The United States is seeking to strengthen trade relations with Nigeria by creating more opportunities for Nigerian fashion designers to access American buyers and retailers.
The US Consulate General in Lagos disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, November 4, following a lunch hosted by Consul General Brandon Hudspeth in honour of Omoyemi Akerele, founder of Lagos Fashion Week, during the 2026 edition of the event.
Hudspeth praised Akerele for developing Lagos Fashion Week into one of Africa’s leading fashion platforms and helping Nigerian designers connect with international markets. He described the event as an opportunity to celebrate Nigerian creative talents and highlight how trade partnerships could benefit both countries.
According to the consulate, the American market provides Nigerian designers with opportunities to grow their businesses, while US retailers could use Nigeria as an entry point into the wider African market. The consulate cited figures from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, which estimated that American consumers spent about $560 billion on clothing and footwear in 2025.
The event brought together designers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders in the creative industry. American-born actress and producer Osas Ighodaro was among the guests. Participants also experienced a fashion-themed game developed by Lagos-based Maliyo Games.
Established in 2011, Lagos Fashion Week has grown into an international platform for African designers. Its 2025 edition featured more than 60 designers and attracted approximately 15,000 guests. International figures and brands have also participated in the event.
American singer Ciara appeared on its runway in 2025, while Studio 189, a fashion label co-founded by American actress Rosario Dawson, has presented collections in Lagos. New York-based Nigerian designer Tia Adeola has also showcased her work at the event. The latest engagement follows earlier efforts to connect African fashion businesses with the American market.
In October 2024, Lagos Fashion Week, in partnership with the US government’s Prosper Africa initiative and Style House Files, organised a discussion titled Bridging Markets, which focused on improving African designers’ access to American buyers and retailers. The fashion platform has also supported designers in exploring the US market through trade events such as Coterie and NYNOW in New York, as well as Liberty Fairs in Miami.
Other platforms connecting African fashion brands with American consumers include luxury retailer Moda Operandi and The Folklore, founded by American entrepreneur Amira Rasool. The Folklore also partners with US retailer Nordstrom. The US Mission said it would continue supporting commercial partnerships across Nigeria’s fashion, film, music, gaming and other creative industries to expand trade between both countries.
