A Cultural Spectacle at AFWN 2024 

Vanessa Obioha

Nigerian culture came alive at the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) runway show, celebrating its 10th anniversary in grand style. From vibrant masquerades dancing on the runway and cultural troupes to the creative brilliance of the designers, the event was a rich showcase of the nation’s cultural heritage. 

The three-day affair was graced by notable dignitaries, including His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, Chief Abiola Dosunmu, the former First Lady of Ekiti, Bisi Fayemi, and the First Lady of Kwara, Olufolake AbdulRazaq.

Over 60 designers showcased their collections, each incorporating African textiles and materials that reflect Nigeria’s cultural identity. For instance, designer Modela presented models in raffia ensembles, while Adire Teems highlighted Adire and Aso-oke fabrics. Minengiby took elegance to new heights with her collection, featuring regal long flowing gowns. Meanwhile, Ejiro Amos Tafiri, known for her innovative styles, had Big Brother Naija alumni Seyi Awolowo and Saga Adeoluwa walk the runway in her designs.

In collaboration with Sterling Bank, AFWN 2024 also introduced the Emerging Designers Competition, where Adesua Ella of Lambert Fashion was named the inaugural winner. Her prize included a staycation at the Kunle Afolayan Production (KAP) Academy resort, courtesy of Sterling Bank, as well as an all-expenses-paid opportunity to showcase her designs at Africa Fashion Week London 2025.

AFWN’s convener, Queen Ronke Ademuliyi Ogunwusi, also announced an exciting partnership with the London School of Economics for an executive masterclass program designed to provide valuable support to Nigerian designers. “This programme, the Economics of Fashion, is about economic opportunities and how Nigerian and African creatives can create jobs, stimulate entrepreneurship, and provide market access for young designers,” she explained.

“It’s obvious that the traditional curriculum courses taught in our universities here in Nigeria are not enough anymore to provide jobs for our youth, and we need to teach them skills that will equip them for jobs of the future – creative skills. By supporting these local creative businesses, we can help drive economic growth and development.”