Innovation takes center stage at EPAC Lagos Exhibition

..As young creatives, government, industry leaders champion creativity

The Design and Innovation Exhibition 2025 on Tuesday opened with widespread excitement, attracting a vibrant mix of young innovators, industry leaders, and stakeholders to the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos.

Running from February 25 to March 2, the exhibition highlighted groundbreaking ideas and cutting-edge solutions across Nigeria’s manufacturing and creative sectors. Attendees are witnessing firsthand the ingenuity driving the future of design, technology, and industrial advancement in the country.

With a dynamic lineup of showcases, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the event is already proving to be a hub for collaboration and inspiration.

Founder of Design Week Lagos, Titi Ogupere, has emphasized the importance of innovation and design in shaping Nigeria’s manufacturing and creative industries. 

Through this year’s exhibition, themed “Building a Made in Nigeria Brand,” the event seeks to highlight the country’s pool of creative talent—spanning furniture, product, and toy design—while advocating for increased local production.

Ogupere noted that the success of major global brands, like those from Italy, stemmed from strong collaborations between designers and manufacturers who built products tailored to their societies.

She stressed that Nigeria must adopt a similar approach, designing and manufacturing solutions that work for its market rather than relying on imported products that may not be suited to local needs.

The exhibition features 58 designers and 25 manufacturer-designer collaborations, including partnerships with AFP by Julius Berger, Woodstyles, and IO Furniture. 

Additionally, the event showcases the intersection of art and design, with Mamanike Opeke Art Gallery curating contributions from eight artists exploring new creative possibilities.

Despite challenges in sourcing materials locally, Ogupere remains optimistic, praising designers who have persevered despite a tough manufacturing landscape. 

She also underscored the economic potential of the industry, pointing out that the global furniture market alone is worth over $700 billion. 

Expanding local production and exports could significantly boost Nigeria’s economy, provided there is increased government and financial sector support.

Addressing concerns over consumer trust in locally made goods, Ogupere urged Nigerians to support homegrown brands, just as countries like China and the U.S. have done. 

She reassured attendees that the exhibition is a curated showcase of tried and tested products that meet high standards, proving that Nigerian designers are capable of competing globally.

“The message is clear: Nigeria’s design industry is thriving, and with the right investments and mindset shifts, it can become a major player in the global market.”

Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, highlighted the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s creative talent to drive industrial growth. “By leveraging our country’s rich creative resources, we can modernize products, promote locally-made furniture, and build stronger economic connections,” she said, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives.

Also speaking at the event, Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, underscored the bank’s dedication to empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Represented by Omoboye Odu, Head of SME, Partnerships, and Collaboration, Lawal noted, “The success of SMEs is key to transforming Nigeria’s economy, and we recognize the importance of collaborating with the right partners. Titi Ogufere and Design Week Lagos are the perfect fit for us to help elevate Nigerian creatives and provide a platform to scale their businesses.”