Africa’s leading leather industry platform, Lagos Leather Fair (LLF), is set to return for its highly anticipated 9th edition. Taking place from June 26 to 28, 2026, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos. Recognized as a key driver of growth in the African leather industry, LLF2026 will once again bring together designers, manufacturers, investors, and global stakeholders shaping the future of leather in Africa.
Since its launch in 2017, LLF has grown from a local showcase into a continental hub for leather innovation, trade, and collaboration. With over 25,000 attendees, 300+ exhibitors, and reported revenue growth of 50–200% for participating brands, the fair continues to play a vital role in strengthening Africa’s leather value chain and promoting Nigerian craftsmanship on the global stage.
Ecobank Nigeria Partners as Official Host for LLF2026
In a major boost for Africa’s creative and manufacturing sectors, Ecobank Nigeria has joined LLF as the Official Partner and Host for the 2026 edition. This partnership highlights Ecobank’s commitment to empowering African SMEs. As well as supporting the growth of the leather and creative industries. Hosting the event at the state-of-the-art Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) provides a world-class venue for showcasing Africa’s finest leather talent and fostering international business connections.
Speaking on the evolution of the platform, Founder of Lagos Leather Fair and Creative Director of FemiHandbags, Femi Olayebi, shared:
“LLF was born out of both frustration and possibility—frustration with the structural gaps holding the industry back, and a firm belief in the immense, untapped potential of the African leather ecosystem. For nearly a decade, we have worked to change the narrative. LLF2026 is a bold declaration that we are moving beyond raw potential into structured growth. It is a space where artistry meets strategy, where creativity is sharpened by business acumen. It is also where we provide our designers with the tools to compete and thrive globally.”
LLF2026 Theme: Beyond the Hide
The 2026 theme, “Beyond the Hide: Scaling Value. Building Industry. Driving Growth.”, reflects a strategic shift toward positioning leather as a full-scale, multi-billion-dollar value chain. From sourcing and compliance to manufacturing, innovation, and export readiness, LLF2026 will focus on unlocking sustainable economic opportunities across every stage of production.
What to Expect at Lagos Leather Fair 2026
LLF2026 will deliver a dynamic, multi-dimensional experience designed for creatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and the public:
- Exhibition: A curated showcase of leather brands from Nigeria and across Africa, featuring footwear, handbags, apparel, furniture, accessories, and raw materials.
- Conversations: Insightful panel sessions with industry leaders on collaboration, policy, export regulations, and scaling African leather globally.
- Workshops: Hands-on sessions equipping designers with practical skills in sustainability, innovation, and emerging technologies.
- LLF Signature Piece Challenge: A platform for designers to present standout creations, with top finalists exhibiting in a dedicated gallery.
- Runway Shows: Showcasing bold, cutting-edge leather collections from emerging and established designers.
- The Maker’s Bench: An interactive experience where attendees can create their own leather pieces under expert guidance.
- The LLF Atelier: In partnership with Ananse Centre for Design, this live activation offers a behind-the-scenes look at leather production, from raw material to finished product.
- Awards: Celebrating excellence and innovation within the African leather industry.
Event Details
Event: Lagos Leather Fair (LLF2026)
Date: June 26 – 28, 2026
Venue: Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos
Register Now: Secure your spot by registering to attend Lagos Leather Fair 2026.
About Lagos Leather Fair
Founded in 2017 by Femi Olayebi, Lagos Leather Fair was created as Nigeria’s first dedicated platform for the leather industry. Built to address structural gaps and unlock the sector’s potential, LLF has evolved into a leading ecosystem. It connects designers, manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers, and investors.
By fostering collaboration, increasing visibility, and strengthening value chain linkages, Lagos Leather Fair continues to position Nigeria—and Africa—as a competitive force in the global leather market.
Media Contact
LLF Press Office (YD Company)
Email: yd@yettyd.com
