to make the event unique and memorable. Oba Gbadebo emphasized that the diverse costumes and displays showcased unity, cultural strength, education, and pride in the Egba heritage. He welcomed fresh ideas to inspire imagination within the community.

Oba Gbadebo also extended his gratitude to Senator Ibikunle Amosun for constructing the amphitheater that hosted the celebrations. The venue provided a fitting space for the festival, allowing attendees to comfortably partake in the festivities. The Kabiyesi, in a modern cart alongside other Obas, chiefs, and dignitaries, made a grand entrance, showcasing the traditional Egbaliganzer attire and further emphasizing the rich heritage of Egbaland.