AFWN Unveils Plans for 10th Anniversary 

For three days in December, Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) will stun the fashion world with its lined-up activities to mark its 10th anniversary. This includes a runway show which will have royalty walking strutting the runway.

“For the first time, we’re having the majesty of an African family,” said the convener, Queen Ronke Ademuliyi-Ogunwusi. “There’s going to be a lot of royal regalia representing different tribes and cultures in Africa and Nigeria. And we’re also going to have CEOs, MDS, and first ladies on the catwalk to inspire and encourage the designers.”

There will also be the  Emerging Designers Fashion Contest which aims to provide a platform for emerging Nigerian designers to showcase their talent and creativity.

“Our primary vision is empowering fashion creatives for financial stability,” remarked  Ademuliyi-Ogunwusi. She noted that over 3,000 African brands have been showcased on its various platforms locally and internationally since 2011, emphasising that it has been a springboard for emerging designers. The top designer of the Emerging Designers Fashion Contest will receive a sponsored opportunity to showcase work at Africa Fashion Week London 2025, as well as become a recipient of the Ultimate Discovery Award. All participating designers will receive a Certificate of Participation from the Royal House of Ife.

AFWN this year will feature a fundraising event, Luxury Hearts Fundraiser. Proceeds from an auction will go to an unprivileged community. It is also supported by Sterling Bank.

Ademuliyi-Ogunwusi also spoke on the importance of preserving Nigerian textiles. According to her, it is important to view the textile industry beyond the surface.

“Prior to the resurgence of adire, a lot of our textiles had died. In the 1960s, we had over 200 textile factories in Nigeria, especially in the north. Right now we only have about three. So reviving, promoting and preserving our textiles is important because it is also an income and a job generator as well.”

AFWN will kick off on December 6 to 8 at Oriental Hotel, Lagos.