Nigeria’s Creative Hub Launches to Transform Fashion Industry and Boost Economic Growth
A groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s creative sector has emerged with the launch of the Ananse Center for Design in Lagos, positioning itself as Africa’s first fully integrated creative hub.
The Nigerian creative industry, valued at $6.4 billion in 2021, is poised for significant growth, with the fashion subsector showing particular promise. As part of Africa’s $31 billion fashion and textile industry, Nigeria contributes approximately 15 percent and aims to increase revenue by over $2 billion by 2025.
The newly launched 1,200-square-meter facility in Lekki represents a comprehensive solution to long-standing industry challenges. Samuel Mensah, Founder and CEO of Ananse Center for Design, unveiled the state-of-the-art hub during a high-profile event attended by key stakeholders, including Dr. Nike Okundaye of Nike Art Gallery, who serves as the center’s patron.
The facility features an impressive array of resources, including mentorship spaces, content studios, photography labs, and specialized workshops for leatherwork, clothing, footwear, and accessories production. A private showroom and co-working space complement the center’s e-commerce platform, which connects local designers to global markets.
Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, endorsed the initiative through a five-year memorandum of understanding to expand the model nationwide. “By investing in skills, facilities and global visibility for our designers, we are creating jobs, supporting women and youth, while ensuring Nigerian creativity is recognized on the world stage,” she stated.
The center has garnered strong support from strategic partners, including the African Union, Mastercard Foundation, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), CLO, and Ecobank. Mastercard Foundation’s Country Director, Rosy Fynn, emphasized the initiative’s role in creating sustainable livelihoods for young people, particularly women.
Already showing impressive results, the center has empowered over 3,500 creatives in its first year of operations. It offers 22 courses across five modules, covering business skills, development, e-commerce, marketing, and product development, both in-person and virtually.
Training and Curriculum Manager Temi Owoduni called for increased support for emerging creative entrepreneurs, highlighting the center’s goal of facilitating 50,000 new jobs. The launch event concluded with a fashion show featuring diverse designs from the center’s creators.
With its comprehensive approach to addressing industry challenges and strong institutional backing, the Ananse Center for Design represents a significant step toward unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s creative economy while providing opportunities for the next generation of African designers and artists.
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