Polaris Bank has restated its commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as it announces the sponsorship of the 6th Lagos Fashion Souk 2022. The event is organized in partnership with Nigeria’s foremost event management company, EVENTFUL Limited.
The two-day Fashion Souk/Business Fair will take place at the Harbour Point venue on Victoria Island, Lagos, on July 9 and 10, 2022.
Announcing the event, Polaris Bank’s Group Head Strategic Brand Management Nduneche Ezurike stated, “As an SMEs-friendly Bank, it is always our delight to explore opportunities to grow Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises. Polaris Bank’s lead sponsorship of the 6th edition of the Fashion Souk, underscores our acknowledgment of the SMEs as the catalyst for Nigerian’s economic growth.” Continuing, he noted that “this year’s Fashion Souk is unique as it provides an opportunity for Eid-el-Kabir holidaymakers with an unforgettable shopping experience as visitors will behold the creativity of the Nigerian entrepreneurs, especially in the beauty and fashion space.”
Mr. Ezurike added that the ongoing cooperation between Polaris Bank and EVENTFUL Limited over the past two years had inspired many Nigerians to start their own businesses, particularly the younger entrepreneurs working in the important areas of the country’s economy. He praised Eventful Ltd for setting the bar high in promoting the company among Nigerians.
Commenting on the essence of the SOUK, Founder and Chairman of Eventful and Convener of the Fashion Souk, Mrs. Yewande Zaccheaus, said: “Eventful Limited has been deliberate in using the platform of the Fashion Souk to create the much-needed road to market for budding fashion entrepreneurs whilst also expanding the target market of the more established designers. In partnership with Polaris Bank, we are proud to once again contribute to the growth of the nation’s economy.”
At the Fashion Souk, more than 130 SMEs in Nigeria’s fashion sector—including producers, sellers, and dealers—are scheduled to exhibit their originality and product lines.
The Sub-Saharan African fashion market is estimated to be valued $31 billion in December 2021 industry study, with Nigeria holding an increasing proportion of 15%.
As part of its SME focus, Polaris Bank has worked with and supported companies in key industries for the Nigerian economy, such as manufacturing, agriculture, export, and the health and education sectors.
More than N20 billion in credits have been provided by the Bank to these sectors for the purchase of stationary, furniture, classroom supplies, school buses, medical equipment, machineries, distribution, and logistics of medical items, as well as working capital for company expansion.
Polaris Bank is a digitally-enabled Bank focused on providing innovative products and services to its customers.