Lagos: Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting and advancing Nigeria’s creative industry during a closing gong ceremony at the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) in Lagos, marking the 15th anniversary of the Lagos Fashion Week.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sanwo-Olu commended the organisers of Lagos Fashion Week for maintaining the platform for over a decade, describing it as a significant showcase of African creativity and innovation. He highlighted Lagos as a global hub of fashion, art, and entrepreneurship, providing opportunities for young designers and creators to reach international audiences. The governor affirmed that the Lagos State government is dedicated to fostering an environment where innovation, creativity, and talent can flourish.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of Lagos Fashion Week as an internationally recognized event that promotes Africa’s creative excellence and economic potential. He acknowledged the Nigerian Exchange Group’s recognition of the creative sector’s contribution to national growth and announced a series of cultural, entertainment, and fashion events planned through December to celebrate Lagos’ vibrant creative energy.
The Chairman of the NGX Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, praised Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership and efforts to position Lagos as Africa’s creative and commercial capital. Kwairanga noted Lagos State’s innovative use of the capital market to fund critical infrastructure and social projects that enhance the creative economy. He commended the organisers of Lagos Fashion Week and Style House Files for transforming Nigeria’s fashion industry into a global brand and for demonstrating that creativity is an engine for economic inclusion and social impact.
Kwairanga highlighted the opportunities provided by the NGX growth board for fashion and creative entrepreneurs to raise capital and strengthen governance. He emphasized the Exchange’s commitment to supporting creative entrepreneurs and democratizing finance to promote inclusivity.
Mr Tokunbo Akerele, Chairman of Lagos Fashion Week and Style House Files, expressed gratitude to partners and stakeholders who have contributed to the platform’s success over the past 15 years. Akerele reflected on the initiative’s challenges and its growth into one of Africa’s leading fashion showcases. He reiterated the platform’s commitment to promoting African designers and positioning Lagos as a global creative hub.
Mr Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director of NGX Group, reaffirmed the Group’s dedication to driving innovation across the economy, seeing immense potential in connecting creativity with capital. American singer Ciara Wilson also commended Nigeria’s creative momentum and the global potential of connecting creativity with structured investment.