Announced by Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, on Sunday October 25 via X.
Why Gele?
According to Aregbe, it started after “a passionate son of Lagos wrote to us about the gele. He asked that it be honoured, protected, and given its rightful place on the Lagos calendar. We listened. We affirmed. And today, we deliver.”
He described the gele as more than fashion:
“The gele is not just a headtie. It is a crown. It is Yoruba. It is ours.” Born of our mothers, perfected by our artisans, worn across the world, and recognised everywhere as a symbol of who we are.”
What to expect:
The festival will celebrate and spotlight:
• Gele stylists / tiers
• Fabric makers and textile dealers
• Photographers
• Generations of women who preserved the tradition
It’s also a push for cultural tourism and the creative economy – showcasing craftsmanship, styling, and fashion business.
Aregbe asked Lagosians to come wearing their gele, and invited residents, brands and partners to contribute ideas and support.
If you’re in Lagos that weekend, it’s expected to be a full owambe vibe meets cultural exhibition.
