Ecobank Nigeria has announced the return of its cultural and entrepreneurial event, the Adire Lagos Exhibition, for its fourth edition. The exhibition, which has now become a major annual showcase of Nigeria’s cultural identity, is scheduled to bring together over 120 vendors to celebrate the rich tradition of Adire textile, one of Nigeria’s most iconic fashion heritages.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the bank said this year’s edition promises to blend the old and the new, combining traditional hand-dyed fabrics with modern styles to highlight Nigeria’s evolving fashion and cultural landscape. The exhibition will feature a wide range of activities designed to attract fashion lovers, cultural enthusiasts, local artisans, entrepreneurs, and tourists.
Ecobank’s Head of SME Banking, Mrs. Omoboye Odu, expressed her excitement over how much the Adire Lagos platform has grown over the years. She noted that the event is now not only a fashion and cultural celebration but also an important avenue for boosting Nigeria’s creative economy and encouraging tourism.
“Adire Lagos has grown into an influential platform that not only promotes tourism but also celebrates local artistry and strengthens the creative economy,” she said. “We’re expecting a diverse group of exhibitors, international vendors, influencers, and members of the diplomatic community. This is an invitation to experience Nigerian culture at its finest.”
Beyond the Adire fabrics, the exhibition will showcase various cultural elements, including indigenous Nigerian dishes, live music and dance performances, interactive masterclasses in textile-making and dyeing, as well as networking opportunities for artisans, fashion designers, and other stakeholders in the creative industry.
The Adire fabric, traditionally associated with the Yoruba people, is known for its beautiful hand-dyed patterns made using resist-dyeing techniques. In recent years, the material has gained popularity both locally and internationally, becoming a symbol of Nigerian pride and craftsmanship.
Ecobank said the exhibition is part of its broader strategy to support the development of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and the creative industry. The bank described itself as the leading financial institution in Nigeria supporting SMEs and emphasized its commitment to providing platforms that empower businesses and creative talents to reach wider markets.
The bank noted that by creating opportunities like Adire Lagos, it is helping to give creatives and entrepreneurs increased visibility, market access, and financial support. “This is not just an event; it is a movement to preserve our culture while building sustainable businesses,” the statement read.
Ecobank has over the years used the Adire Lagos Exhibition to connect small business owners with buyers, investors, and influencers who can help promote their products. The event also gives attendees a chance to learn more about Nigerian history and traditional art forms through direct engagement with artisans and cultural experts.
Past editions of the exhibition have been praised for their organisation, variety of products, and the platform they offer emerging designers and vendors to gain recognition. The growing popularity of the event suggests that it is fast becoming a must-attend occasion for those interested in Nigerian heritage and fashion.
The 2025 edition is expected to attract even larger crowds, with participants coming from different parts of the country and abroad. Ecobank’s support for this event is a clear signal of its dedication to using culture as a driver of economic growth.
