I am deeply honoured to have joined His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, alongside distinguished sons and daughters of Egba land, revered dignitaries, and cultural enthusiasts, in celebrating the grandeur of the 39th Lisabi Festival 2026 held at the historic Alake Palace Square in Abeokuta. The occasion was indeed a remarkable display of our rich heritage, unity, and the enduring legacy of Egbaland.
The Lisabi Festival remains one of the most significant cultural celebrations among the Egba people, honouring the legendary hero Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, whose bravery and leadership in the 18th century led to the liberation of the Egba people from oppression. Historically, the remembrance and veneration of Lisabi have spanned well over a century, deeply rooted in Egba tradition, long before the formal structuring and modern organization of the festival in recent decades.
It is therefore important to respectfully note that while the current organized format of the festival may be in its 39th edition, the Lisabi Festival itself is not merely a 39-year-old celebration. The cultural observance, historical remembrance, and traditional reverence of Lisabi date back over 100 years, forming an integral part of Egba identity and heritage.
This distinction must be clearly preserved to maintain historical accuracy and integrity, especially in an era where digital records and social media documentation endure for generations.
It is unfortunate that some promoters of the festival, despite their commendable efforts in elevating its profile to global recognition, have not been entirely precise in presenting its historical timeline. In the same vein, it is respectfully observed that the Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, as the custodian of Egba culture and tradition, alongside esteemed royal institutions including the lineage of Oba Sir Ladapo Ademola II and Oba Oyebade Lipede, and notably Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, should continue to guide and ensure that historical narratives are accurately represented for posterity.
Indeed, while the modernization and promotion of the Lisabi Festival are commendable and necessary for cultural preservation and tourism development, it is equally essential that such promotion does not inadvertently distort or diminish the depth of our history.
The Egba people, both at home and in the diaspora, must remain steadfast in safeguarding the truth about our origins, traditions, and cultural milestones Lisabi festival is more than 39years celebrations
I therefore urge all stakeholders, organizers, historians, and cultural advocates to exercise due diligence and caution in their representations. Social media, as we know, does not forget, and the integrity of Egba history including that of the Lisabi Festival must be preserved with accuracy and pride.
I am particularly pleased with the unwavering support of Egba indigenous people, both within Nigeria and across the globe, who continue to uphold and promote not only the Lisabi Festival but other cultural festivals in Abeokuta. Your commitment is vital to sustaining our heritage for future generations.
As a proud Egba man from Abule Egba in Lagos, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Egba sons and daughters on the celebration of this year’s Lisabi Festival. May our unity remain strong, and may our history continue to shine as a beacon for generations to come.
Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla
Balogun of Wasimi Abule Egba
Ajagunla of Ojokoro. Aremo Ijako Orile. Akinjagunla
Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland
NIS, INS, PSU, DIL, ND, B.Sc, B.Tech, M.Sc.
