From Egba to the World: Lai Labode Launches Africa’s Biggest Handwoven Fabric Hub

Chief Lai Labode, the Balogun of Ijaye and Founder of the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, has launched Africa’s largest handwoven fabric factory in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to empower youths, revive indigenous craftsmanship, and position Egba land as a global hub for African fashion and textile production.

The unveiling took place on Saturday during the graduation ceremony of 27 trainees of the foundation, marking a major step in combining cultural revival with modern economic empowerment.

Speaking at the event, Chief Labode said the initiative goes beyond fabric production, describing it as a movement designed to restore pride in Aso Egba, promote local creativity, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.

“This is not Aso Oke. In Egba, we call it Aso Egba, and we are very deliberate about what we are creating because Kabiyesi has asked us to start something unique for Egba land,” he said. “We will build for Egba land, we will build for Ogun State, and we will build for Nigeria.”

He revealed that the factory began operations with 200 weaving machines, making it the largest of its kind on the continent. According to him, the hub will produce high-quality fabrics for both local and international markets while equipping more young people with skills in weaving and textile entrepreneurship.

“We don’t want a situation where people work so hard and earn peanuts. This initiative is about genuine empowerment,” he added. “We want to see Abeokuta export fabrics to the rest of the world.”

Chief Labode also announced that starting from 2026, the annual Egbaliganza Festival will feature fabrics made in Egba land by local artisans, further showcasing the creativity and identity of the Egba people.

As part of his broader vision, he unveiled a continental project known as the Confederation of African Fashion, a platform that will shape policies, set standards, and foster collaboration within the African fashion industry.

“From Ogun State, we are establishing the Confederation of African Fashion. Its goal is to move Africa’s share of the global fashion market from 1.2 percent about $30 billion to $500 billion. This is our assignment as Egba people and as Nigerians,” he declared.

He added that the Confederation will introduce a Fashion Olympics, where African countries will compete and showcase their creativity, with the maiden edition to be hosted in Egba land.

In his goodwill message, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, praised Chief Labode for his vision and commitment to preserving Egba heritage while driving modern economic development.

“I’m highly elated and fulfilled because only the best always comes out of Egba land first and best in everything. Others will have to run after us,” the monarch said. “Lai Labode is a great manager of resources. May God help him manage this project better than ever before. Whatever support we can give, we will not hesitate.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Olufemi Ilori Oduntan, commended the initiative, describing it as a landmark project that aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s vision for industrial growth and youth empowerment.

“I’m very happy this is coming from Abeokuta, Ijaye, because I’m from Ijaye. This is what we have been praying and looking forward to,” he said. “His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is happy seeing this kind of development. It’s a plus for Ogun State and will promote our image globally. Our government will be fully involved in ensuring its success.”

One of the graduates, Blessings Ibyemi Bankole, described the eight-week training as a life-changing experience that has broadened her understanding of indigenous textile production.

“It has been a wonderful experience for me. I never imagined I could acquire so much knowledge within a short time,” she said. “This has inspired me to promote our culture and improve my skills in Aso Oke production.”