By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja, Nigeria Industry leaders, government representatives and creative entrepreneurs have projected that Africa’s fashion and creative industry is on track to generate over $30 million before 2030, reaffirming its position as one of the continent’s fastest-growing economic sectors.
The declaration was made on Friday at the 2025 Africa Fashion and Arts Conference and Awards (AFAA) in Abuja, an event that brought together designers, artists, models, investors, policymakers and cultural stakeholders from across the continent.
Speaking at the conference, Mr. Kingsley Amako, Founder and Convener of AFAA, said the steady rise of Africa’s creative sector underscores its potential to rival traditional industries. He explained that despite logistical challenges in hosting the 5th edition, the event reflects a resilient ecosystem that continues to attract local and international attention.
Fashion is one sector used by over 8 billion people on earth. The first thing a child wears is clothes. No other industry has that universal relevance,” he said.
We are in the right sector, with the right people, and this platform remains a pipeline for grooming talent and building future global leaders in creativity.”
He noted that the conference, exhibition and awards hosted simultaneously were designed to provide a one-stop environment for learning, networking and commercial engagement. Amako added that AFAA engages stakeholders from across Africa and has secured endorsements from relevant cultural and development agencies.
Industry Experts Highlight Growth, Challenges and Opportunities
Delivering his keynote session, Mr. Sola Oyebade, CEO of Fashion Finest Africa and Mahogany International, emphasized that Africa’s youthful population is its greatest creative asset.
Citing a 2023 report by the African Development Bank, Oyebade noted that the African fashion industry is currently valued at over $31 billion, with projections to exceed $50 billion by 2030.
Fashion will soon generate more revenue than music and film combined,” he said.
We are experiencing a new creative renaissance where African designs, culture and storytelling influence global brands. From stylists to photographers, models to tailors, every part of the ecosystem matters
He stressed the importance of sustainability, structure and collaboration, explaining that the rise of digital platforms now allows African creatives to sell globally without leaving their homes.
Government Reaffirms Support for Creative Sector Growth
Representing the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), Alhaji, commended the organisers for sustaining an event that strengthens value addition, SME growth and non-oil economic expansion.
He noted that the creative industries are key to the Federal Government’s agenda on local production, Made-in-Nigeria promotion, and job-creation.
“The African fashion and creative industry is a pillar of cultural diplomacy and a catalyst for economic transformation,” he said.
“The Ministry remains committed to supporting policies and investments that deepen market access and empower youth and entrepreneurs.”
Tourism Sector Links Fashion to Cultural and Economic Growth
Representing the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Mrs. Maryam Inuwa highlighted the deep relationship between tourism and fashion, describing fashion as a “driver of youth empowerment and cultural promotion”.
She praised exhibitors and awardees for sustaining Africa’s cultural identity through innovation and creativity.
Digital Transformation Reshaping African Art
In his keynote, Dr. Uche Nwadozie, representing the DG of the National Gallery of Art, explored the intersection of African tradition and digital technology.
He stated that technologies such as AI, augmented reality, blockchain, digital museums and virtual marketplaces are transforming how art is created, curated and consumed.
“Technology is not replacing African art it is expanding its possibilities,” he said.
“From Nsibidi to Uli, our art has always evolved. Today, digital tools continue that tradition, giving African creatives global visibility.”
Creative Industry: A Tool for Job Creation and Global Influence
The Deputy Director and Head of Foreign Affairs Unit at Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Ukaa, representing DG Baba Ndace, emphasized that the creative industry remains a strategic tool for projecting Africa’s image globally.
“Whether you are a makeup artist, a lighting designer or an illustrator, every role in the creative value chain contributes to national development,” he said.
“This industry provides countless jobs and fuels Nigeria’s soft-power diplomacy.”
AFAA Workshops Strengthen Capacity for Young Creatives
The conference also featured international facilitators, including:
Tracy-Lee Rosling (South Africa) Creative Styling Workshop
Graduates of St. Louis (Cape Town) Visual Arts Workshop
Participants were trained on business models, digital innovation, intellectual property monetization and career advancement in fashion an
AFAA Continues to Shape Africa’s Creative Future
As the ceremony prepared to transition into the evening awards at the Congress Hall, stakeholders reiterated the need for continued collaboration, innovation and investment in the creative ecosystem.
The 2025 AFAA Conference closed with a shared commitment:
to build a timeless, united and globally competitive African creative future powered by talent, technology and cultural identity.
