By Ayomide Otitoju
Ecobank Nigeria has announced the return of its flagship cultural showcase, the Adire Lagos Experience, with the fifth edition scheduled to hold from June 11 to 14, 2026, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre.
The 2026 edition, themed “Threads Across Borders,” will celebrate Adire as a distinctly Nigerian textile art while positioning it within a broader Pan-African cultural and creative landscape. The event is designed to promote cross-border collaboration and reinforce Ecobank’s vision of driving culture-led commerce across Africa.
According to the bank, the four-day exhibition will feature over 100 vendors, the majority of whom will be Nigerian, reflecting the country’s status as the hub of Adire production. In a move to encourage continental exchange, about 10 percent of participants will be drawn from other African countries, showcasing diverse textile traditions and fostering creative partnerships.
Speaking ahead of the event, Omoboye Odu, Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, said the initiative balances cultural authenticity with broader African inclusion.
She noted that while Adire remains deeply rooted in Nigerian heritage, the platform also provides an opportunity for collaboration and shared learning among African creatives, helping to strengthen trade connections and elevate the continent’s craftsmanship.
In addition to exhibitions, the event will feature indigenous cuisine, live music, and cultural performances, alongside curated networking sessions aimed at connecting stakeholders across the creative value chain, including artisans, designers, merchants, and buyers.
Ecobank also disclosed that registration for prospective exhibitors is ongoing, with selected participants eligible for complimentary booths. Applications are expected to close on April 28, 2026.
The Adire Lagos Experience forms part of Ecobank’s broader commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and promoting the creative economy, while positioning Nigerian heritage as a driver of economic growth and Pan-African integration.
