In Abeokuta, where history and identity often find
expression through culture, an ambitious idea is beginning to take shape, one
that its promoters believe could redefine how heritage drives economic growth.
At the centre of this vision is Dr. Lai Labode Jnr, founder
of Egbaliganza, a cultural movement designed to reshape not only Ogun State’s
cultural landscape but also its economic prospects. Speaking during a briefing
on Tuesday ahead of this year’s Egbaliganza celebration held in conjunction
with the 39th Lisabi Festival, Dr. Labode unveiled plans for a striking project: the
construction of what is projected to be the world’s tallest drum, with an
estimated cost of N350 million.
Conceived as a
“drum of unity,” it is intended to serve as a global tourist attraction capable
of drawing attention to Egba land while stimulating local enterprise. According
to Labode, the project will not rely on a handful of financiers; instead, it
will be collectively funded by contributors from around the world, giving it a
shared sense of ownership and global relevance.
“This is not a project for a select few,” he explained. “It
is something people across the world will contribute to and identify with.” The
structure, to be named the Alake Egbaliganza Drum, will also carry a strong
local imprint, as it is expected to be built by an Egba indigene.
The announcement ties into a broader cultural revival effort
anchored by Egbaliganza itself, a festival that first took shape in 2024. Its
creation, Labode noted, was inspired by a challenge from the Alake and
paramount ruler of Egba land, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, who had called on Egba sons
and daughters to develop innovative ideas capable of advancing both the
community and the nation.
Since then, Egbaliganza has carved out a distinct identity
by blending fashion with tradition. The festival places a spotlight on Egba
heritage through carefully curated displays of indigenous attire, positioning
culture not as nostalgia but as a living, evolving asset. This year’s edition
promises to expand that vision significantly.
Dr. Labode revealed that delegations from more than 50 countries
are expected to attend, joining in homage to the legendary Lisabi Agbongboakala
while also paying respect to Oba Gbadebo. The event will feature elaborate
parades of locally crafted fashion, with royal figures, including the Alake and
the Olowu, Oba Matemilola, participating in showcasing traditional designs.
Amid growing attention around the festival’s expansion, Dr. Labode also addressed concerns about any perceived rivalry with the
longstanding Lisabi Festival. He dismissed such notions, emphasizing that
Egbaliganza, now evolving into what will be known as Alake Egbaliganza, remains
an integral part of the broader celebration, working in harmony to promote Egba
culture.
Beyond pageantry, the underlying ambition is clear: to
position culture as a driver of investment and tourism. With the proposed drum
monument serving as a focal point, the organisers are betting on heritage not
just as identity, but as infrastructure, one capable of attracting global
interest while reinforcing local pride.
If realised, the project could stand as a towering testament
to what is possible when tradition meets vision, an idea rooted in Egba land,
but designed to resonate far beyond it.
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