Lagos Leather Fair Announces 9th Edition with Theme “Beyond the Hide”

The Lagos Leather Fair (LLF), Africa’s leading platform dedicated to the leather value chain, will host its 9th edition from June 27 to 28, 2026, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos, with an exclusive VIP opening scheduled for June 26. This year’s edition, themed “Beyond the Hide,” marks a significant step in the fair’s evolution as it continues to position African leather as a competitive force in the global market.

The LLF has grown from a local exhibition into a continental platform bringing together designers, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders across the leather industry since it was founded in 2017 by Femi Olayebi. With over 25,000 visitors and more than 300 exhibitors recorded to date, the fair has consistently created opportunities for visibility, collaboration, and measurable revenue growth for participating brands.

“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.”

The 2026 edition will be held in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria, which joins as the official host, reinforcing its commitment to supporting African SMEs and the creative manufacturing sector. As part of this collaboration, this edition will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Ecobank Pan African Centre, the event will convene leading leather creatives and industry players for a two-day experience focused on scaling value, strengthening industry structures, and driving sustainable growth across the leather value chain.

Under the theme “BEYOND THE HIDE: Scaling Value. Building Industry. Driving Growth.”  LLF2026 will move beyond conversations about raw materials to explore the full spectrum of the leather industry—from sourcing and production to innovation, compliance, and global export readiness. Through exhibitions, workshops, conversations, and interactive experiences, the fair will provide a space for learning, exchange, and showcasing the depth and potential of African leather craftsmanship. Secure your spot here by registering for the fair!