History Made As Lai Labode Unveils Africa’s Largest Handwoven Fabric Factory in Ogun

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In a historic move to reposition Egba land and Ogun State as the hub of African fashion and textile production, the Balogun of Ijaye and Founder of the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, Chief Lai Labode, has announced the establishment of Africa’s largest handwoven fabric factory in Abeokuta.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony of 27 trainees of the foundation on Saturday, Lai Labode revealed that the initiative goes beyond fabric making, it is a movement designed to empower Egba people, revive local craftsmanship, and project 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”.

According to him, the factory began operations with 200 weaving machines, making it the biggest of its kind on the continent, adding that it will produce high-quality fabrics for local use and export while 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,” Labode added. “We want to see Abeokuta export fabrics to the rest of the world.”

Looking ahead, Chief Lai Labode announced that by 2026, the annual Egbaliganza Festival will feature fabrics truly made in Egba land by local artisans.

He also used the occasion to unveil 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 per cent — about $30 billion — to $500 billion. This is our assignment as Egba people and as Nigerians,” he said.

The Confederation, he added, will introduce a Fashion Olympics, where African countries can compete and showcase their creativity. The first edition, by the special grace of God, will take place in Egba land.

In his remarks, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended Lai 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,” the Alake 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.”

The Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Olufemi Ilori Oduntan, who hails from Ijaye, also 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 for 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.”

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.