Ecobank Nigeria is partnering with Ogun State First Lady’s office to organise the maiden edition of the Adire Market Week, an initiative of Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State Governor and Founder of Ajose Foundation. The fair holds between April 7 and April 9, 2022, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, the state capital. Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal hinged the bank’s support on its strategic decision to further support and empower the youths, women, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other business communities within Ogun State. Adding that it was one of the several initiatives by the Bank to boost tourism, culture and the creative industry using Adire is a key driver.
According to Lawal, “We are currently working with the Ogun state government to promote the Adire industry which is also primarily women-driven. We see the Adire industry as a platform to celebrate and further integrate with culture, arts and history of Abeokuta, Ogun State and the nation at large. We will also explore the connection it has with the youths, women, SMEs and other business communities around us.” He was optimistic that the week will establish the platform for financial inclusion for women-owned businesses, noting that the Bank will use the avenue to promote its women-centred proposition, Ellevate to help boost the businesses. “It is also an opportunity for us to promote international trade through our robust payment and collection platforms whilst leveraging our AfCFTA agreement to support exports for the local fashion industry.”
Ecobank Nigeria’s management had during its visit to Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun some years ago, pledged to partner the state government on the policy thrust and developmental strides of the Abiodun-led administration, as encapsulated in ISEYA, which represents infrastructure, social welfare and health, education, youth empowerment and agriculture. The bank recently supported the state’s primary healthcare delivery. The bank has also entered into a partnership agreement with the state government to provide mortgage financing to interested civil servants who are allottees of the state’s housing scheme. The Adire Market Week will showcase and promote authentic Adire products from about 100 exhibitors as well as the works of traders, fashion designers, models and other players in the Adire industry. With at least 5,000 local and international participants expected at this year’s edition, the fair would give stakeholders in the industry the opportunity to showcase their products to the global market.
