GTCO launches directory for African textile makers, artisans

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO)

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) on Thursday unveiled an online directory for textile producers, indigenous artisans and fashion manufacturers.

The initiative was announced at a media briefing in Lagos ahead of the ninth GTCO Fashion Weekend, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the GTCentre, Plot 1, Water Corporation Drive, Oniru.

Speaking at the briefing, GTCO’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, Oyinade Adegite, said the directory formed part of the GTCO Fashion Collective, a platform intended to keep fashion professionals connected beyond the company’s annual two-day event.

According to her, the collective will accommodate designers, models, stylists, photographers, editors, buyers, content creators and other industry professionals.

The platform includes separate directories for textile makers and manufacturers, with information on their locations, specialities, and contact details.

The textile section features fabric suppliers, printmakers and producers, including artisans involved in Aso-oke weaving, Adire dyeing and other indigenous textile-making processes.

Its manufacturing catalogue focuses on Nigerian businesses working across different areas of fashion production.

Ms Adegite said the directory was created to give greater visibility to producers whose contributions often received less attention than those of designers and fashion brands.

“These makers are the foundation on which African fashion stands, and they deserve a permanent, searchable home in our ecosystem,” she said.

Fashion manufacturers interested in being listed can submit their business information for consideration.

GTCO, however, said the directory was provided only for discovery and listing purposes. It said it neither endorsed nor guaranteed the manufacturers listed and advised users to conduct their own checks before entering into business agreements.

The platform also offers guidance on questions designers may need to ask prospective manufacturers, including minimum order quantities, production timelines, available materials, sampling procedures, pricing and payment terms.

Meanwhile, the ninth GTCO Fashion Weekend will run from Saturday through Sunday.

The event, themed “Fashion Is Timeless,” will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both days, with free public admission.

Organisers said the programme would feature runway presentations, masterclasses, retail outlets, a craft and fabric market, industry conversations and a streetwear hub.

Designers scheduled to present collections on Saturday include Tongoro, FIA Factory, Ibrahim Fernandez, Washington Roberts, Maison Sara Chraibi and Imane Ayissi.

Sunday’s runway programme will feature Sukeina, House of Marvee, Selam Fessahaye, Kim Shui, Ohlanna by Zikora and LaQuan Smith.

Fashion and beauty professionals billed to lead masterclasses include Sherlina Nym, Rachel Ojuromi and Renee Morris, founder of natural hair brand Uncle Funky’s Daughter. A skincare session by Buttah Skin is also scheduled.

According to GTCO, about 140 fashion retailers will participate over the weekend.

The addition of a craft and fabric market will give textile makers and artisans a physical space to exhibit their products alongside the runway shows and retail activities.

The Fashion Collective will remain accessible online after the event, providing industry listings, professional profiles and information about subsequent programmes.