Lagos Leather Fair Returns for 9th Edition
Africa's premier leather platform, the Lagos Leather Fair (LLF), has announced its 9th edition, scheduled for June 27-28, 2026, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos. An exclusive VIP opening will take place on June 26, 2026.
Theme: 'Beyond the Hide'
The theme for LLF2026 is 'Beyond the Hide: Scaling Value. Building Industry. Driving Growth.' This theme signals a strategic shift from viewing leather as a raw material to treating it as a comprehensive, multi-billion-dollar value chain. The 2026 edition will focus on transforming every stage of production—from sourcing and compliance to manufacturing and global export readiness—into a driver of sustainable economic prosperity.
Ecobank Joins as Official Partner
Lagos Leather Fair is proud to announce Ecobank Nigeria as Official Partner and Host for LLF2026. This strategic partnership underscores Ecobank's commitment to supporting African SMEs and the creative manufacturing sector. The 9th edition will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), providing a world-class backdrop for the convergence of Africa's finest leather artisans and global industry stakeholders.
Founder's Vision
Femi Olayebi, Founder of Lagos Leather Fair and Creative Director of FemiHandbags, stated: '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, and where we provide our designers with the tools to not just survive, but to compete and thrive on a global scale.'
What to Expect at LLF2026
The 9th edition promises an immersive experience for designers, investors, and the general public. Highlights include:
- Exhibition: A curated selection of leather creatives from across the continent, showcasing footwear, handbags, small leather goods, furniture, apparel, raw materials, and accessories.
- Conversations: Interactive sessions with industry leaders focusing on collaboration, strategic partnerships, and regulations governing the exportation of exotic skins.
- Workshops: Interactive workshops designed to equip leather designers with tools for sustainable growth and leveraging emerging technologies.
- LLF Signature Piece Challenge: Applicants create two extraordinary leather pieces representing their highest craftsmanship. The top 6 participants display their pieces in a Signature Pieces Gallery during LLF2026.
- Runway Shows: Cutting-edge collections from established and emerging designers, celebrating the versatility of leather.
- The Maker's Bench: An interactive space where pre-registered visitors create simple leather pieces under expert supervision.
- The LLF Atelier: In partnership with Ananse Centre for Design, this live mini manufacturing hub offers a behind-the-scenes experience of craftsmanship and technical processes.
- Awards: Honouring outstanding contributions within the African leather industry, celebrating brands, artisans, and visionaries.
Event Details
Event: Lagos Leather Fair LLF2026
Date: June 27-28, 2026
Venue: Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.
Registration
Secure your spot by registering at thelagosleatherfair.com/registration.
About Lagos Leather Fair
Launched in 2017, Lagos Leather Fair is Nigeria's first dedicated platform focused exclusively on the leather industry. Founded by Femi Olayebi, a premium leather goods designer based in Ibadan, LLF was created to address structural gaps, misconceptions, fragmented supply chains, and the absence of a unifying platform. Since its inception, LLF has evolved from a local exhibition into a continental movement, with over 25,000 visitors, 300+ exhibitors, and 50–200% revenue growth for participating brands.
