Ecobank Urges Nigerian Fashion SMEs To Tap Global Market

At the fourth edition of the Adire Lagos Exhibition Fair, Ecobank Nigeria called on small and medium-sized fashion businesses to step into the international spotlight. The bank believes Nigeria is primed to claim a significant stake in the global fashion industry, which is valued at over $100 billion. With Africa already contributing $30 billion to that figure, Nigeria has a compelling case to become a continental fashion powerhouse.

Omoboye Odu, Ecobank Nigeria’s Head of Small and Medium Enterprises, said the fair was part of the bank’s efforts to empower fashion entrepreneurs to earn foreign exchange and grow the local economy. “We want Nigerian entrepreneurs and creatives to be among the top 25 leading voices in African fashion,” she said. According to her, institutions such as the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are already providing funding to fashion industries across the continent, and Nigeria should not be left behind.

Cultural Craftsmanship Meets Global Opportunity

Held in Lagos, the fair spotlighted the iconic Adire fabric, drawing attention to Nigeria’s indigenous textile craft and its growing global appeal. Odu described the exhibition as a fusion of culture and commerce, designed to help local designers and textile producers connect with wider markets. The exhibition not only promoted visibility but also provided an avenue for direct sales and business networking, both locally and internationally.

Reflecting on last year’s turnout, Odu shared that the fair drew over 20,000 visitors in just four days, with one vendor reportedly earning N30 million in sales—an amount equal to six months of their usual revenue. “This year’s exhibition promises a dynamic blend of established brands and emerging designers who embody innovation, cultural pride, and export potential,” she added. More than 130 vendors participated this year, showcasing everything from adire apparel to lifestyle products.

National Recognition and CSR Impact

The event has drawn widespread attention from stakeholders in fashion, government, and the arts. Dignitaries in attendance included Lagos First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and the founder of Nike Art Gallery, Nike Davies-Okundaye. Their presence underscores the growing influence of Nigerian fashion on both a cultural and economic level.

For Ecobank, the fair is more than an exhibition—it’s a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative designed to boost SME visibility at zero cost. Odu reiterated the bank’s dedication to helping homegrown businesses succeed globally, saying the fair is a “key CSR initiative, offering SMEs a platform to showcase their products free of charge while fostering economic growth and national unity.”

Exhibitors were equally optimistic. Ms. Fadilat Lawal of Sanyaolu Trading Stores praised the durability and symbolism of Abeokuta’s Adire textiles, while Ms. Cynthia Uma of Cecesignature Unisex Clothing highlighted its increasing international demand and business potential.