Chief Lai Labode, the Balogun of Ijaye and Founder of the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, has unveiled Africa’s largest handwoven fabric factory in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in a bold move to empower youths, revive indigenous craftsmanship, and position Egba land as a leading hub for African fashion and textile production.
The historic launch, which took place during the graduation ceremony of 27 trainees of the foundation on Saturday, marked a new phase of empowerment and industrial growth for Egba youths and artisans.
Speaking at the event, Chief Lai Labode described the initiative as more than just fabric production. According to him, it is a revolutionary movement aimed at empowering Egba people, reviving indigenous craftsmanship, and projecting African fashion onto the global stage.
“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.”
“We will build for Egba land, we will build for Ogun State, and we will build for Nigeria,” he said.
Labode revealed that the factory began operations with 200 weaving machines, making it the largest of its kind on the African continent.
He added that it will produce high-quality fabrics for local use and export while providing training opportunities for more young people.
“We don’t want a situation where people work so hard and earn peanuts. This initiative is about genuine empowerment. We want to see Abeokuta export fabrics to the rest of the world,” he noted.
He further announced that starting from 2026, the annual Egbaliganza Festival will feature fabrics truly made in Egba land by local artisans, thereby promoting cultural pride and economic independence.
In a move to further drive continental collaboration, Labode also unveiled a pan-African initiative the Confederation of African Fashion which he said would serve as a platform for shaping policies, setting standards, and promoting partnerships 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 disclosed that the Confederation will introduce a Fashion Olympics, where African countries will compete and showcase their creativity. According to him, the first edition will be hosted in Egba land.
In his remarks, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended Labode for his foresight and commitment to uplifting Egba heritage.
“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.”
“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,” Alake stated.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Olufemi Ilori Oduntan, lauded the project, describing it as a landmark development that aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s vision for industrial expansion 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.”
“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,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries of the training, Blessings Ibyemi Bankole, described the eight-week program as a life-changing experience that has opened her eyes to the cultural and economic value of indigenous fabrics.
“It has been a wonderful experience for me. I never imagined I could acquire so much knowledge within a short time.”
“This has inspired me to promote our culture and improve my skills in Aso Oke production,” she shared.
The project, which blends tradition with innovation, is expected to generate employment, strengthen local industry, and establish Ogun State as a major player in the global fashion economy.
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