FASHION buffs and people in general will agree with me that one item that most elegant women all over the globe can’t do without is the necklace. When you want to know how passionate a lady is about her dress sense check what she wears to compliment her clothes. A beautiful necklace will help any lady to get a pass mark in a situation like this.
Chokers always fit pretty around the neck. Gone are the days when necklaces are best used at parties and for special Occasions-Its can be rock at any time (for both formal and informal events), it’s all depend on the size and designs. For example- chokers and chunky necklaces are so unique they might look out of place during ordinary moments. Thus it is mostly common to see chokers during weddings, naming ceremonies, birthdays and other social events.
So, why don’t you compliment your good look with stylish neck-piece?
The intersection of threads coming together to create a masterpiece is always captivating. The Asoke fabric from western Nigeria is one of those exquisite pieces that leaves one in awe. Aso Oke, meaning “top cloth” in Yoruba, is more than just fabric—it’s a fusion of culture and style. Originating centuries ago in southwestern Nigeria, Aso Oke was traditionally handwoven by skilled artisans, its vibrant patterns symbolising status, identity, and occasion. Reserved for monumental events like weddings, coronations, and festivals, it adorned kings, queens, and celebrants alike.
Today, Aso Oke has evolved beyond its ceremonial roots, finding new life in contemporary fashion. From runway-ready pieces to streetwear staples, designers are reimagining its rich textures and bold patterns to speak to a global audience. Beyoncé famously incorporated Aso Oke in her Black Is King visual album, highlighting its cultural significance and modern versatility. Whether crafted into tailored suits, skirts, or stylish accessories, Aso Oke effortlessly bridges heritage and innovation, proving that tradition and modernity can co-exist beautifully. And it’s not just about style—it’s about telling a story that spans centuries.
One of this fabric’s beauty is its durability. This isn’t a material that fades into history; it’s built to last. Handwoven from premium cotton or silk and often laced with metallic threads, every piece is a masterpiece.
But Aso Oke is more than its physical strength—it’s a symbol of resilience, identity, and connection. Each pattern is carefully chosen, often carrying meanings like prosperity, unity, or even spiritual harmony. These aren’t just clothes; they’re conversations, passed down through generations and now shared with the world.
Today, Aso Oke is everywhere, from bridal gowns that steal the show to bold menswear that exudes confidence. It’s even making its way into home décor, where its textures transform spaces into works of art. As sustainability becomes a global priority, Aso Oke’s handmade, slow-crafted process makes it a champion of eco-conscious fashion.
Known for their signature adire, and collections for the modern woman, Damichi as a brand is one of those that is redefining the use of traditionally themed textiles to make contemporary wear. Founded in 2019 by Oluwadamilola Elizabeth Odulaja, their brand is driven by a passion for serving the modern millennial woman. With customers in over 30 countries, they provide a truly inclusive, global fashion experience.
The use of sustainable materials in this 2020 collection by Damichi Exoche shows that the brand prioritises environmentally friendly decisions by choosing durable fabrics and practising small-batch sourcing to ensure quality and minimise overproduction. Leftover materials are repurposed into functional lifestyle products. Each piece is inspired by prints reflecting nature, culture, and travel, with African roots.
The brand’s signature use of Adire, Ankara, and Aso Oke, pays homage to Africa’s rich textile history, much like the traditional patterns of Aso Oke that tell stories of unity, prosperity, and celebration. Damichi’s flowing silhouettes—versatile separates, kaftans, boubous, and dresses—are perfect for modern lifestyles, offering light, travel-friendly options that seamlessly transition from lounging to social gatherings. The bold prints, inspired by nature, culture, and travel, celebrate African roots while resonating with a global audience.
Fabric and Material
The choice of Aso Oke fabric for the outfits is commendable. Aso Oke is revered for its handwoven texture and cultural significance in Yoruba fashion, traditionally reserved for significant occasions such as weddings and coronations. Here, the fabric is reimagined for casual wear, showcasing its adaptability. The slight fraying at the hem adds a modern touch while preserving the charm.
Colour Palette
The striped interplay of navy blue, black, red and pink in the fabric creates a bold, commanding presence. The motifs add a vibrant pop of colour, providing a striking contrast that injects energy into the ensemble. The fuchsia colour embroidery is strategically placed to draw attention to the neckline and chest area, creating a natural focal point.
Silhouette and Structure
The kaftan-inspired silhouette is loose-fitting, ensuring maximum comfort without sacrificing style. The straight cut provides a sweet appeal, making it versatile for women seeking both cultural relevance and practicality. The boxy sleeves are perfectly proportioned, adding structure to the otherwise flowy design.
The raw hemline, with its slightly frayed edges, offers an intentional unfinished aesthetic, aligning with the ongoing trend of “deconstructed fashion” that dominates global runways. This detail bridges the gap between traditional heritage and contemporary streetwear aesthetics.
Styling and Functionality
The sneakers paired with this traditional kaftan is a stellar work of styling. The variation of a culturally significant fabric with sporty footwear is a bold statement, redefining how traditional attire can be worn in today’s urban settings. This look is ideal for casual, everyday occasions like art exhibitions, brunches, or laid-back fashion events where comfort and boldness coexist.’
The raw hemlines add a modern, charm to the outfit, but they could benefit from a more intentional approach. Neatly unravelled threads would create a textured yet polished look, striking the perfect balance between edgy and refined. Alternatively, clean edges with decorative details like embroidery, piping, or bold stitching could elevate the design while keeping its contemporary vibe intact.
The boxy sleeves are a great start but could use a bit more definition. Adding subtle darting or tailored folds would give them structure and presence, enhancing the overall silhouette. These small adjustments would take the outfit from casual chic to effortlessly sophisticated.
Fabric and Material
The second piece in this collection also uses Aso Oke fabric, but the addition of green and purple stripes alongside navy blue transforms the look into something more regal and ceremonial. The precision of the weaving demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship, as the patterns are meticulously aligned to enhance the symmetry of the garment. This attention to detail speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of the artisans involved.
Colour Palette
Here, the embroidery takes on a teal hue, perfectly complementing the green and purple tones in the fabric. Teal has a calming, regal quality, elevating the outfit’s overall mood to one of grace and elegance. The colours used in the entire outfit evoke an aura of celebration, making it ideal for weddings, cultural festivals, and other formal events.
The playfulness of the vibrant stripes is tempered by the sophistication of the embroidery, striking a perfect balance between boldness and elegance.
Silhouette and Structure
The same loose-fitting kaftan silhouette is employed here, but the addition of the gele: headwrap adds structure and formality. The gele, tied in an intricate style, emphasises the wearer’s cultural pride and creates a cohesive aesthetic. The long, flowing lines of the kaftan elongate the figure, ensuring it flatters a variety of body types.
Styling and Accessories
The heeled sandals paired with this look add a touch of refinement, contrasting the sporty vibe of the first ensemble. The addition of the gele transforms the outfit into a formal attire option, suitable for high-profile cultural gatherings. The styling communicates sophistication and respect for tradition, while still maintaining a modern edge.
Versatility and Functionality
This look is more formal and symbolic, making it ideal for occasions where cultural representation and elegance are paramount. The outfit can transition effortlessly from a daytime event to an evening gala, proving its versatility.
The embroidery in the outfits, while elegant, is limited to the neckline and chest area. Extending it subtly to the sleeve edges or hemline would enhance the luxurious feel and make the outfit even more visually engaging.
The heeled sandals are appropriate, but they feel understated compared to the outfit’s cultural richness. Opting for beaded or jewel-embellished sandals with colours that complement the outfit would add sophistication while maintaining cultural resonance. The look is missing a standout accessory.
However, both looks are exceptional in their ability to honour cultural heritage while pushing boundaries in contemporary fashion. They are wearable works of art that celebrate identity, creativity, and innovation. These ensembles not only elevate African fashion on a global stage but also inspire conversations around the preservation and modernization of traditional attire.
Wearing a Damichi piece is more than a style choice—it’s an embrace of African heritage and a celebration of culture and life. By weaving the rich legacy of fabrics like Aso Oke into its ethos, Damichi creates garments that transcend trends, offering a meaningful connection to tradition while carving out a path for the future. When you choose Damichi, you’re celebrating sustainability and standing out in a way that’s both contemporary and deeply rooted in African pride.
Stylishly cut maxi gown are the hottest fashion item; they are turning up everywhere, from classic and chic flowing gown and even smart dresses, in every imaginary colours, pattern, design, style and texture, from twinkling sheer fabrics to thick prints.
Daily change in fashion trends have led to a whole lot of change in the wardrobe of the modern woman. Maxi gowns are quite haute and in vogue these days. There are several features that make maxi gowns unique. But one major reason why they standout is that they offer the wearer a freedom which no other dress can offer. They are always very comfortable to wear.
Many women now grace social events, parties, wedding ceremonies, cocktails even church services with maxi gowns of different lengths. “This is the season of stylish gowns and it is going to be mostly sown with mixed fabrics,” says Busola Isiaka, the petite woman behind Labussy Creations.
“This free flowing gown is sometimes flared or it comes plain. We also design it with big and bold sash belts or bows.”
Happiness Adebayo, Chief Executive Officer of Glee Luxury Hair and Skincare, who is widely considered as number one in Africa in the business of human hair and skincare recently revealed what keeps her going and happy in her business. She said she’s into the business of beauty and nothing makes her happier than making women beautiful.
“I love how excited they always look trying to look so beautiful. The joy for me is indescribable. I knew the calling for me is the beauty business. Basically, the joy of bringing in items and seeing people buy them in no time, seeing happiness radiating in them because they are getting what will make them beautiful , makes me extremely joyous. The Glee brand is built to meet the modern day woman’s hair and skin beauty needs, transforming them into glee queens . With a token you can get the least Glee hair, with about 20 thousand naira you become a yummy Glee Queen in no time. We have different ranges of hair bundles and wigs and we do total skin transformation, helping you choosee the right products to glow and nourish your skin. So it’s just total hair and skin pampering and when the hair is gorgeous with a sparkling skin you rule the world,” she said in a recent interview.
The soon-to-be mother of three who has had passion for entrepreneurial excellence since her adolescent years established her business six years ago while still in the university. She explains what beauty means, iterating that making yourself beautiful is never an attempt to deceive others or look fake.
“Beauty has different meanings to different people. It actually takes a happy woman to be beautiful. It takes happiness for beauty to radiate so much in you and of course, a touch of Glee Luxury Hair and Skincare products. Being really beautiful as a woman means appreciating your true self, never wanting to be someone else and having the mindset that there isn’t a better you. Enhancing one’s beauty for one’s satisfaction, happiness and self confidence shouldn’t be regarded as fake,” she said.
And added, “Enhancing one’s beauty for one’s satisfaction, happiness and self confidence shouldn’t be regarded as fake. Even if you don’t wear wig or install weave-on, you would still tidy your natural hair which means you are enhancing your beauty. One shouldn’t be blamed trying to look their best. About being a ploy to deceive men, I totally disagree. How about the happily married women who still look good all day, everyday? Though every one has their different motives towards things in life but let’s look at the richest black woman, Folorunsho Alakija, she’s always looking her best and it’s very certain she’s not trying to deceive any man.”
The Glee Luxury Hair and Skincare operates from two upscale locations in Lagos; Opebi, Ikeja, on the Mainland and Admiralty Way, Lekki, Island in Lagos.
Happiness Adebayo was born on December 25, 1993. She was born of an Edo woman to a Yoruba man. She’s presently expecting her third child. She’s a graduate of Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomosho, Oyo State with BTECH degree in Food Science and Engineering. She attended Multigrace Primary School and Tunyo Comprehensive College, both in Alimosho local government area of Lagos State. She grew up amonst two brothers and three sisters.
She hails from Oriade local government area of Osun State. She currently has close to 300 thousand followers on Instagram where she tends to promote her businesses more. She calls her teeming customers Glee Queens because of her unique touch.
As Maki Oh (Amaka Osakwe) would say, “Fashion is a canvas for storytelling, and every piece we create tells a tale of Africa’s resilience and creativity.” A typical example of an African fashion design coined out of stories isthat of the very talented Simeon Benjamin Akpan.
He established the awesome SimBena label and clothing line drawing inspiration from watching his mother create custom-made garments in their humble abode. Indeed, to go back to tradition is the first step forward. Drawing insight from the African traditions formed the bedrock of his great establishment that has rolled out collections of befitting female attires, despite being a man. He is particular about using his designs to empower women, especially those who have long craved bodily autonomy.
This year, Simeon’s Afrocentric label has introduced another collection of fun-filled designs that uphold his mission to celebrate traditional African aesthetics while promoting inclusivity and joy. Each of the pieces in the collection is thoughtfully crafted to stimulate happiness, and elicit freedom in its wearers; which seamlessly enables them to express their inner joy to those around them. Looking at the bulk of attires lined up in this 2020 collection, Simeon Benjamin’s love for African prints and passion for enhancing them is reflected in his excellent designs. His innovative designs have not only made the fabrics more vibrant and captivating but also evoked happiness in the wearers of the design.
Diving straight into critiquing some of the designs for this collection, it is evident that Simeon has incorporated both fitted and free-flowing frameworks in his designs. This creates a well-matched balance between the art of structured cuts and soft, sublime draping.
This mini “agbada-kimono dress” says a lot about Simeon’s rootedness in culture. Adopting the Japanese kimono and brilliantly merging it with the Nigerian Agbada to form such a beautiful piece is an astounding blend of culture and design. The Ankara choice of fabric ensures that the overall design nods a yes to African femininity, while unusually tweaking angles and cuts to elevate the traditional attire into a high-fashion masterpiece that every woman can throw on. The black crape material that hems the Ankara fabric runs around the neck down to the edges of the dress and creates a V-shaped neck that perfectly suits the style.
The introduction of holes on both sides of the dress enables the accommodation of the waistband which ensures the dress showcases the curvy shape of the wearer. This was done with great attention to detail, ensuring a uniform oval shape was achieved on both sides. Another eye-catching element of this beautiful dress is the flowing agbada arms that are joined to the body of the dress, yet freely sways along with the movement of the wearer’s arms.
Who would have thought that women could rock the almighty “Yoruba Demons” agbada without losing their sense of femininity? Despite being a short dress, notice, also, how the lower middle part of the dress is not closed. This featured sleet, in addition to the waist cape, differentiates it from the male agbada version, further ensuring that the dress retains its feminine structure. This is sheer creativity displayed by Simeon in this elegant attire.
However, more attention can be paid to the finishing touches. The edges of the dress can be finished without the stitches showing. It makes the design, however stunning, look unprofessional when simple details as such are overlooked. In this game, all “Ts” must be crossed and “Is” dotted to attain that leading design role in the fashion industry.
That being said, the overall design is nothing short of creativity, ranging from the concept of culture-fashion blend to the finesse touch that finally birthed the style outcome. This is a very comfortable dress to add to one’s wardrobe. It is sure to serve its wearers even on a bad day. Wether you are a lover of heeled shoes or comfortable flats, feel free to combine them with this brilliantly curated attire and show the world just how much joy radiates within you.
This is another fabulously looking design made with a combination of two popular fabrics – Basin and Kampala. The choice of fabric ensures that the design gives a positive gesture to the African heritage which is one of the big ideas behind Simeon’s label.
The design features a radiantly tailored long Japanese kimono with puffed sleeves that evoke a sense of authority. The sleeves are enclosed at the wrist with elastic finishes that ensure the puff is brought to a seamless stop at the wearer’s wrist.
The mixture of both materials blends so well that if one didn’t know better, it would have been thought that the basin material is an extension of the Kampala. The prints and patterns of both materials are not conflicting, neither are the colours contrasting. The consistency of both colours is simply complementary, with the red Basin giving the Kampala a pop that radiates liveliness, while the former is toned down by the latter.
Featuring the waist belt in the design ensures that the shape of the wearer is highlighted, even though the style is free. Customers can therefore be confident when they wear this masterpiece, without the fear of looking lost in the flowing nature of the style. Also, the decision to use the Kampala material as the waist belt, ensuring that it is long enough to run downward over the dress creates an additional layer of creativity that makes the dress appealing to the eyes. Although this seems like an insignificantly minute detail, however, subtle elements like these add depth and meaning to the overall design.
Additionally, the Basin material is joined with the Kampala to form a two-piece-looking pinafore from the top area of the dress. With the low V-shaped neck of the dress, it could better still be likened to an armless Kimono jacket, worn on a puff-handed inner top as seen in the corporate setting. However, it is not two-pieced. Both materials were carefully combined to come up with a single astonishingly holistic design.
This beau does not necessarily need a loud accessory to speak volumes. It is also ideal for both day and night outings and wearers have a series of events and outings to rock this attire without feeling underdressed.
While this dress is awesome, it is not without its notable flaws. Firstly, the only available means by which one can get ventilation while wearing this dress is from the slightly low V-neck line. Even at that, wearers will still have to endure heat at some point, except if they are consistently in an air-conditioned environment or the Western world. However, for African customers, being that the weather is mostly hot therein, this is a shortcoming that can be worked on to improve the overall experience of the customers.
Secondly, the design did not take the free movement of the wearer into perspective. There is no provision for sleet in the straight-wrapped kimono dress and this definitely hinders the free movement of the wearer. Perhaps the introduction of a front sleet can simultaneously solve the problem of ventilation and at the same time, ensure that customers are able to freely move their legs in the dress. This makes the dress look less rigid and much more comfortable for wearers to rock.
Generally, one very significant feature of Simeon’s brilliant choice of fabrics in this 2020 collection is that the textiles are natural and sustainable. This highlights his ability to align his designs with the global movement towards an environmentally conscious fashion. It shows that it is not just a matter of wanting to design clothes, rather, it is a calling for him to use his designs to make a lasting impact and make the world a better place in all regards possible.
Furthermore, through the designs in this 2020 collection, Simeon has proven his aim to inspire freedom and joy, encouraging customers to express themselves confidently and in an authentic manner. The bulk of designs that were rolled out for this 2020 collection have upheld his promises and values and indeed resonate with customers.
On a final note, Simeon’s 2020 collection is a combination of the mastery of African pride, modern fashion, and traditional artistry. It is a collection that celebrates the African continent in a fresh and relevant way, making a compelling statement for African fashion as a major influence in global style. Simeon’s designs are thoughtfully crafted, culturally meaningful, and versatile; offering something for every fashion-forward woman who wants to embrace style with quintessence.
Lara Cole is a designer, runs a modelling outfit and is CEO ElanRed. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about her inspiration, working with celebrities like Yemi Alade as well as the things that make her tick.
WHO or what inspired you to go into fashion?
It’s a long story and I would say that I was inspired by the things around me. My sister actually inspired me to go into fashion. She had a very great taste when it comes to creative things. So, I just wanted to imitate her dress sense. In addition, my sister started giving me designer’s bags and they were very beautiful and creative. Interestingly, I had no idea if they were original ones at that point. Now, I know better.
What were you doing before going into the sector?
That was another very creative part of my life. Then, I had a modelling agency and worked with a number of models. It was a wonderful experience and I learnt a lot of things in the process. I did some jobs with media brands and they are quite memorable.
What was your specialisation? What are your designs noted for?
My specialisation is creating timeless and wearable pieces for trendy women. They are noted for the versatility.
Tell us about life working with celebrities. Who are your clients?
Our celebrities are very creative people; they like to be seen in things that are unique and unusual. I must say that my experience working with celebrities helped me improve and think outside the box.
There was no room for excuses or complaints. I have worked with celebrities like Alex Unusual, Yemi Alade, good girl LA, King Perry and lots more. Talking about my clients, my clients are people who feel the need to look good about themselves with the trendy woman style. Alex Unusual rocked a number of our pieces. It’s been a very creative and adventurous journey.
What were some of the runway/ fashion shows that you participated in?
It’s been a very memorable experience for me. I have participated in some shows and some of the memorable ones included the Glitz Fashion Week Ghana and Styled by Zenith.
Let’s talk about some memorable moments in your life and career
Making other people look good has been very memorable and fulfilling for me. I recall that one of such memorable moments was when I opened my Elan Red store and each time I look back and recollect the things we did I also have great memories. One other exciting period for me was styling Yemi Alade for her Johnny video. It was a very exciting period and such moments inspire us to do more.
What are some of the challenges encountered?
My challenges include spending more than your capital, over budgeting and so much expenses. Here you can think of expansion, something like trying to expand horizons but sometimes it ends up being futile if you do not plan very well. Uncalculated risks; not calculating before breaking into the market with full force also comes with a number of challenges. All these are the challenges I have been trying to battle with.
How do you cope with them?
Coping with them for me is strategy and I work around it. All I do is have a positive disposition, optimism, read good books, go for conferences and seminars, reach out to people or listen to podcasts on how to get better. In fact, I pounce on every opportunity I see to improve my abilities.
No setback is worth me stopping or slowing down the zeal I have to improve. Each time there is a challenge as a result of uncalculated risks, we learn new lessons that brings new opportunities. I will calculate another one hopefully better and be more accurate with the process.
Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life and career?
I consider travelling as a great influence in my life. I visited Egypt two years ago and I learnt a lot from their culture and their fashion sense. It was indeed an experience to remember and it actually helped influence my brand positively. I also consider meeting top class designers as a great influence.
Let’s compare when you started and now. What has changed?
Right now, I have learnt a lot from my experience and it has helped me to improve on the job. I must also say that understanding my target audience has been amazing; this makes it easy to churn out amazing pieces for my clients. It helps you to know what they want and how well I can give it to them. So a lot has changed. My style has improved. Every day we learn, so I keep evolving with the trends.
What are you looking forward to in the next few years?
I am going into other businesses; they are also fashion and life style-inclined. I am starting up with my blog RedEdit Fashion blog. Then we have the Red Summer, this is a summer beach pop up party affair and lifestyle is not left out as well. There are some other things in the pipeline and we are going to unfold the other plans as we go on.
What are some of the changes that you would like to see in the sector?
I would like to see more governmental involvements, granting of loans to fashion designers, more textile companies, more fashion-inclined personalities, serious fashion buyers and also a more stable economy.
What are some of the lessons that you have learnt?
A lot of lessons have been learnt over the years. I have learnt to take more calculated risks. It is also important to avoid so much work so as not to fall ill. The crux of the matter is that once you are ill, you can’t work and meet your deadlines. To be a good designer, making impact in your sector, you must interact and meet people. In addition, don’t waste any knowledge, don’t take much time pondering on something you should act on immediately. I also learnt overtime that you must take action when action needs to be taken.
What is your definition of style?
Style is basically expressing yourself through what you wear. But on another note, style is beyond what you wear. Style can be seen as a particular way of doing or saying something. Like the YK (Yellow Kaftan) community, we are known for our style, Summer style and elegant lifestyle.
How would you assess our female designers today?
They have come a long way; they think outside the box. It is really a source of empowerment because some of them have even gone global. Thumbs up, I must say.
What are some of the things that you treasure most in life?
I treasure God first, then family, my friends and the free things money can’t buy. I don’t underrate them at all.
How do you relax?
I love travelling, basically. It gives me tranquility and I get to learn a lot and assimilate too. I love shopping as well; this gives me so much joy.
What are some of the things that you won’t do in the name of fashion?
I don’t like indecent exposure. It’s not really my thing. So, basically, I can’t do it in the name of fashion.
Let’s talk about the people you admire and role models
Megan Markle is someone that I admire. I admire her a lot, her tenacity, strength, feminine composure but still strong. I like her ideas; I like the fact that she knows when to step away from situations.
How would you describe your experience in the sector?
I am just a usual mum, wife, designer and business owner. I started ElanRed in 2015 and it was borne out of the need to sell luxury clothing at an affordable price point. Also at that point, we started the Elanred Holiday campaign and we launched it at the end of 2015 to end the year and herald the New Year.
That was a big turning point for us. It featured bright and bold colours and latest designs from designers all around the world. The campaign was modelled by top male model Toyin Oyeneye, TV presenter Elma Godwin and singer Toni Tones. Just while we were having the success stories, we also had some low moments. At that point, we lost some goods to thieves. That was a low point for me as we also just restocked.
What does it mean to be a young entrepreneur?
A young entrepreneur should be hardworking, focused on what they want and be diligent at it every step of the way. My advice to them is to remain innovative and work towards achieving their goals through hard work and consistency. They should also put their trust in God.
Can you tell us about your background?
I was born in the city of Lagos to a family of five. My primary and secondary education were all in Lagos and I went on to study Biology Education at the University of Lagos. I then went to study Fashion Designing and Merchandising at the European School of Economics in New York, USA. I am married with two boys.
Beatrice Abel Ubeku is an activist, philanthropist and wife of the pioneer Chairman of Guinness Nigeria Plc. She was one of the women who played a key role during the Beijing Conference in 1995. In this encounter with Yetunde Oladeinde, she goes down memory lane to talk about her experience and memories touching the lives of women at the grassroots.
THIS year makes it 25 years after Beijing. How do you feel being one of the Nigerian women who participated actively at the Conference?
Not too pleased. What we thought Beijing 1995 was going to do for us; that is that it would make women to go places is not yet there. We have not gone far, that is the bone of contention. You can see from today’s outing that women are not ready to work together. The problem with many is that they want to showcase themselves alone. A tree cannot make a forest.
Let’s go down memory lane and recall what you did at Beijing then
I was in a preparatory group to Dakar 94 and then I was also at Beijing 95. I was in Beijing on behalf of the country. Then, I had a chairman of the committee, who motivated and inspired us in so many ways. Unfortunately, there was confusion during the Beijing outing. Leila Dongoyaro, our chairman, was removed at the last minute after she had worked hard and prepared everybody for the conference.
To God be the Glory, my husband stepped in and gave me a ticket. Interestingly, when I got there and they were not there.
The team should have been there but because of these things that had disorganised them, there was a problem. Then after this we began to do things, and there were a number of dedicated people. This included the likes of the late Professor Jadesola Akande, may her soul rest in peace. There was also Dr Keziah Awosika, Hilda Adefarasin and many others.
When they came, they were at the capital of Beijing. They were not at the local level, but the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) were at the local level and there were so many activities going on. And when it was time, they were not there and so I presented a card on behalf of the Nigerian women. I designed it and when I presented it with other countries, CNN took me on and it was news. It meant that we are joined with countries for peace mission. It took me worldwide and everybody saw it.
Mrs Maryam Abacha was the first lady at that time. She led the delegation; they recognised it and they celebrated all of us together in Beijing. At the United Nations level, I was there with delegates like Dr Mrs Tokunboh Awolowo Dosunmu. They gave us a torch; it was a gift and the message to us was to go back to your country and be a torch to other women. This I have done, and there are so many inspiring messages looking down memory lane.
It was after Beijing that the government of Nigeria recognised me and gave me a national
honour as MFR. That was under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. My government also recognised me and moved me to Delta, which is my state and they gave me Justice of Peace. So, I would say that it is good to work together. My advice to Nigerian women today is let’s network; unfortunately, we don’t know how to network.
You just want to own everything by yourself. You can’t do it alone. And when you go places, you cannot do without mentioning others. That is one thing we don’t remember to do; it is important to appreciate the support from others, mention them, appreciate them because they made it possible for you to go this far.
What advice do you have for Nigerian women at this time?
We are not taking the issue of networking seriously. For instance, those who went into politics are just thinking of money. You have heard the woman from Cameroon saying ‘it’s your brain, not your foot.’ This way and not that way, you are there for a purpose. Always ask yourself: what is your purpose? Is it to enrich yourself or you want to touch lives and bring development to your women and their children as well as the entire nation and be known as the woman who fought for others?
Are you attending CSW to commemorate 25th anniversary of Beijing?
Yes, I am going. My take is that we must put our house in order. We go there to listen to what they have to say and then we come back to sleep.
Tell us about your organisation for women; WAWA
It is for the ECOWAS women. The women were asked to come together and the chapter in Nigeria was dormant. Dr Chaba and Hon Kadir nominated me and brought me to ECOWAS sub-region where they interviewed me. They thought I could do some magic and I told them my magic is networking. I have served the National Council for Women’s Societies (NCWS). I have served Lions Club. We must be ready to touch lives and serve humanity in whatever we do.
I have also served the International Women’s Society (IWS). I have also served my local NGO at the local level in Isselu Uko. All that came from the impact of Beijing 95. I learnt so much, came back and created my own NGO.
HAVING a great-fitting kimono jacket in your wardrobe can help you create some great outfits. That is why Kimono jackets apart from blazers are the second pick for a wardrobe must.
These are items you have that are not especially trendy and can be paired with lots of great stuff to create your own unique look.
Kimono jackets are a great basis for a stylish outfit, especially a darker pair; you can dress them up or down.
