Lagos Commissioner Toke Benson-Awoyinka champions Adire fashion at a strategic meeting with Africa Fashion Week founder and UK envoy, aiming to boost Nigerian textiles globally

In a bold move to elevate Adire fashion and Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the global stage, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has hosted a strategic meeting with key stakeholders in the fashion and diplomatic communities.

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The high-level meeting brought together Her Majesty Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, founder of Africa Fashion Week London and Nigeria, and the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter.

The agenda centred on advancing the cultural and economic potential of Adire textiles  a distinctive indigo-dyed fabric synonymous with Yoruba identity — as a premium export and symbol of African creativity.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka reiterated the state government’s commitment to championing indigenous creativity, stating that Lagos will continue to provide robust support for platforms that empower designers, preserve cultural heritage, and stimulate economic growth.

“As the fashion and creative capital of Nigeria, Lagos remains a catalyst for innovation, style, and enterprise. We are proud to support initiatives that promote our cultural assets and inspire the next generation of creatives,” she said.

The Commissioner described the meeting as a landmark moment in the campaign to showcase Adire and other indigenous designs to the world.

She emphasised that collaborations with global partners such as Africa Fashion Week and the British diplomatic mission are instrumental in amplifying African narratives, bolstering the state’s creative economy, and enhancing its international cultural profile.

The meeting also featured discussions on the upcoming 15th edition of Africa Fashion Week London  a landmark celebration of African fashion excellence that has, over the years, served as a global launchpad for designers of African descent.

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As Lagos continues to position itself as Africa’s leading fashion hub, the renewed focus on Adire fashion signals a broader movement to preserve and promote indigenous artistry while creating sustainable economic opportunities for Nigerian artisans.