Ebuka Ebuziem, Founder & Creative Director, garners praise from Caribbean leaders as the brand positions for international partnerships
Nigerian fashion label Adire Teems has made a strong case for African fashion’s place on the global stage, following a successful showing at the African‑Caribbean Trade Forum in St. George’s, Grenada.
The Lagos-based brand, led by founder and creative director Ebuka Ebuziem, earned recognition from Caribbean leaders during the three-day forum, which brought together heads of state, business executives, and cultural influencers from across Africa and the Caribbean.
At a luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister of Grenada, Ebuziem connected with several Caribbean heads of state as an African fashion expert. The Prime Minister praised Adire Teems’ craftsmanship and encouraged other leaders in attendance to explore opportunities with the brand.
“It was an honour to stand beside the Prime Minister and hear him commend the artistry and authenticity of our work,” Ebuziem said.
“His encouragement opened doors across the Caribbean and strengthened our mission to share rich African heritage through fashion.”
The event’s guest list included prominent Nigerian figures such as Aig Imoukhuede of Access Bank, Tunbi Folawiyo of Enyo, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside Afrobeats artists D’banj and Simi. Also present was Ndiamé Diop, the World Bank Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa.
For Adire Teems, the forum was both a showcase and a business opportunity. The brand recorded strong on‑site sales and generated significant interest from retailers, cultural organisations, and policymakers.
Conversations were initiated on potential retail partnerships, cultural exchange programs, and long-term collaborations that could see African designs enter Caribbean markets.
Adire, a traditional Yoruba indigo-dye fabric, is central to the brand’s identity. Ebuziem has reworked the heritage textile into contemporary designs aimed at both African and international buyers. His influences draw from across the continent and diaspora, including Ivory Coast, Ghana, Brazil, and the UAE.
In addition to running Adire Teems, Ebuziem is the Managing Director of EDEO Textile Ltd, a company with ambitions to become the largest textile manufacturer in Africa. This dual role gives him a platform to not only design but also scale production for export.
“The level of interest and engagement exceeded our expectations,” he said. “We’re laying the groundwork for ventures that bridge continents through African culture and fashion.”
For the Caribbean, where African heritage is deeply rooted in its cultural identity, the reception of Adire Teems signals an appetite for deeper creative and economic ties.
For Nigeria, it is another example of the creative sector’s growing influence in shaping international partnerships.
