The Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, has concluded plans for the establishment of Africa’s largest handwoven fabric factory in Abeokuta, a project aimed to reposition Egbaland and Ogun State as the hub of African fashion and textile production.
Penpushing reports that the founder of the organization Chief Lai Labodej (junior) made this known at the graduation ceremony of 27 trainees of the foundation held on Saturday in Abeokuta.
The founder who is the Balogun of Ijaiye explained that the initiative goes beyond fabric making, adding that it is a movement designed to empower Egba people, revive local craftsmanship, and project African fashion into 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 Egbaland, we will build for Ogun State, and we will build for Nigeria”, he stated.
Penpushing further reports that Labode disclosed that the factory started operations with 200 weaving machines, making it the biggest of its kind on the continent, with assurance that it will produce high-quality fabrics for local use and export as well as training more youths 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. We want to see Abeokuta export fabrics to the rest of the world’, he emphasised
Penpushing also reports that the foundation boss, who is the son of a veteran journalists, Alhaji Lai Labode used the ceremony to disclosed that the forthcoming 2026 annual Egbaliganza Festival will feature fabrics truly made in Egbaland by local artisans.
The initiator at the ceremony unveiled a continental initiative — the Confederation of African Fashion, which he described as a platform that will shape policies, standards, and 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 said.
Penpushing reports that Labode added that the confederation, will introduce a Fashion Olympics, where African countries can compete and showcase their creativity, adding that maiden edition will take place in Abeokuta.
The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, in his remarks commended Labode for his visionary leadership and for upholding the Egba tradition of excellence.
“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’, he said
Penpushing further reports that the Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Olufemi Ilori Oduntan, in her contributions lauded the initiative, describing it as a landmark development 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. 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’, she stated
Penpushing also reports that one of the graduands, Blessings Ibyemi Bankole, described the eight-week training as a life-changing experience that 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 said.
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