Lagos: Ms Ogufere, Founder of the Design Week Lagos exhibition, asserts that Nigeria’s creative and manufacturing industries are poised to drive investment and transform the nation’s economic landscape. She made these remarks at the Design Week Lagos Exhibition, themed ‘Building a Made in Nigeria Brand’, held in Lagos. The event showcases the extensive talent pool in furniture design, product design, toy design, and doll-making, illustrating the untapped potential of local creative expertise.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ms Ogufere highlighted the possibilities within the Nigerian industry, particularly in manufacturing and the creative sector. “Our country is brimming with creative talents, and through this exhibition, we aim to reveal the innovative work that has been happening behind the scenes, work that often goes unnoticed,” she stated. Drawing parallels with renowned Italian brands built on local ingenuity, Ogufere emphasized the importance of designing and manufacturing for the local market. She noted the country’s over-reliance on imports and urged support for local creativity and innovation.
She called on both government and financial institutions to invest in and nurture this thriving sector. The exhibition features 58 designers and 25 manufacturer-designer collaborations, showcasing how local partnerships can lead to breakthrough products. These collaborations not only highlight unique designs but also underscore the economic potential of a robust creative ecosystem. Ogufere pointed out that the global furniture industry alone is worth over 700 billion dollars, suggesting the significant impact local manufacturing and design could have on Nigeria’s economy.
Beyond showcasing finished products, the event emphasizes the importance of using locally sourced materials and reducing reliance on imported components. This approach, Ogufere explained, enhances product quality and boosts the nation’s export potential by meeting international standards. The exhibition serves as a call to action for stakeholders to support local content. “Design is what builds economies. We’re inviting government agencies and financial institutions to recognize the gap and invest in this vibrant sector. When we support local manufacturers and designers, we are laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and job creation,” she said.
Additionally, Mr. Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director / Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, stressed that the bank’s partnership with the exhibition is a testament to its commitment to driving innovation, collaboration, and capacity building, which are the backbone of the nation’s economy. “Ecobank is the solution for African banking, and we are committed to giving our customers the platform to network, collaborate and partner to promote innovation and creativity. We are proud to be part of the process to spotlight homegrown innovations and sustainable practices across various sectors,” he stated.
