It was an exciting time for 20 emerging and mid-career Nigerian fashion designers, who were treated to a grand reception on Tuesday by the U.S. Consulate General, in celebration of their successful participation in the U.S. State Department’s International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). 

Through the virtual IVLP project titled, “Promoting Economic Growth and Trade in the Fashion Industry,” the participants had the unique opportunity to connect with their U.S. counterparts and enriched their knowledge of entrepreneurship, business development, and innovation in the U.S. fashion industry.  

Speaking at the event, U.S. Consul General Claire Pierangelo explained that the U.S. Mission created this IVLP program focused on the fashion industry to strengthen economic and commercial ties between the United States and Nigeria through sustained engagement with creative industries that are centered in Lagos.

“In the last few years, Nigeria and the United States have witnessed growing cultural ties,” Pierangelo said. “This fashion IVLP project is a fantastic example of our strategic economic outreach to Nigeria’s creative industries to further strengthen economic ties through culture and fashion.”   

The reception hosted by U.S. Chargé d’affaires Kathleen FitzGibbon and Consul General Pierangelo was attended by leading Nigerian fashion designers, creative industry leaders, and investors amongst other personalities.