Nigeria Fashion Week took place this year in Abuja, marking a notable shift from its usual venue in Lagos. The event showcased an array of extravagant designs, with Nigerian models presenting pieces characterized by voluminous fabrics and intricate patterns reminiscent of Carnival celebrations, both local and international. The move from Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city and cultural hub, to the nation’s administrative capital signals an effort to reshape perceptions of Abuja as a center for creativity and fashion.
Since becoming Nigeria’s capital in 1991, Abuja has developed at a measured pace, retaining a quieter, more orderly atmosphere compared to the bustling energy of Lagos. While the city hosts government offices and modern infrastructure, parts of its downtown remain underdeveloped, with a mix of construction sites and agricultural land. Unlike Lagos, Abuja lacks a prominent entertainment industry akin to Nollywood or a concentration of music stars but has been gradually cultivating its own artistic scene, including photography and film festivals as well as growing literary activities.
Lexy Mojo-Eyes, the organizer of Nigeria Fashion Week and a Lagos veteran, noted the city’s slow pace and laid-back attitude, framing the relocation as an opportunity to reposition Abuja as a dynamic fashion center. The event also intended to foster increased collaboration between the creative sectors and governmental institutions.
Culture Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa emphasized the importance of government support in building a conducive environment for the arts. Speaking during the fashion week, she highlighted the need for reforms in tourism and intellectual property laws to encourage growth in the cultural economy. Musawa’s presence underscored official recognition of the sector’s potential role in national development.
The international dimension of the week was reflected in the participation of Libyan designer Rabia Ben Barka, attending Abuja for the first time. Ben Barka praised the city’s cleanliness and organization, contrasting it with other regional capitals. Her runway collection included shimmering dresses and sharp, retro-inspired silhouettes, as well as a standout metallic pinstripe suit worn by a male model, signaling a blend of tradition and modernity aimed at redefining businesswear in the capital.
Overall, the relocation of Nigeria Fashion Week to Abuja represents a strategic effort to diversify the country’s cultural landscape and elevate the profile of its administrative capital within the global fashion arena.