Sterling Bank, partner with others to unlock $4.7b creative economy

Sterling Bank was the headline sponsor of the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria x Made By Nigerians Festival 2025 (AFWN x MBN Fest 2025), in a strategic move aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s creative sector valued at $4.7 billion.

The two-day event brought together Africa’s top designers and over 250 emerging fashion and trade entrepreneurs, providing a high-impact platform for Nigerian brands to showcase their creations, connect with local and international audiences and expand their commercial reach.

The AFWN x MBN Fest 2025 took place at a pivotal time when fashion ranked among ithe fastest growing segments of the Nigerian creative economy.

The fair spotlighted emerging designers with three to seven years of industry experience, increasing their visibility and strengthening opportunities for global market entry.

This year’s edition also served as a Made By Nigerians-powered retail fair, enabling entrepreneurs to sell directly to thousands of visitors while building long-term brand recognition.

Chief Marketing Officer, Sterling Bank, Don Okpako said Sterling Bank remains a financial partner of choice for entrepreneurs whose ideas and enterprises are reshaping Nigeria’s growth narrative.

According to him, in addition to its “HEART” focus areas- health, education, agriculture, renewable energy and transportation, the bank has maintained consistent investment in the creative economy, supporting platforms that create jobs, strengthen communities and drive international recognition for Nigerian talent.

He said: “Entrepreneurship has always shaped Nigeria’s progress. At Sterling, our role is to enable the people creating the value that moves this nation forward. Our partnership with the AFWN x MBN Fest 2025 reflects that commitment and we are proud to support the businesses driving creativity, growth and opportunity”.

He emphasized fashion’s increasing role in youth employment and national visibility, noting that the partnership was both timely and strategic.