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THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RUNWAY IN AFRICA

FASHION WEEK

APRIL 19TH - 22ND, 2019

TRUTH & REASON

The much awaited ARISE FASHION WEEK is here again. In just a few weeks, April 19th-22nd, at Lagos Intercontinental hotel, we will see various collections from

designers from all over the world. It promises to be just as exciting as the last one was. I actually look forward to the high octane pace required by the ARISE team

to put everything in place to ensure the show runs smoothly.The backstory of our events is always full of drama, tears but plenty

of laughter! As you well know, behind every successful outing, is the most interesting backstory!

Many designers that were discovered by us are globally recognized for their creations today which is a thing of pride for us as a nation. Over time,

other designers have also grown into their own aesthetic after discovering where their strength truly lies. Everyone in this industry knows how difficult it is

to remain on top of your game. Ideas and creations have to be kept on point for any designer worth their salt to stay relevant with the times. This is, by no means, an easy

feat to achieve. Not only that, as l keep saying, mastering the execution from illustration of a garment to making of the garment is paramount for every designer because the

catwalk is very unforgiving to flaws. We selected our designers for this year’s show based on skill, aesthetic and merit. The bar has been raised so high

and we eagerly look forward to what they will present us with. I bet there will be many gasps of delight, some jaw-droppers, not to mention the element of surprise. Some will definitely push the envelope for sure!

Seeing their clothes on the rack backstage and later on the catwalk is like watching larva bloom into a beautiful butterfly as the models strut in their creations.

The ARISE team is always exhausted after weeks of sleepless nights but the euphoria felt after the final show cannot be surmounted in words! It makes all the sweat and craziness of behind the scenes well worth it and l can’t wait!

We will be filling you in with further details of the show on our Instagram handle @arisefashionweek before the event commences.

We look forward to seeing you all again!

Thisday sTyleFashion Director/executive eDitor

RuTH OSIME

eDitor Print OLuFuNKE BABS-KuFEjI

eDitor Digital KONyE NWABOgOR

style corresPonDent MOjISOLA ALLEN

style corresPonDent SAFINA MOHAMMEd

senior art Designer MATHIAS ARCHIBONg

contributorsRuKy SALAKO

juLIET ALuAyOdEjI ROTINWA

PhotograPherTy BELLO

Director, Print ProDuction. CHuKS ONWudINjO

08111847085

08111847086

08111847087

08116759745

07054965500

08077092196

Fashion Director/executive eDitor

ConTenTFashionTHE ONLY BAGS AND PURSES YOU NEED TO OWNPG 6

5 miNUTES WiTH TEmiTOPE mAYEGUNPG 8

mOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATiONPG 16-17

HEROiNES WHO SHAPED THE HiSTORY OF NiGERiAPG 18-20

THE ENGAGEmENTRiNG SHAPE FOR 2019PG 21

STYLE ESSENTiALS EvERY mAN NEEDSPG 22-23

T H E M O S T B E A U T I F U L R U N W A Y I N A F R I C A !

A P R I L 1 9 T H - 2 2 N D 2 0 1 9

Africa’s leading fashion show platform, ARISE FASHION WEEK produced by THISDAY Media group, is set to take place this year, April 19th-22nd, 2019 at the Lagos Intercontinental hotel. The show promises to be just as fulfilling and innovative as the last one if not more. Selected designers showcasing in their varying categories were chosen with this in mind. As the bar has been raised even higher this time around, our choice of designers were determined by the quality, aesthetics and vision of their collection. Expect to see riveting designs, out-of-the-world creations, not to mention the versatility and uniqueness that will stun audiences worldwide. Out of 1,700 entries for the LMVH Prize, two of our designers who participated in the last ARISE FASHION WEEK, Kenneth Ize and Thebe Magugu, are amongst the eight finalists! This platform gave them the exposure they needed to get noticed and they were. This is how far and wide the outreach of showcasing in ARISE FASHION WEEK is. We are keeping our fingers crossed that one of them wins the coveted prize. The opportunities and great global awareness for them are limitless.

ARISE FASHION WEEK ISHERE AGAIN!

The dates for casting of models will be announced shortly

NIGERIAN DESIGNERS

Odio MimonetItuen BasiLDATiffany AmberNkwoMai AtafoBridget

Awosika OkunorenAndrea IyamahTzarStyle TempleTurfahTokyo JamesGozel GreenClan (P)

Bumi KokoTorloweiYutee Rone

AFRICAN DESIGNERS

ChulaapKenneth IzeMaison ARTCRich Minsi

Thebe MaguguMowalola

INTERNATIONALDESIGNERS

ParadisAhluwalia StudioAsiaAshi StudioBethany Williams

U.Mi-1Esterban CortazarWales BonnerPyer MossRobin CavalliPost ImperialShem Paronelli

DESIGNERS ON THE RUNWAY

THE TONY ELUMELU FOUNDATION SELECTION ANNOUNCEMENT 2019

On March 22, 2019, the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) announced 3,050 entrepreneurs to join the 5th cohort of its $100 million Entrepreneurship Programme. The event, which was held at the iconic Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, witnessed the attendance of Her Excellency, Wife of the President of Nigeria, HE (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari, who gave a keynote speech. Also in attendance were representatives from the African public and private sectors as well as development organisations present, as the Foundation marked the 5th round of its Entrepreneurship Programme.

Every year for a period of 10 years, the Tony Elumelu Foundation directly funds 1,000 entrepreneurs, and this year, 2,050 additional entrepreneurs will be empowered with the support of the Foundation’s partners.

Present to witness the event were partners of the Tony Elumelu Foundation - International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Benin Republic’s Sèmè City, The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bostwana Government, US Consulate, Indorama Anambra State Government and African Development Bank (AFDB), among others.

www.tonyelumelufoundation.org

1

Tony O. Elumelu, CON, Founder, Tony ElumeluFoundation

Khardiata Lo Ndiaye, Resident Representativeof UNDP in Nigeria

L-R: Parminder Vir, OBE. CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Catriona Laing, British HighCommissioner to Nigeria; Tony O. Elumelu, CON, Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation;

Jerome Pasquier, French Ambassador to Nigeria

L-R: Dr. Awele Elumelu, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation; H.E (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari,Wife of the President of Nigeria; Tony O. Elumelu, CON, Founder,

Tony Elumelu Foundation

H.E (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari, Wife of the President of Nigeria

L-R: Taimur Bashir, Deputy Economic Security Coordinator, ICRC; Zahara Al-janabi, Public Relations Officer, ICRC

L-R: Christopher Ezeafulukwe, Executive Director, Transcorp Plc; Adesimbo Ukiri, Chief Executive Officer, Avon HMO; Valentine

Ozigbo, President/CEO, Transcorp Plc; Tony Okpanchi, MD, Developement Bank of Nigeria

Ilyes Bdioui - Chief Finance Officer and Partnerships, AfDB

L-R: Emeka Ugwu-Oju, Founder, NESH; Shimon Ben-Shoshan, Isreali Ambassador to Nigeria

L-R: Hajiya Miaro Almakura, Wife of the Governor of Nasarawa State; Tony O. Elumelu, CON, Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation; H.E (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari, Wife

of the President of Nigeria; Dr. Awele Elumelu, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Mrs Rashida Yahaya Bello, Wife of the Governor of Kogi State

Parminder Vir, OBE. CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation and Osato Noah, West Africa Lead, Accenture

Development Partnerships.

L-R: Mohamed Fall, Country Director Unicef; Alex Trotter, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Bernhard Schlagheck, German Ambassador to Nigeria

Dr. Awele Elumelu, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation A cross-section of TEF beneficiaries on the sidelines of the Selection Announcement

A cross-section of guests at the presentation of the selection process by Accenture Development Partnerships.

Oluwatomiwa Shotiloye, Head, Retail Liabilities ,UBA Group; Sunny Anene, MD/CEO Asset Management, United Capital; Claude Borna, MD and Chief Innovation

Officer, Sèmè City Development Agency, Republic of Benin.

L-R: Emmanuel Nnorom, Group CEO, Heirs Holdings; Angela Aneke, Board Member, Heirs Holdings

L-R: Alex Trotter, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation, ; Bernhard Schlagheck, German Ambassador to Nigeria, Ifeyinwa Ugochukwu, Incoming CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Jalel Trabelsi, Tunisian Ambassador to Nigeria, HRH Ebitimi Banigo, King of Okpoama; Tony O.

Elumelu, CON, Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Dr. Awele Elumelu, Trustee, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Catriona Laing, British High Commissioner to Nigeria Jerome Pasquier; French Ambassador to Nigeria; Philip Baker, Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria.

Aminu Gusau, Representing Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu

L-R: Uzo Oshogwe, CEO, Afriland Properties; Samuel Nwanze, Chief Investment Officer,

Heirs Holdings.

L-R: Ralph El Hage, Manager, Donor Relations, Corporate Partnerships and Fundraising, ICRC; Eloi Fillion, Head of

Delegation, Head of Mission- Nigeria, ICRC

L-R: Tony O. Elumelu, CON, Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Rose Okwechime, MD/CEO, Abbey Building Society Plc; Prof. Sylvester Monye

L-R: Jerome Pasquier, French Ambassador to Nigeria, Philip Baker, Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria; Ifeyinwa Ugochukwu, Incoming CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation;

Jalel Trabelsi, Tunisian Ambassador to Nigeria

Dupe Olusola, Group Head, Marketing UBA Plc; Anant Rao, Group Executive Digital & Consumer Banking, UBA Plc

Anno Kokeletso Tshipa, Head, Marketing & Communications, Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA), Botswana

A cross-section of TEF beneficiaries networking at the Selection AnnouncementL-R: Nneka Onwudiwe, SSA to Governor on Donor Agencies (UNDP), Anambra State Govt; Yvonne Khamati , Deputy Ambassador to Kenya

Ozzy Agu, Event Emcee flanked by selected applicants into the TEF

Entrepreneurship Programme

Tony O. Elumelu, CON addresses a cross-section of guests at the Selection Announcement L-R: Ifeyinwa Ugochukwu, Incoming CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Dewunmi Alugbin, Partnerships Manager, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Parminder Vir, OBE. CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation; Oley Dibba-Wadda, Director, Human Capital,

Youth and Skills Development, AfDB; Ilyes Bdioui, Chief Finance Officer and Partnerships, AfDB

L-R: Owen Omogiafo, CEO, Transcorp Hotels Plc; Obong Idiong, Managing Director/CEO, Africa Prudential Plc

Download it now Mother’s day is_onEcobank_on

Happy Mother’s DayA big thank you to

mums everywhere from everyone at Ecobank

ecobank.com

THE ONLY BAGS AND PURSES YOU NEED TO OWN ...just follow Tosin Adegbite’s footsteps

Handbags and purses are among the most functional, hard-working accessories in our closet. They hold all of our day-to-day items, shielding our valuables and not-so valuables from inclement weather, damage and theft - and, in most cases, they help complete our polished looks.

But, now more than ever, we are overwhelmed with so many choices - between styles and prices - there seems to be an endless amount of options. But we’re here to help. Here’s our guide to the only handbags you’ll ever need.

By funke BaBs-kufeji

THE CASUAL DAY BAGThis is your wildcard, and it allows you to show off your personal style. There are plenty of options that won’t break the bank, from a striped hobo to a sporty messenger to a croc patent clutch. On those days when you can have a little more fun with your look, switch things up and work this bag into your 9-to-5 routine. It’s a great way to kick up - and show off - your style.

THE EVENING CLUTCHMost of us will need an evening clutch at some point, so why wait until the night before a big, fancy event to run out and buy one? The most timeless (and versatile) style you can own is a simple black satin or metallic clutch in gold or silver. This is one bag that should be as seasonless as possible, because you want to be able to hold onto it for years and use it for any event. If you want a little bit of sparkle, try to pick one with a jewel on the clasp. This has a more classic, lasting appeal and goes effortlessly with everything.

THE ICONIC BIGIf you’re looking to invest in something truly luxurious, you’ll want to make sure it can last you for years to come. Enter the classic iconic bag, à la a Birkin bag or the highly coveted classic Chanel bag.These bags can stand on their own - perpetually making a statement and outlasting any trend. For example, the Chanel Classic Handbag is one of the most iconic handbags ever designed. It is the LBD of handbags (albeit an expensive one). Luckily, alternate options exist for those who don’t have $5,000 to drop on this beauty.

THE STRAW BASKETThe straw basket can be your go-to bag in the warmer months. It’s an ideal summer carry-all and can and should be a little more playful than your other handbags (cue colourful pom-poms). Pack it up with snacks and a towel for a beach day with your friends or with your everyday items as you commute to work.Style icon Jane Birkin made the straw basket famous in the ‘70s when she made it her signature handbag, long before Hermes made the Burlington bag in her honour.

THE ICONIC BIGIf you’re looking to invest in something truly luxurious, you’ll want to make sure it can last you for years to come. Enter the classic iconic bag, à la a Birkin bag or the highly coveted classic Chanel bag.These bags can stand on their own - perpetually making a statement and outlasting any trend. For example, the Chanel Classic Handbag is one of the most iconic handbags ever designed. It is the LBD of handbags (albeit an expensive one). Luckily, alternate options exist for those who don’t have $5,000 to drop on this beauty.

THE MEDIUM-SIZED SHOULDER BAGShoulder bags have a sleek and sophisticated yet sporty appeal - and are another perfect daily go-to. Rich leather or textured suedes are ideal, but even a neat canvas fabric in the summer can be perfect for a lightweight, weather-appropriate look. The options for this type range drastically, so a lot of what’s worth it is also determined by your own personal style, taste level and budget.

THE CROSSBODY PURSEAs we all know, this bag gives you great freedom of movement while keeping your things literally close to your chest! It looks more chic than a backpack. A good crossbodybag will have a sturdy strap that’s adjustable with a front flap that’s easy to maneuver. It shouldn’t be too heavy and should be a medium size - go too small and it’s not going to be very functional, too big and it can overwhelm you.

THE DAY CLUTCHA neat, tailored daytime clutch is a fantastic option if you can deal with editing what goes in and what stays out. Smaller pouches are cute and light, but you usually can’t get more than a lipstick and a smartphone in there. Try to pick one that has multiple pockets and a bit of dimension so you can carry your essentials. This is one of those bags you can have fun with - you don’t have to spend a lot on this style, so try playing with different materials and colours.

THE LEATHER DAY SATCHELThis is the essential workhorse handbag. A medium to large top handle bag that can hold almost everything like your paperback book or tablet (and your pouch for makeup touch-ups). Try to choose one in a neutral-colour leather like black or medium to dark brown so that scuffs and stains won’t be noticeable, because who else has spilled their morning coffee on their bag? Also try to steer clear from bags with lots of hardware or logos -,those can date your bag.

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S T Y L E & d E S i g n THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019

12

678

34

5

12

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What is your entrepreneurship story. your startup and the journey thus far.

My entrepreneurship journey began divinely in 2015, when I got certified in Natural Skincare in America, after which, we set up the manufacturing company, secured certifications from regulatory bodies before commencement of operation, put together an efficient team to work within the various departments, then sold our first batch of products which has now expanded to over 200 products currently under our brand. In summary, it has been a blend of sweet, delightful, challenging yet rewarding journey.

What inspired you to set up this skincare business?The alarming rate at which chemical and synthetic

products are flooding the market and over-the-counter was the propelling force, it became a necessity to provide alternative natural skin and hair care products for consumers without them breaking the bank.

The natural skincare beauty industry is fast gaining traction. How lucrative is the business?

I just absolutely agree with you on how large the industry has grown. It is a welcome development, and competition is a good ground for business to thrive. Being the largest natural skin and hair care brand in Africa, it would be fallacy to say that we are not enjoying the profit dividends, so allow me say that it is indeed lucrative.

The industry seems to be getting saturated, owing to the number of people shifting towards it. What future do you see for this space in the next ten years?

I believe with proper standardization, effective control from the regulatory bodies, support from the government and commercial institutions, there will be great room for improvement giving Nigeria at least 30% market share of the world beauty and cosmetics manufacturers’ annual earnings.

What challenges do you face regarding this line of business?

Inaccessibility to adequate funding for more sophisticated up to date machineries, efficient and trustworthy manpower, raw materials sourcing from farms locally and internationally. For every business the list can be endless but you must find ways to rise above all.

What keeps you passionate about skin/hair care?Over the years having seen the aftermath of

damaged skin and hair from various effects, such as over-the-counter chemical products, surgery scars, acne, stretch marks, hair loss just to mention a few cases our products addresses, there’s no greater joy than to restore a smile to these people when the quality of their skin or hair has improved after using our product. Above all, it is the divine inspiration to continue to innovatively create new products that will continue to address general beauty issues.

you are currently rebranding one of your products, can you tell us why and how?

This is borne out of the desire to serve the buyers better, not forgetting that we are penetrating various countries worldwide. It is therefore, essential that we meet the global standard of packaging. It is also a general standard that international beauty brands over the years continue to embrace new concepts, so we are not far from home by rebranding the general Avila Natural Outlook.

Do you believe in women empowerment? in what way(s) have you helped to empower younger women in your line of business?

It would erode all I stand for if I don’t believe in first, the education of girls and the empowerment

of women. We recently just started five women to become distributors of Avila Natural with no funds paid. The bulk of our distributors are women and I’ve watched them grow from the little funds they had to become millionaires in the space of one year! We’re interested in the pledges our CSR meets in the education of girl children either by proxy or choice from us.

Where do you see your brand in five years?We see a more accepted brand globally expanding

beyond our four continents’ current reach; we see a brand that would bring in foreign investors and researchers alike, recognizable by International bodies and placing Nigeria on the world top beauty brands lists.

What areas of concern do you see in this industry?Well a lot of damaging fake skin care products, a lot

of makers hiding under the umbrella of organic and natural skincare to produce harmful products, this is hugely saddening I must say.

What’s your beauty routine like? How do you maintain your smooth skin?

Unbeknown to people because I’m in the beauty industry, daily routines are hard to keep up so I keep it simple, black soap, Avila Natural moisturizer, and about five essential oils already mixed into my cream, l drink lots of water and eat vegetables. Weekends are a superb time to extend the routine to Avila Natural pineapple scrub! It’s perfect for a body glow and complexion enhancement and maintenance from our harsh weather.

What’s your definition of beauty?I know this is cliche but it must first be innate

However we live in a superficial world, and as such, appearance is key, good skin, hair, carriage. Brains as beauty is not complete without it. This pretty much sums it up for me.

What is your take on the expression, “Beauty is skin deep”?

Depends on the angle you see it from, taking us back to my initial definition of beauty as first innate, it would interest you to know that how beautiful one perceives his or herself is a reflection of everything they portray on the outside. By just seeing women get rid of the pimples with our products, I’m introduced to a whole new being, a personality I didn’t perceive they had before. Beauty translates to different sides of us.

Minutes with

TEMITOPEMAYEGUN

Temitope Mayegun is the Founder and executive director of avila natural, a skin and hair care brand. This brand is the largest

manufacturer of natural and organic products in africa with over 400 distributors worldwide with partnership and raw material sourcing

from about 500 farms worldwide. having bagged a B.sc degree in accounting from the University of lagos as well as an advanced diploma in skincare in the United states of america, Temitope started the beauty brand and carved a

niche in natural, organic skin and hair products with over 30,000 coconuts! also her experience in the financial institution, not to mention several

investment banking for individuals and corporations, has played a major role in her success. Temitope is passionate about women

development, an interest which she expresses through several corporate social responsibility (CsR), driving business and

women empowerment through funds and products.

It would erode all I stand for if I don’t believe in first, the education of girls and the

empowerment of women. We recently just started five women to become distributors of Avila

Natural with no funds paid. The bulk of our distributors are women and I’ve watched them grow from the little funds they

had to become millionaires in the space of one year!

8

S T Y L E & d E S i g n THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019

Follow the Nigerian elections of 2019www.arise.tv

41644519

#arise&votearise neWs ancHors// fronT roW L-r: iDia aisen; oji okpe Back roW L-r: moDeLe sHarafa yusuf; oLaniyi oyeLoWo; aron akerejoLa; vicToria peppL e; nDee amaugo; maercy ajisafe; aDesuWa omoruan, reuBen aBaTi; veronica oDeka

2019

Africa’s leading fashion show platform, ARISE FASHION WEEK produced by THISDAY Media group, is set to take place this year, April 19th-22nd, 2019 at the Lagos Intercontinental hotel. The show promises to be just as fulfilling and innovative as the last one if not more. Selected designers showcasing in their varying categories were chosen with this in mind. As the bar has been raised even higher this time around, our choice of designers were determined by the quality, aesthetics and vision of their collection. Expect to see riveting designs, out-of-the-world creations, not to mention the versatility and uniqueness that will stun audiences worldwide. Out of 1,700 entries for the LMVH Prize, two of our designers who participated in the last ARISE FASHION WEEK, Kenneth Ize and Thebe Magugu, are amongst the eight finalists! This platform gave them the exposure they needed to get noticed and they were. This is how far and wide the outreach of showcasing in ARISE FASHION WEEK is. We are keeping our fingers crossed that one of them wins the coveted prize. The opportunities and great global awareness for them are limitless.

ARISE FASHION WEEK ISHERE AGAIN!

The dates for casting of models will be announced shortly

NIGERIAN DESIGNERS

Odio MimonetItuen BasiLDATiffany AmberNkwoMai AtafoBridget Awosika

Deola SagoeOkunorenAndrea IyamahTzarStyle TempleTurfahTokyo JamesGozel GreenClan (P)

Bumi KokoTorloweiYutee Rone

AFRICAN DESIGNERS

ChulaapKenneth IzeMaison ARTCRich Minsi

Thebe MaguguMowalola

INTERNATIONALDESIGNERS

ParadisAhluwalia StudioAsiaAshi Studio

DESIGNERS ON THE RUNWAY

FASHION WEEKAPRIL 19TH - 22ND, 2019

T H E M O S T B E A U T I F U L R U N W A Y I N A F R I C A !

Bethany WilliamsU.Mi-1Esterban CortazarPyer MossRobin CavalliPost ImperialShem Paronelli

C O V E R C O V E R

14 15

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019

THisDay style

I love and admire my

mother for her strength,

her selflessness, her

empathy, her intuition, her

kindness, her wisdom, her

grace... the list goes on. I love

how unconditionally she

loves!! She has shaped and will

continue to shape my entire

life. She molded me into the

woman that I am today.

I am everything that

I am because of her

COMMITMENT to being

the best mother. She is

the perfect example every

woman needs to emulate.

So on this very day I wish her

a Happy Mother’s Day and I

thank her from the bottom

of my heart for being a

wonderful mother to myself

and my siblings.

MUMMY I LOVE YOU,

MUMMY WE LOVE YOU.

ABISOLA KOLA-DAISI

Being a mom is like no other job in the world. This particular job goes on forever without a minute’s break. Unlike a typical 8-to-5 job, motherhood is a “career” often motivated by pure, unwavering love and unimaginable sacrifices. While she’s responsible for so much, often it may feel as if she goes unappreciated, or at least under-appreciated even though that really isn’t the case. This is the reason why there is a day singled out to honour this special woman in our lives – Mothers Day. This week, we join the rest of the world in doing just that by featuring four of our favourite celebrities who have penned down special tributes to their mothers.

For our dear esteemed readers, we ask that you all also use this opportunity to reach out to all the mothers in your lives and remind them of how loved and appreciated they are.

MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION

Dear Mom, As Mother’s Day approaches, I think about the woman you are and the mother you are, and I

am filled with the deepest sense of gratitude for all the sacrifices, love and commitment you showed my brother and I.

Growing up, you were my super hero! A woman I looked up to! From your funky hair styles to your clothes, to your friends, to the milestones you achieved; from watching you in the news, or you coming home to announce a new project (USA 94 to Isaac Hayes in Lagos to Nigeria Airways Marketing Programs) or from reading about you in the newspaper. I just wanted to be like you! Today I can say “Momma I made it”.

Being a single mom and taking care of my brother and I, I wonder how you did it. We never missed holidays, we had everything we wanted, we had the best of education and you instilled in us the value of hard work and independence.

I have never met anyone as hard working as you. So, I understand when you call me from time to time to tell me to ‘slow down’ because I know you see yourself in me. Ha ha! I am my mother’s daughter, what did you expect?

I want to thank you for so much. I thank you for your love and kindness, I thank you for putting up with me as a rebellious teen (How on earth did you deal with that? I am sorry!), I thank you for always being there for us and I thank you for filling in for my dad when he couldn’t be there.

I thank you for all the adventures and experiences. Oh man! We had adventures! Everything with you was always excitement and adventure! My brother and I had such an amazing childhood!

I thank you for exposing me to your work, I have mastered the art of Communications just like you! To watch and learn a craft from a young age is so amazing! Thank you.

I thank you for allowing me to make my own decisions and being there for me every time I made mistakes. I thank you for sound education and the values and morals you instilled in us.

When I am in trouble you are the first person that comes to mind because I know you will ride for me. When I need advice, I run to you first because I know you will not stir me wrong. Thank you! I feel spoiled knowing that

I have you and that I will always have you. As I have become a mother, I use a lot of

your parenting skills. The reward system, the emphasis on being a good citizen, and the importance of education. I pray I am half the mother you were to me. I think I am doing a good job so far and with HIS grace, I will be a great mom too. I thank you for the love you show my children, they love their “Nana” so much and I thank you for still being there for me to this very day.

Thanks mom! Seriously. It couldn’t have been easy. I am just so happy that you are proud of Femi and I. All your hard labour did not go to waste. We are the product of your love and sacrifices. I love you mom!

BUKKI KARIBI WHYTE

My Mother is my mentor, my role model, my

counsellor, my confidant,

my personal diary, my gist

partner and my best friend.

My mother is my pillar

of strength and support,

she’s always there to pick

me up when I fall, being an

only child and a woman, I

grew up having my mom as

the only constant support in

every stage of my life. I have

learnt all that I know about parenting

and care giving from my mom, she has the

kindest and the warmest heart.

If I did not have the love and support that she

gave me throughout the years, I would not be

the woman that I am today.

‘When I’m lost or overwhelmed with life’s

challenges, you are there for me like a solid rock.

When I’m weak and weary, and forget who I am,

you are always there to remind me. You are my

biggest supporter. The President of my Fan Club.

You are the most amazing mother in the world

and I get to call you mine, I am beyond lucky!

Every child deserves a ‘Queen’ in their life but I

have you as mine, what else can anyone ask for?

You are so special to me.

Thank you for everything you have done and

continue to do for me. If I had the opportunity I’d

pick you a thousand times over.

Everyday I am grateful and I thank God for the

privilege to call you my mother.

I love you mom and I forever will.

Happy Mother’s Day Mama!

From the proudest daughter in the world!’

ELOHOR AISIEN

I’m always looking for ways to say thank you to my mum for the

sacrifices she made for my siblings and I. People

may say ‘Oh it’s her job as a parent’ but my mum

wasn’t just a parent to her own kids. Selfless and

the most graceful woman

I’ve ever met, soft spoken

with her shy laughter ‘SHE

IS’ a Queen because her soul is ROYALTY.

WAJE

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As we continue to celebrate women this month of March, this week we celebrate some influential women who have shaped the history of Nigeria. We looks at the stories of these enigmatic amazons who have made their marks in Nigeria history books by taking bold steps to fight for the legacy of what they believed in against all odds. Some paid the price with their lives which they put on the table to fight for justice and the cause they so fervently believed in. They were not afraid to put themselves on the firing line to let their voices be heard. Even at a time when women were relegated to the background, they took a stand and pushed themselves forward to be counted when it came to fighting for democracy and abolishing things that were done to suppress women or mankind for that matter. Theirs is an inspirational journey for the generation behind to follow. It is not today women became crusaders. Such journeys have always been there from time immemorial. Strong women have always existed and will continue to do so as long as our voices can be heard and our messages received and comprehended.

Shrewd and ambitious business tycoon, Efunporoye Osuntinubu Olumosa popularly referred to, as Madam

Tinubu is a great Nigerian activist. She lived between 1810 and 1887 and today, a massive statue of her stands

proudly at the Tinubu square in Lagos. The life of this powerful Yoruba slave trader and political

activist is both shamed and celebrated but more than often celebrated because without her, the slave trade

in Badagry may never have been abolished. Born into a tradition where postcolonial slavery was prevalent, Madam

Tinubu continued in local slave trading and extended her prowess into tobacco and salt wielding economic and political

powers in Abeokuta, Lagos and across West Africa with the influence of her husband, King Adele. Later she became an

advocate for the abolition of the colonial slave trade after realising the torture and sufferings that slaves went through. She then became a staunch advocate against British rule and was exiled. Her

exile was because she had secretly organised a plot to remove British Consul Benjamin Campell in 1856 but was confronted and escorted out of Lagos at gunpoint. She moved to Abeokuta where she

traded in firearms and gunpowder being a major supplier during the war against Dahomey. Through her political influence and power, Madam Efunroye was able to get many traditional rulers including

Oba Akintoye to sign documents that ended Africans selling other Africans to the Europeans.

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was a leading activist during Nigerian women’s anti-colonial struggles. She was one of the first women to attend Abeokuta Grammar School in 1914, where she would go on to teach.

In 1919 she left for Wincham Hall School for Girls, Cheshire, England, to pursue her studies. She return to Nigeria in 1922 and soon became associated with some of the most important anti-colonial educational movements in Nigeria and West Africa where she fought tirelessly to further women’s access to education and political

representation.She founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union, one of the most impressive women’s

organizations of the 20th century (with a membership estimated to have reached up to 20,000 women), which fought to protect and further the rights of women. Her

unwavering commitment to cooperation, solidarity and unity led her to play an active role in politics, notably in the pre-independence constitutional negotiations of 1946 where

under her leadership, the women of the Egba Land campaigned against their arbitrary taxation and that struggle led to the abdication of the high king Oba Ademola II in 1949.

Kuti was the mother of the Nigerian activists FelaAnikulapo Kuti, a musician; Beko Ransome-Kuti, a doctor; and Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, a doctor and Health minister. She was also

grandmother to musicians Seun Kuti and Femi Kuti. She is highly regarded in Nigeria for her notable acts as an African woman.

The kingdom of Benin(in present-day Nigeria) was plunged into a state of turmoil at the end of the fifteenth century when the Oba

(king) Ozolua died and left two powerful sons to dispute succession. His son Esigie controlled Benin City, while another son, Arhuaran,

was based in the equally important city of Udo about twenty miles away. The ensuing civil war severely compromised Benin’s status as

a regional power and undermined Benin City’s place at the political and cultural center of the kingdom. Exploiting this weakness, the

neighboring Igala peoples sent warriors across the Benue River to wrest control of Benin’s northern territories. Esigie ultimately defeated his

brother and conquered the Igala, reestablishing the unity and military strength of the kingdom. His mother Idia received much of the credit for

these victories as her political counsel, together with her mystical powers and medicinal knowledge, were viewed as critical elements of Esigie’s

success on the battlefield. To reward and honor her, Esigie created a new position within the court called the Iyoba, or Queen Mother, which gave

her significant political privileges, including a separate residence with its own staff.

As mother of the king, Idia and later Iyobas wielded considerable power. Until recent times, the Queen Mother, who bore the oba’s first son, had no

other children and devoted her life to raising the future ruler of the kingdom, a role she was destined to play even before her own birth. Queen Mothers

were therefore viewed as instrumental to the protection and well-being of the Oba and, by extension, the kingdom. Indeed, Obas wore carved ivory pendant masks representing the Iyoba during ceremonies designed to rid the kingdom of

malevolent spiritual forces. An especially fine example of such masks in the Metropolitan Museum’s collection dates from the sixteenth century and is believed to depict Idia herself.

Two vertical bars of inlaid iron between the eyes allude to medicine-filled incisions that were one source of Idia’s metaphysical power. Within the court, the Queen Mother’s political status was equal to that of a senior chief, and she enjoyed the right to commission precious works of art for personal and devotional use.

Born in Creek town, Calabar, Margaret was Nigeria’s women rights activist, social mobiliser and a pioneering female politician in the First Republic. An era of male-dominated movements towards indepence, Ekpo was able to play major roles as a politician in the Eastern part of Nigeria, Aba. She became a pioneer of female politics where she gathered women and encouraged them to protect their interests by taking part in the political advancement of the nation.

She married doctor, John Udo Ekpo, who was a civil servant. Margaret Ekpo’s determination to educate herself motivated her to obtain a degree in domestic economics at the Rathmine School of Domestic Econimics in Dublin, Ireland, in 1948. Margaret Ekpo’s first direct involvement in political association was in 1945, when she attended meetings in place of her husband because he was a civil servant who could not attend meetings to discuss the colonial administrators’ unfair treatment of indigenous Nigerian doctors.

Margaret decided to encourage the participation of the women folk in Aba as she was the only woman at political meetings organised to discuss the discriminatory practices of the colonial administration and to fight cultural and racial imbalance in administrative

promotions. She wanted more women to become members of the Aba Market Women Association, so that she could pass on information from her meetings to them, but their husbands would not let them. Fortunately for her, after World War II, there was a general scarcity of salt and with this, Margaret went round the shops and deposited money for all available bags of salt, giving her control of its sales. She ordered that any woman who was not a member of the association should not be sold to. With no choice, all the men released their women to register. She used the association to promote women unity and a platform to fight for the economic rights of women, protections and expansionary political rights of women.

MADAM TINUBU

1805-1887 (82 yeArs)

Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh was a great Nigerian physician who sacrificed her life to prevent the spread of Ebola virus in Nigeria in 2014. She prevented the spread of Ebola virus which could have killed thousands Nigerians by ensuring an Ebola victim from Liberia did not leave the confines of the hospital she worked in. At such high risk, she sacrificed herself by staying within the confines of the highly contagious disease, to which she paid the ultimate price, her death. This act alone, saved thousands of lives of Nigerians who will no doubt, have been affected, had she released the said culprit who died just a few days after his arrival. Adadevoh, and some other staff of the hospital, exposed to this virus, died as a result of their brave acts.

Born in October 1956, Adadevoh graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the University of Lagos College of Medicine at age of 24. She undertook a Fellowship in Endocrinology at Hammersmith Hospital of the Imperial College in London, United Kingdom from 1991 to 1993 and worked at the First Consultants Medical Centre in Obalende, Lagos, where she was the Lead Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist, for 21 years. Her heroic efforts that prevented a major outbreak in the most populous African country served as the catalyst for successful government action to contain the spread of Ebola in a country of more than 190 million people.

AMEYO ADADEVOH

FUNMILAYO RANSOME KUTI

MAGARET EKPO

QUEEN IDIA

1956-2014 (58 yeArs)

1900-1978 (78 yeArs)

1914-2006 (98 yeArs)

15Ad

HISTORY OF NIGERIA

HEROINESWHO SHAPED THE

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THisDay style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019

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Florence Nwanzuruahu Nkiru Nwapa was a Nigerian author best known as Flora Nwapa. Her novel Efuru (1966) is among the first English-language novels by a woman from Africa.

Nwapa, born in Oguta, was the forerunner to a generation of African women writers. While never considering herself a feminist, she is best known for recreating life and traditions from a woman’s viewpoint. In 1966 her book Efuru became Africa’s first internationally published female novel in the English language (Heinemann Educational Books). She has been called the mother of modern African literature. Later she went on to become the first African woman publisher of novels when she founded Tata Press.

She also is known for her governmental work in reconstruction after the BiafranWar. In particular she worked with orphans and refugees that where displaced during the war. Further she worked as a publisher of African literature and promoted women in African society. Flora Nwapa died on 16 October 1993 in Enugu, Nigeria.

Born Hajaratu Amarteifo to a Ghanaian father and Nupe mother on February 15, 1933, in present-day Niger State, Sawabawas the fifth child of her parents. Being orphaned at a young age forced her to drop out of school and by the time she was 13 years old, she was already married off to a World War II veteran Abubakar Bello.

At age 17, Hajia Sawaba had already become politically active and used her membership of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) to campaign against under-aged marriages, forced labour and also advocated for Western education.

With mentorship provided by Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Sawaba became a driving force for northern women liberation and was a guest of security agencies for her views, which raged against the prevailing values of northern Nigeria in those days. Hajia Sawaba died in October 2001.

Alhaja Kudirat Abiola will always be remembered for how she fought fearlessly for Nigeria’s democracy. Born in 1951 in Zaria, she attended Muslims Girls High School,

Ijebu Ode and married late Chief Moshood Abiola at the age of 18. She was the second of his four wives. Her journey into politics began when her husband declared his

intentions to contest as the president of Nigeria. She supported her husband through advocacy and activism.She led the fight for her husband’s release and the restoration of his mandate.

On the 4th of June, 1996, Alhaja Kudiratwas attacked and murdered in her car by unknown gunmen, along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Her murder case is said to be one of

the longest criminal trial in the Nigeria’s history,

FLORA NWAPA

GAMBO SAWABA

KUDIRAT ABIOLA

Amina was born around 1533 in Zaria, a province in today’s Nigeria. She was the daughter of Bakwa of Turunku.

Their family’s wealth was derived from the trade of leather goods, cloth, kola, salt, horses and imported metals.When Bakwa died in 1566, the crown of Zazzua passed to Amina’s younger brother, Karama.

Their sister, Zaria, fled the region and little is known about her.Although Bakwa’s reign was known for peace and prosperity, Amina chose to hone her

military skills from the warriors of the Zazzau military. As a result, she emerged as leader of the Zazzua cavalry. Many accolades, great wealth, and increased power resulted from her numerous

military achievements.When her brother Karama died after a ten-year rule, Amina had matured into a fierce warrior and

had earned the respect of the Zazzau military and she assumed the reign of the kingdom.

QUEEN AMINA

1933-1610 (77 yeArs)

1931-1993 (62 yeArs)

1951-1996 (45 yeArs)

1933-2001 (68 yeArs)

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJi

CuSHION A shape that works really well

on the hand, the cushion cut is a ro-mantic, gentle shape. Not quite square with a touch of classic, it is increasingly

popular for brides looking for something different to a traditional round brilliant cut

diamond.

EMERALd A renowned Art Deco inspired choice for a diamond shape, an

emerald cut is a timeless choice for contemporary brides who wish to have

a clean lined, classic ring. Emerald shape is very popular, whereas in the past a princess

and radiant cut have been more so.

OVAL Oval diamonds are an el-

egant choice for brides who want something unique and contemporary

for their engagement ring. As one of the most popular styles of 2018, this shape will

continue to be a favourite this year, as it suits most hand shapes.

PEAR Pear Diamonds are

increasing in popularity due to their exceptional shape that can

showcase the individual style and per-sonality of the wearer. 2018 saw a num-

ber of celebrities embrace pear diamonds for their own personal engagement rings,

meaning there has been an uplift in interest in the shape. Pear shape also has a large spread, which means that a 2 carat will appear larger than a 2 carat in a cushion cut, which can be

quite deep

ROuNd 2019 is the year of the tradi-

tional round diamond ring. More and more brides are looking for large

sizes with intricate touches and person-alisation. The round diamond has longevity

and is a classical style.

THE ENGAGEMENT RING SHAPE Whether you’re seriously shopping, hinting to your s.O. or just looking for fun, there’s never a wrong time to browse through engagement rings. regardless of your choice of clothing style (minimalist? maximalist?) there’s something about picking an engagement ring that transcends trends and even styles. A diamond ring is perhaps one of the most timeless and elegant pieces of jewellery a woman can own, so ensuring your engagement ring is something you’ll love forever isn’t hard when you go with a classic diamond design. But as all things in the world of fashion and jewellery, there are always going to be more popular styles than others as the years go on - so choose wisely.

Here are the five shapes that will take centre stage in 2019, but remember to keep it classy.

for 2019

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THe sTapLe Denim

The staple blue jean literally goes with

everything, but be sure to get the fit and wash

just right for maximum versatility. Pair it with anything from a plain

white tee to a nice fitted blazer for a

clean look.

...every man needs!

Style Essentials What makes something ‘essential’ in fashion? When, without it, your outfit is dull, and a lot harder to put together in the morning. Anyway, that’s what contemporary style is all about: a mix of on-trend, statement picks and classic easy pieces - those pioneered by fashion’s forefathers, for

a look that’s refined yet effortless. Feeling a little fashion muddled? Lay a strong foundation with these men’s style essentials:

THe WHiTe sHirT

Whether you’re the corporate guy or more the creative type, the

white button-down shirt is a weekday workplace

essential to own. Enough said.

THe BLaZer

The blazer is one of the hardest style classics for men

to buy, but worth the fight when you get it right. Decide on a neutral colour - think navy, grey or black -

and then focus on the fit. You want the jacket to cut squarely on the shoulder and follow the natural drape of the torso right down

to the waist.

THe casuaL jackeT

From bomber to biker, baseball to trucker, the casual

jacket comes in many styles (why just pick one?). The fit is important: roomy

enough to layer a tee shirt underneath, but snug on the shoulder and cut close

to the hip. Invest in a jacket that can flow between refined and relaxed.

Pair with denim jeans and boots, and you are

good to go.

THe Dress sHoe

Leather dress shoes are a formal essential, but they

need not be boring. Wear black shoes with all types of tailoring, a two-piece suit or blazer-chino

combo, and even jeans. Have fun with sock colour or prints

too, injecting personal style into your look.

THe WHiTe TrainersDrop everything if

you don’t yet own a pair of white sneakers. Basically, the

sneaker is perfect for any occasion: a summertime shorts-and-t-shirt

combo, or something smarter involving chinos and a collared shirt.

You can also try pairing a low-cut white sneaker with relaxed suiting for a tailored look

that’s effortlessly stylish.

THe T-sHirT

A man’s best (casual) friend is the basic t-shirt.

Plain and print free, the style and brand options are endless, so focus on the cotton quality (pure

cotton is best) and then look to the fit and finish of the t-shirt.

Try tucking in the slim-fit tee for a neat finish with pants or

simply slip it on with blue jeans and white

sneakers.

EFE TOmmY ADABAmUiGEE OKAFOR

ADEBAYO OKE LAWAL

NiCO SUAvE

EBUKA UCHENDU

GABRiEL AKiNOSHO

TimiNi EGBUSON

By konye cHeLsea nWaBogor

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S T Y L E & d E S i g n S T Y L E & d E S i g nTHISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019