The Lagos State Government has described the opening of EbonyLife Place in London as a major milestone in promoting Nigerian creativity globally and expanding opportunities within the country’s creative economy.
The grand opening, held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 208 Wandsworth Road, London, was attended by government officials, creative industry stakeholders, members of the Nigerian diaspora and international partners.
Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, congratulated EbonyLife Media founder, Mo Abudu, and her team on the achievement.
Benson-Awoyinka described Abudu as a global ambassador of Lagos’ creative industry, commending EbonyLife for showcasing African stories with authenticity, excellence and pride. She said the new facility would provide a platform for Nigerian film, music, fashion, art and food in one of the world’s leading cities.
The commissioner also praised the collaboration between EbonyLife Media and the United Kingdom’s Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, describing it as evidence of the potential of strategic partnerships to expand the creative economy and attract investment.
She said the Sanwo-Olu administration was investing in the creative sector through infrastructure development, talent support and platforms designed to promote tourism, generate jobs and drive economic growth.
According to her, EbonyLife Place London aligns with Lagos State’s vision of becoming a global destination where culture and heritage are preserved while creative talent is developed and promoted.
Benson-Awoyinka thanked the UK Government for supporting the initiative and expressed hope that the facility would serve as a cultural bridge between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, encouraging collaboration, attracting visitors to Lagos and creating opportunities for creatives in both countries.
