By Uko Etim 

UYO—The 5th edition of Uyo Fashion Week has been described as a masterclass in creativity and enterprise, with the organisers saying the event cemented Akwa Ibom’s growing status as a hub for fashion and cultural tourism.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Convener of Uyo Fashion Week, Lady Mae Edmunds on Sunday in Uyo.

The multi-day showcase, held at the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre under the theme “The Fusion,” drew designers, models, entrepreneurs, celebrities, and industry leaders from across Nigeria and beyond. 

Edmunds said this year’s edition was a deliberate convergence of culture, creativity, and commercial opportunity. 

“This year’s edition was a powerful convergence of culture, creativity and commercialization,” she said, adding that the platform continues to earn recognition as one of Nigeria’s most important emerging fashion events.

She said the event featured collections that merged African heritage with contemporary design, with bold silhouettes, intricate craftsmanship, and vibrant textiles on display, adding that both emerging and established brands used the stage to present futuristic interpretations of indigenous fashion. 

According to her, collections from Gims Exclusive, Stylemhan Fashion, and other rising creatives from across Akwa Ibom’s local government areas stood out for their storytelling and commercial appeal.

The Convener said, a key highlight was the Arise 31 Runway Show, which drew strong applause for its avant-garde pieces, contemporary African couture, and bold runway concepts.

Edmunds added that beyond the runway, Uyo Fashion Week hosted masterclasses and panel sessions led by voices in fashion, branding, media, and business, noting that the sessions covered fashion business management, digital storytelling, sustainability, and strategies for entering global markets. 

She said the platform is designed to do more than entertain. 

“Uyo Fashion Week once again proved that it is more than a fashion event, it is a movement dedicated to elevating African creativity, driving youth empowerment and shaping the future of fashion on the continent,” Edmunds said.

The Convener further stated that with each edition, the event is expanding its influence by giving emerging talents visibility, mentorship, and access to opportunities on the global stage.