Onome Amuge
Africa’s leather industry, often considered as a sector brimming with untapped potential, is set for a renewed push onto the global stage, according to Femi Olayebi, creative director of FemiHandbags and the driving force behind the Lagos Leather Fair.
Speaking ahead of the eighth edition of the event (LLF2025), scheduled for June 28-29 at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Olayebi described the industry as a sleeping giant bursting with so much potential. The Lagos Leather Fair aims to be the catalyst for this transformation, serving as a crucial platform to showcase the continent’s increasing talent and resources within the leather sector.
Under the inspiring theme of “DESIGNING FOR TOMORROW,” LLF2025 is poised to revolutionise the African leather scene, gathering visionary designers, master artisans, pioneering entrepreneurs, and key industry figures to map out an exciting new era for leather craftsmanship on the continent.
“LLF2025 is more than an event; it’s a dynamic movement dedicated to unleashing opportunities, sparking crucial conversations, and arming leather creatives with the insights, access and connectivity necessary to push-us forward.
”Designing for Tomorrow’ isn’t just a theme — it’s a call to action. The future demands innovation, a serious rethinking of our values, and a coming together of like-minded individuals focused on delivering excellence. It’s time to seize that future and make it our own,” Olayebi stated.
Since its groundbreaking launch in 2017, LLF has evolved beyond just an annual event into a powerful catalyst for innovation, market expansion, and international recognition of African leather brands.
According to the organiser, this year’s Fair takes an unprecedented leap forward, as it sets to not just showcasing talent but delivering solutions, empowering leatherpreneurs to navigate challenges and assert their rightful place on the global stage.
As highlighted by participants and stakeholders, LLF is transforming into a year-round force for change, leveraging strategic partnerships to tackle critical industry challenges, including raw material access, supply chain efficiency, financing, global market ambitions, and the adoption of cutting-edge technology.
Highlights of LLF2025 include exhibitions where participants discover a curated selection of Africa’s most promising leather brands.
The event is also set to showcase masterclasses & conversations where participants have the chance to engage with over 20 industry experts on transformative topics like the use of AI in leather design, the importance of pricing right, navigating cross-border payments, and the Made-in-Africa phenomenon.
LLF 2025 would also include workshops where participants will have the opportunity to gain practical insights from industry experts. These sessions will cover critical business aspects such as branding and marketing, product development, the use of digital tools for leather creatives, etc. Runway Shows: Witness the artistry in leather design as it redefines creativity, innovation and craftsmanship.
Other highlights of the event include runway shows where participants would witness the artistry in leather design as it redefines innovation and craftsmanship. Others are:
The LLF Accelerator: A groundbreaking opportunity for emerging designer brands to learn, secure mentorship and networking opportunities, and gain insights on strategies for business growth.
The LeatherPreneur Challenge: This entails a pitching session at the Fair during which a few selected brands will present their business ideas to prospective investors.
The Maker’s Bench: An interactive, hands-on space where visitors at the Fair will be given an opportunity to learn some leathercrafting basics, guided by skilled makers.
LLF Awards: Presentation of awards to celebrate the trailblazers setting new standards in African leather.
Leather Installation: A dedicated space showcasing the magic and the versatility of leather.
