The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy has announced a partnership with The Fashion Academy, Abuja, to launch a designer training programme under the Creative Leap Acceleration Program (CLAP).
The initiative, unveiled on Monday, is aimed at empowering emerging designers, tailors, and creative entrepreneurs with technical and business skills to thrive in Nigeria’s expanding fashion industry.
According to the ministry, the programme will provide training in two major areas: Pattern Making & Professional Sewing Techniques, and Fashion Business & Branding. Participants will receive hands-on training, mentorship, and business development support designed to help them grow their enterprises and contribute to Nigeria’s creative economy.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, described the initiative as a significant step toward building a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and position Nigeria as a leader in fashion across Africa.
“Our creative industry holds immense potential, and this collaboration with The Fashion Academy Abuja is a bold step towards building a skilled workforce and positioning Nigeria as a leader in fashion innovation across Africa,” Musawa said.
Director of The Fashion Academy, Nina Kwande, also commended the initiative, stating that it would nurture talent, promote entrepreneurship, and offer industry-ready training that delivers real impact.
“We are excited to work with the Ministry to nurture talent, foster entrepreneurship, and provide access to industry-ready training that truly makes a difference,” Kwande noted.
Applications for the programme open on August 4, 2025, and close on August 11, 2025. Interested creatives can apply via https://clap.gov.ng, where eligibility criteria, application forms, and required documentation are available.

