How The Egbas Brought Their Fashion A-Game To The 2025 Lisabi Festival

If there’s one thing the Egba people know how to do, it’s how to show up in style. This year’s Lisabi Festival witnessed a resplendent display of fashion and splendour, where every gele tilt, agbada swirl, and adire pattern told a story rich in culture and pride.
In line with its ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural traditions, MTN Nigeria proudly supported the 38th edition of the Lisabi Festival. The brand’s sponsorship reflects its dedication to celebrating the rich history, glitz, glamour, and craftsmanship that define events like these.
Lisabi Festival is held annually to commemorate Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, the legendary warrior who united the Egba people, but to put it frankly, it’s also a runway. Months before the event, Egba families were already debating fabrics, commissioning the best tailors, and sourcing statement pieces that would set them apart.
And when the day arrived? They delivered.
The women? Elegant. Think heavily embroidered adire, aso-oke in the richest shades of wine and gold, beads that whispered royalty, and geles tied high enough to announce their presence from a mile away.
The men? Not left out. Flowing agbadas, velvet caps sitting just right, and handcrafted leather shoes that spoke of class and confidence. Some rode in on horseback, others strolled in with swagger, but one thing was clear: Egba fashion is an art form.
Here are stunning photos capturing the grandeur, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant fashion that defined the 2025 Lisabi Festival!