By Ogenyi Ogenyi
The fifth edition of Uyo Fashion Week has reinforced its growing reputation as a major fashion and creative platform in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
Held under the theme “The Fusion,” the 2026 edition brought together designers from the 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State to showcase collections focused on culture, creativity, and modern fashion.The event was organised by fashion entrepreneur Lady Mae Edmonds, who said the platform was created to support emerging and established talents in the fashion industry.
According to Edmonds, more than 150 designers have presented over 1,000 designs across the event’s previous editions, helping to provide exposure for designers, models, stylists, and photographers.This year’s edition featured the expanded Arise31 Runway Showcase, which gave designers from all 31 councils in the state an opportunity to participate.
Celebrities including Ini Edo, Nse Ikpe Etim, Denrele Edun, and Nancy Isime attended the event. One of the designers highlighted at the show was GIM’S Exclusive, founded by designer Joel Namnso Thomas.
The brand gained international exposure after participating in New York Fashion Week and Brooklyn Fashion Week. Thomas said the opportunities helped expand the brand’s global visibility and strengthened its commitment to promoting African fashion internationally.
