Joy Agwunobi
Ecobank Nigeria has announced the fourth edition of its flagship cultural event, the Adire Lagos Exhibition, scheduled to take place from June 5 to 8, 2025.
The exhibition, which has grown into a prominent fixture in Nigeria’s cultural and creative calendar, will take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The four-day showcase will celebrate the country’s rich textile heritage, particularly the Adire fabric, an indigenous hand-dyed cloth that symbolises craftsmanship and cultural pride
According to Ecobank, this year’s exhibition will feature over 120 vendors showcasing a wide range of Adire designs, fashion items, and lifestyle products. The event is expected to draw in a diverse audience, including fashion enthusiasts, cultural professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, and shoppers from across Nigeria and beyond.
Beyond the exhibition booths, attendees will enjoy a vibrant lineup of activities, including live musical performances, traditional food displays, interactive masterclasses on Adire-making, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration within the creative sector.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Omoboye Odu, head of SME Banking at Ecobank Nigeria, emphasised the growing impact of the exhibition on tourism, enterprise, and cultural preservation.
“The remarkable success of previous editions has inspired us to go even further this year. Adire Lagos has become a platform that promotes tourism, celebrates local artistry, and strengthens the creative economy. We are expecting high-profile exhibitors, international vendors, influencers, and members of the diplomatic and expatriate communities. This is truly an open invitation to everyone to experience Nigerian culture at its finest,” Odu said.
Odu further noted that the exhibition reflects Ecobank’s broader commitment to empowering creative entrepreneurs. Stating, “It’s more than an exhibition—it’s a celebration of our identity, innovation, and craftsmanship. We welcome everyone to join us for four vibrant days of culture, commerce, and connection.”
The Adire Lagos Exhibition is one of several cultural initiatives backed by Ecobank. Earlier this year, the bank hosted the +234Art Fair, which spotlighted emerging visual artists across Nigeria. It also introduced Oja-Ògè, a fashion pop-up market that highlights contemporary Nigerian design beyond Adire, reinforcing Lagos’ reputation as a burgeoning creative and fashion hub.
Ecobank’s continued investment in arts and culture underscores its positioning as Nigeria’s leading SME bank, particularly within the creative economy. Through tailored financial services and platforms like Adire Lagos, the bank aims to boost visibility, access, and long-term growth for local artisans and small businesses.
