Ogun to host N350m world’s tallest drum

2026-03-17 - 20:34

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta The Founder and Promoter of Egbaliganza Cultural Movement, Dr. Lai Labode Jnr, has unveiled plans to construct a N350 million “world’s tallest drum” in Ogun State, in a bold move aimed at boosting tourism and stimulating economic growth. Labode, who disclosed this on Tuesday, during a press briefing in Abeokuta ahead of the 2026 edition of Egbaliganza, a cultural and fashion initiative positioned to project Egba heritage on the global stage, said the project, christened Alake Egbaliganza Drum, is conceived as a global monument of unity and a major tourism asset for Egbaland and Nigeria at large. “We shall also be cutting the tape for the construction of the world’s tallest drum. This drum of unity will be built by an Egba son and funded through contributions from people across the world,” he said. “It is not going to be financed by a few individuals. People globally will contribute, own it, and in the process draw tourists to Egbaland. Our budget for this world-class tourist site is N350 million.” Tracing the origin of the initiative, Labode explained that Egbaliganza, which debuted in 2024 alongside the Lisabi Festival, was inspired by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, who challenged Egba indigenes to champion ideas that would drive development. He described Egbaliganza as a transformative platform blending fashion with culture to preserve the rich heritage of the Egba people for future generations. “Egbaland cannot rely solely on its past glory — we must create a new legacy,” he stated. “Egbaliganza seeks to accentuate the fusion of fashion and Egba culture, in a bid to preserve our heritage and pass it on to the next generation.” The cultural enthusiast further revealed that the 2026 edition of the event would witness unprecedented international participation, with over 50 countries expected to take part. “More than 50 countries will be present to pay homage to Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala and the Alake of Egbaland. There will also be a parade showcasing our beautiful local attires, some of which will be worn by our revered monarchs,” he added. “Egbaliganza, now evolving into Alake Egbaliganza, will always be part of the Lisabi Festival. It is designed to showcase our cultural richness while driving economic growth through tourism and investment,” he clarified. He also called on Egba indigenes, particularly those in the diaspora, to rally support for the initiative. “This is our time to act, to build, and to lead. The transformation of Egbaland is tied to the development of Ogun State, Nigeria, and Africa at large,” he said. Labode added that efforts are ongoing to preserve rare cultural artefacts, including century-old Adire fabrics, to ensure the continuity of Egba history. “Egbaliganza is more than a festival; it is a movement to celebrate heritage, inspire innovation, unite people, and build the future,” he affirmed.