Design Week Lagos (DWL) 2024, a leading platform for design and innovation in Africa, brought together industry leaders, creative minds, and aspiring designers to explore the theme: “The Role of Design in Economic Evolution.” Celebrating African Innovation and Global Collaboration. Held at the Livespot Entertarium in Lagos, DWL celebrates how African design transforms economies and shapes society through creativity and collaboration. Here’s a closer look at the key events and highlights that made the opening days unforgettable.
Design Week Lagos 2024 – A Grand Opening: Innovation Meets Celebration
The opening day of DWL 2024 unfolded in two dynamic parts. The daytime VIP opening, from noon to 3 p.m., welcomed architects, developers, and high-level diplomats, offering them a guided tour of the stunning exhibits. Attendees also enjoyed the relaunch of Essential Designs, a publication celebrating notable works in African design and a keynote speech by Olori Atuwatse III where she in her words, described her deep connection to the ancient Benin and Warri kingdoms, emphasising that design is more than just aesthetics; it profoundly reflects our identity. To me, Benin’s ancient walls symbolise our ancestors’ timeless ingenuity, and this spirit continues to thrive across the continent as craftsmanship is passed down through generations. African design is a living narrative that weaves our past with the present, paving the way for our future.
As night fell, the festival transformed into an opening party, drawing over 200 guests including young design stars, influencers, and enthusiasts. The energy was vibrant, fuelled by live music from Cef Ashanta, light bites, and a lively dance floor. This festive atmosphere set the tone for a week celebrating creativity and connection.
Insightful Discussions and Keynote Presentations
On Thursday, October 24th, the program delved deeper into the economic potential of design. DWL founder Titi Ogufere opened the day with an inspiring speech. The event was further enriched by keynote speaker Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy. She shared insights on policy strategies fostering design-driven growth.
Following the Minister’s keynote, Benedict Radcliffe, renowned for his work with Range Rover, presented his creative journey. Radcliffe’s mastery in automotive design set the stage for further conversations on innovation. Later, Myles Igwebuike, curator of the Nigerian Pavilion at the London Design Biennale, shared his vision for Nigeria’s design narrative on the global stage. Panel discussions addressed collaborations within the built environment, creating pathways for continued growth in Nigerian design.
Design Talks and Panels: Scaling Innovation
On Friday, October 25th, DWL Talks continued with a full schedule. Jacqueline Aki kicked off with a recap of the festival’s highlights, setting the stage for a keynote by Dr. Olusi, Managing Director of Nigeria’s Bank of Industry. Dr. Olusi’s address spotlighted how design can catalyse economic transformation in Nigeria.
Panel discussions explored essential topics like scaling innovation and enhancing mass production. Experts discussed frameworks for bridging architecture, design, and economic growth, drawing connections between creativity and industry. Dulux’s presentation on “Innovation in Design & Architecture” illustrated how cutting-edge design can reshape everyday spaces.
Exhibitions and Workshops: Hands-On Inspiration
The festival’s exhibitions highlighted African ingenuity, with the Made by Design Show and Design & Innovation Exhibition showcasing the finest in Nigerian furniture, lighting, and accessories. Over 100 products from emerging and established designers offered visitors a glimpse into the future of Nigerian and African design.
A standout piece was Tosin Oshinowo’s Àpótí Stool, blending heritage with modern aesthetics. Kanyinsade Ademuson’s Fold Series, crafted from zero-weld steel, and Zoë Chinonso Ene’s IO Stool, inspired by Igbo graphical language, captivated the audience. Dapo Akintunde’s 100% Nigerian car prototype was a festival favourite, symbolising the potential for locally driven innovation.
DWL also featured two notable workshops under the National Design and Innovation Competition (NDIC) banner. Benedict Radcliffe led a hands-on car design workshop at the University of Lagos, in collaboration with Nigerian car designer Dapo Akintunde. The leather furniture-making masterclass by GU Ebeco equipped participants with new skills, supporting DWL’s commitment to building local expertise in manufacturing.
Student Competitions and Youth Empowerment
The DWL 2024 Students’ Competition, sponsored by NIPOST, engaged young designers in reimagining the Nigerian postal service’s workspace as a creative hub. This initiative symbolises DWL’s dedication to nurturing local talent and sparking economic transformation through innovative solutions.
At the festival’s heart is the National Design and Innovation Competition (NDIC), which aims to train 1 million youths in diverse design fields. NDIC’s youth-focused initiatives, including off-site workshops and mentoring, underscore DWL’s focus on reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imports by developing local production capabilities.
What to Look Forward to on Days 3 and 4
As DWL 2024 unfolds, attendees can anticipate more design talks, engaging exhibitions, and unique workshops. Day 3 promises further insights into the intersection of design and economic growth, while Day 4 features the highly anticipated Students’ Competition awards. Join us as DWL continues to celebrate the power of design to reshape Nigeria’s future.
Design Week Lagos 2024 is well underway, making a strong case for the role of design in Africa’s economic evolution. Stay tuned for more inspiring moments and unforgettable experiences as we celebrate innovation across the continent.
About Titi Ogufere. Founder, Design Week Lagos.
Titi Ogufere is a transformative figure in contemporary African design, known for her efforts to drive economic and societal change through creative innovation. As CEO of Essential Media Group, she has expanded Africa’s design landscape, producing Essential Interiors Magazine and organising events like the Design Week Lagos (DWL), which she founded to establish Lagos as a global design hub. Her work includes publishing 27 influential books on African design, leading the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria, and spearheading the African Council of Interior Architects/Designers. Ogufere also made history as the first African president of the International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers (IFI), where she focused on education, licensing, and policy advancements. Through her initiatives, including the Made by Design Netflix series and support programs for young designers, Ogufere champions African creativity on the international stage.
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Day 1
Day 2
