By Olukayode Idowu
The European Union on Thursday called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to create enabling environment for private sector to thrive in the country.
The Head of European Union Delegation to Nigeria and Economic Community of West African States, Samuela Isopi gave this advice while briefing journalists on the coming Afro-Euro runway in Abuja.
The runway, which is slated for Friday June 16 is organised by EU member states in collaboration with the Abuja Fashion Academy.
Isopi expressed the readiness of the EU to work with the present administration to ensure the success of the private sector, especially in the area of fashion.
Isopi while noting that the EU would be working with Nigerian institutions to build the fashion industry, said: “I hope the new administration will help partner with the private sector to help create an environment where we can really help the sector in general.”
She added that: “Textile is one of those because it really creates a lot of jobs. So this is our first objective.
“My role and that of our member states is to create the platform and then it is up to the Nigeria private sector and of course private companies from Europe.”
Speaking on the coming Afro-Euro runway, Isopi said: “The very first edition of a special event, the afro Euro runaway fashion show will hold on June 16, 2023.
“When I arrived Nigeria a few years ago, I said we should try and see how we can really facilitate dialogue between cultures using fashion.
“Together with our partners, we were able to put together what I consider to be an extraordinary initiative because it brings together so many talents.”
Speaking at the program, a renowned fashion designer, Paolo Sisiano, hailed the seven finalists, urging them to take advantage of the opportunity given to them.
Sisiano said: “I want to appreciate the EU for this because it is such one realistic opportunity for the seven designers that are going into this.
“It sort of propels the next five years of your life and you need to take advantage of it. Nigeria is aware of talents and there are so many things that we bring into fashion in terms of innovation.”
Seven finalists will compete on Friday and four winners would be selected.
