Fashion & Beauty
Rukky Ladoja & Ozzy Etomi
Fashion & Beauty
Rukky Ladoja & Ozzy Etomi
Fashion & Beauty
Rukky Ladoja and Ozzy Etomi have successfully positioned Dye Lab as a pioneer in Nigeria’s sustainable fashion space, offering a contemporary approach to traditional designs that appeal to modern audiences.
Dye Lab is a Nigerian fashion brand blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Focused on sustainability and cultural preservation, the brand uses hand-dyed fabrics to create flowing kaftans and slip dresses with a minimalist, functional aesthetic. With a zero-waste production ethos and a commitment to empowering local artisans, Dye Lab has gained a dedicated following both locally and internationally, collaborating with high-profile individuals like Anya Hindmarch. Rukky Ladoja, a seasoned fashion entrepreneur, co-founded Dye Lab during the pandemic after years in the industry with her previous brand, Grey Projects, and consultancy work for Lagos Fashion Week. Leveraging her expertise in strategy and production, she built Dye Lab as a sustainable alternative, showcasing the richness of Yoruba dyeing traditions while addressing challenges in Nigeria’s supply chain.
Ozzy Etomi, the brand’s Commercial and Brand Director, brings over a decade of experience in communications and strategy. Her work with companies like Mastercard and Pagatech has been instrumental in Dye Lab’s growth, enabling collaborations and expanding the brand’s presence on the global fashion stage.
Chidimma Adetshina
Fashion & Beauty
Chidimma Adetshina
Fashion & Beauty
Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina made history as Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, becoming the First Runner-Up at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico—the highest placement ever for Nigeria. Born to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother in Soweto, South Africa, Adetshina’s journey reflects resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Despite facing scrutiny over her dual citizenship during the Miss South Africa pageant, she remained steadfast, earning support as a symbol of inclusivity. After her South African identity papers were revoked, she embraced her Nigerian heritage and represented Taraba State to win the national title.
Adetshina’s success at Miss Universe highlights her ability to rise above challenges, advocate for cultural representation, and inspire others with her grace and strength. Now focused on her law career, she leaves a lasting legacy of resilience and achievement.
Veekee James
Fashion & Beauty
Veekee James
Fashion & Beauty
Ruth Erikan James, popularly known as Veekee James, is a Nigerian fashion designer, entrepreneur, and gospel artist celebrated for her ability to craft designs that accentuate the feminine silhouette. Founder of the Veekee James fashion brand, she has become a leading name in Nigeria’s fashion industry, gaining recognition for her signature style that combines intricate beadwork, luxurious fabrics, and sculpted tailoring. In 2021, she won the AMVCA Best Designer Award, a testament to her creativity and influence.
Despite leaving her biochemistry degree at the University of Uyo to pursue her passion, she has successfully established a fashion empire that includes Veekee James Man, a menswear line, and Shoprikan, a women’s fashion outlet. Her designs have graced celebrities like Bonang Matheba, Sharon Ooja, and Osas Ighodaro, whose stunning AMVCA gowns highlighted Veekee’s talent for blending artistry with functionality. Veekee continues to push boundaries in design and creativity.
Tobi Adeleye & Christopher Afolabi (Severe Nature)
Fashion & Beauty
Tobi Adeleye & Christopher Afolabi (Severe Nature)
Fashion & Beauty
Founded in 2012 by Oneme Ahonaruogho, Christopher Afolabi, and the late Michael Atobalele (Uzii), Severe Nature has emerged as a trailblazer in the Nigerian streetwear scene. Originally launched in Canada, the brand quickly gained traction in a market familiar with urban fashion. By 2016, recognizing the lack of locally-made streetwear in Nigeria, Severe Nature expanded its presence to the founders’ home country. The brand’s unique offering of expressive designs, ranging from hoodies and tracksuits to denim and accessories, was warmly embraced by Nigerian consumers who sought high-quality, locally-produced urban wear.
The founders’ commitment to culture also extends beyond fashion. Through initiatives like My Nature, which provides platforms for emerging artists, and sponsorships of BMX events and jam sessions, Severe Nature invests deeply in the creative community. Their collaboration with Guinness Nigeria for the “Black Shines Brightest Campaign” further cements their role as cultural innovators.
Iretidayo Zaccheus
Fashion & Beauty
Iretidayo Zaccheus
Fashion & Beauty
Iretidayo Zaccheus is a British-Nigerian fashion entrepreneur championing African streetwear on the global stage. As the founder of Street Souk, Africa’s largest streetwear convention held annually in Lagos since 2018, she has redefined urban fashion in Nigeria and beyond.
Inspired by her mother’s influence in fashion and her love for streetwear, Iretidayo created a platform that celebrates creativity and connects street wear enthusiasts with designers, brands, and artists. Co-signed by the late Virgil Abloh, Street Souk has become a cornerstone of Africa’s burgeoning streetwear culture.
A graduate of the University of Manchester with a degree in International Business Finance and Economics, and a master’s in Marketing Strategy and Innovation from Cass Business School, London, Iretidayo combines business acumen with creativity. Her innovative approach has expanded Street Souk into cities like Accra, Cape Town, London, and Los Angeles.
Joycee Awosika
Fashion & Beauty
Joycee Awosika
Fashion & Beauty
Joycee Awosika is the founder of ORÍKÌ Group, a leading agro-beauty and wellness brand that transforms Africa’s natural resources into world-class skincare and grooming products. With six luxury spas, a farm-to-skin product line, a wellness training institute, and the UNWIND app offering on-demand services, ORÍKÌ has defined its position in democratizing wellness across Africa.
Before ORÍKÌ, Joycee worked in Nigeria’s energy sector, contributing to renewable energy policies and privatization efforts as a consultant to the Federal Ministry of Power. Her passion for impact also led her to the World Economic Forum Global Shapers Community, where she spearheaded youth employability and entrepreneurship initiatives.
In November, she partnered with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) and the United States African Development Foundation (USADF), to open a wellness hub designed specifically for wellness entrepreneurs, which is part of a larger initiative to enhance youth employability across various sectors in Lagos. Her work with ORÍKÌ has garnered numerous accolades and a fellowship at the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Program.
Tolu Coker
Fashion & Beauty
Tolu Coker
Fashion & Beauty
Tolu Coker, a Nigerian-British fashion designer and multidisciplinary artist, has made significant strides in the global fashion industry with her innovative designs and compelling storytelling. A graduate of Central Saint Martins with a degree in Fashion Design and Textile Print, she has become a recognized voice in sustainable and inclusive fashion.
Coker’s brand, launched in 2018, fuses contemporary design with deep cultural narratives, honoring both her British-Nigerian heritage and global influences. In 2024, Coker’s Autumn-Winter collection gained widespread acclaim, and was worn by celebrities including Ariana Grande and Tems.
Beyond aesthetics, Coker’s work often reflects profound storytelling. Her collection Soro Soke: Diaspora 68, showcased at Woven Threads, paid tribute to the End SARS movement and explored the untold stories of British Nigerians, inspired by her late father’s activism and photojournalism. This focus on culture and sustainability highlights her commitment to honoring history while addressing contemporary issues in fashion.
Banke Kuku
Fashion & Beauty
Banke Kuku
Fashion & Beauty
Banke Kuku, the founder and creative force behind the Banke Kuku brand, has made a name for herself by blending contemporary design with African textile. Educated at Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Art and Design, she honed her craft working with top international brands like Burberry and Designers Guild before establishing her own label in 2011. Banke’s work seamlessly transitions from vibrant loungewear and kaftans to intricate home furnishings, celebrated globally by retailers like Selfridges and Galeries Lafayette.
Notable collaborations include her partnership with Gabrielle Union for the actress’s 50th birthday. Banke’s commitment to storytelling extends beyond fashion into advocacy, as seen in her marine-inspired Oceans collection, which raises awareness about ocean conservation through visually arresting prints featuring coral reefs and marine life.
Since debuting at Lagos Fashion Week in 2021, Banke has built a loyal community, affectionately known as the Kukutribe, who resonate with her style. With her Lagos boutique as a hub, she has expanded her influence by merging sustainability with luxury fashion, presenting a compelling case for environmentally conscious design.
Joy Akhigbe
Fashion & Beauty
Joy Akhigbe
Fashion & Beauty
At only 20 years old, Joy Akhigbe is a dynamic force in the Nigerian fashion scene, seamlessly blending her modeling career with her passion for design. As the face of prominent brands like Oya Abeo, Severe Nature, Omaricode Beauty, and more, she has become a recognized figure in fashion campaigns. However, Joy’s journey extends beyond modeling—she is also the founder of Kuwaj, a fashion brand that celebrates individuality and body positivity.
Founded in 2021 when Joy was just 17, Kuwaj aims to challenge societal norms around women’s fashion. The brand’s debut Panache Collection showcased vibrant, body-conscious designs crafted from luxurious fabrics, reflecting Joy’s vision of confidence and self-expression. Joy emphasizes that Kuwaj is about creating clothing that empowers women to embrace their bodies and personalities, defying rigid standards of beauty.
Through her evolving fashion sensibilities and storytelling on social media, Joy continues to inspire others to embrace their unique journeys. As a model, entrepreneur, and trailblazer, she represents a new wave of young creatives reshaping Nigeria’s fashion narrative.
Dahmola
Fashion & Beauty
Dahmola
Fashion & Beauty
Dahmola has solidified his place as one of Nigeria’s leading fashion stylists, renowned for his impeccable work and ability to create show-stopping looks. With a rich background in costume design and personal styling, Dahmola has shaped the fashion narratives of top celebrities, including Toke Makinwa, Sharon Ooja, Bonang Matheba, Simi, and Taymesan.
His journey began in 2012 as an intern for Arise Fashion Week, where he honed his skills under the mentorship of Bolaji Animashaun. Starting as a costume designer for iconic productions like Skinny Girl in Transit and Flawsome, Dahmola transitioned into personal styling, with Sharon Ooja as his first major client. Through her, he connected with Toke Makinwa, becoming the creative force behind her standout appearances on BBNaija S9: The Buzz.
Dahmola’s career highlights include styling Bonang Matheba for Miss South Africa, Sharon Ooja’s viral metallic Gele wedding look, and Toke Makinwa’s iconic AMVCA 2022 outfit. With his innovative approach, Dahmola continues to redefine fashion in Nigeria, creating trends and inspiring the next generation of stylists.
Entrepreneurship
Oluwatobi Ajayi
Entrepreneurs
Oluwatobi Ajayi
Entrepreneurs
Oluwatobi Ajayi is the founder and CEO of Nord Automobiles Limited, a Nigerian auto brand redefining Africa’s automobile industry. His early experience at Mercedes-Benz Nigeria was a successful start, where he managed the Van Division and grew its market share from less than 1% to 7% in 3 years. Recognized with the 2013 Mercedes-Benz Best Sales Performance for Africa award, Ajayi’s passion for automotive excellence was always clear.
In 2015, he co-founded Jetvan Automobiles Limited, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer, serving as CEO until 2018. Driven by the belief that Africans could create world-class vehicles, he established Nord Automobiles. Today, Nord assembles durable, elegant, and cost-efficient vehicles, valued at over ₦4.2 billion.
Eno Obong Ekpro
Entrepreneurs
Eno Obong Ekpro
Entrepreneurs
Eno Obong Ekpro is the founder of Salamanca Tequila, a premium tequila brand that bridges the cultures of Nigeria and Mexico. Inspired by a dream to create a world-class spirit for Nigeria and the African continent, Eno went to Jalisco, Mexico, where he mastered the art of tequila production in order to bring his vision to life.
Salamanca’s distinctive bottle design, inspired by hidden caves and agave fields, has earned international recognition. Driven by a mission to elevate Nigeria’s taste for premium spirits, Salamanca Tequila offers exceptional quality while remaining accessible to a broader audience. Under Eno’s leadership, the brand is setting new standards for innovation in Nigeria’s alcohol industry.
Adetoro Fowoshere
Entrepreneurs
Adetoro Fowoshere
Entrepreneurs
Adetoro Fowoshere is a multifaceted entrepreneur with over a decade of expertise in aviation, maritime, logistics, and entertainment. As CEO of Hudson Bay Holding Ltd, she oversees diverse operations spanning aviation, real estate, and special projects. Her leadership secured an air transportation license for seamless passenger and cargo travel, showcasing her strategic acumen.
In the entertainment industry, Adetoro’s Toro Entertainment Company is a driving force in Nigeria’s live music scene. Known for producing unforgettable Afrobeats concerts, she has delivered landmark shows, including Olamide Live in Concert (OLIC), Davido Live, Burna Boy Live, and Wiz on the Beach. Toro Entertainment has been a force behind sold-out shows from Adekunle Gold, Shallipopi, BNXN, and Seyi Vibez.
Adetoro’s background in infrastructure development is equally impressive. She was pivotal in managing the concession of Terminals C and D at the Apapa Ports Complex, one of West Africa’s largest terminals, and played key roles in power and dockyard projects. She has undoubtedly perfected her versatility and reach across industries.
Ijeoma Balogun
Entrepreneurs
Ijeoma Balogun
Entrepreneurs
Ijeoma Balogun is the founder of Redrick Public Relations, a Lagos-based agency that designs integrated campaigns for brands like L’Oreal Luxe, Moet Hennessy Nigeria, and NBA Nigeria. Since its inception in 2012, Redrick has become a leading firm for consumer, tech, and lifestyle enterprises across Africa.
Balogun also champions social impact through initiatives like the Redrick Accelerate Workshops, offering free skills training to aspiring media professionals. Her decade-long career in communications includes collaborations with Heineken Lagos Fashion Week and securing over 100 million media impressions for the platform, showcasing her ability to elevate African brands on global stages.
Folusho Ogunwale
Entrepreneurs
Folusho Ogunwale
Entrepreneurs
Folusho Ogunwale is the visionary behind i-Fitness, Nigeria’s first fitness chain. Established in 2015, i-Fitness now operates 24 branches across the country, promoting health and wellness in urban communities.
With a BSc in Accounting from Babcock University and an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London, Folusho gained seven years of experience in sales, marketing, and human resources at Skye Bank Plc. He then founded Premier Impact Ltd, later rebranded as Yes Mobile, a trailblazing electronics retail chain. He scaled the business to an annual turnover of ₦3 billion before its acquisition by Yudala (now Konga) in 2016. Today, he is positioning i-Fitness as a household name in fitness among Nigerians.
Michael Chu’di Ejekam
Entrepreneurs
Michael Chu’di Ejekam
Entrepreneurs
Michael Chu’di Ejekam is a prominent figure in West Africa’s real estate sector, with a career defined by transformative projects and leadership. A Wharton School graduate and recipient of the Howard E. Mitchell Award, Ejekam began his career on Wall Street, managing over $3 billion in transactions with Merrill Lynch before transitioning to real estate investment in New York City.
Returning to Nigeria, he led Actis’ West African real estate division, spearheading over $750 million in retail developments, including the Ikeja City Mall in Lagos and Heritage Place, Nigeria’s first green-certified commercial building. Ejekam is the CEO of Atreos Ltd., a retail investment holding platform behind Bokku Mart, a rapidly expanding chain of discount grocery stores in Lagos, which has grown to new heights in 2024 amid Nigeria’s economic crunch, with inclusive pricing for middle to low class citizens.
Currently on the boards of Gruppo Nigeria Limited and Afrinvest Securities, Ejekam remains a key player in shaping West Africa’s retail and commercial landscape.
Dr. Femi Kuti
Entrepreneurs
Dr. Femi Kuti
Entrepreneurs
Dr. Femi Kuti is a leader in Africa’s healthcare revolution, combining his expertise in medicine, finance, and technology to redefine access to quality healthcare. As CEO and Co-Founder of Reliance Health, Dr. Kuti leads a company dedicated to delivering innovative, affordable healthcare solutions tailored to emerging markets.
After earning his MBChB in Medicine and Surgery from Obafemi Awolowo University, Dr. Kuti began his career as a physician before transitioning into healthcare investment banking at Goldman Sachs. His work there involved advising global healthcare companies across the EMEA region. In 2016, he co-founded Reliance Health, which uses technology to provide seamless healthcare services for individuals and businesses.
Under his leadership, Reliance Health has emerged as a transformative force, serving as both a direct care provider and a next-generation health insurance solution. Dr. Kuti is passionate about bridging infrastructure gaps and fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders to create an equitable healthcare ecosystem.
Uka Eje
Entrepreneurs
Uka Eje
Entrepreneurs
Uka Eje, co-founder and CEO of ThriveAgric, is spearheading a transformation in African agriculture by providing smallholder farmers with innovative tools to overcome longstanding challenges. Founded in 2017, ThriveAgric emerged as a response to inefficiencies in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
Under Uka’s leadership, ThriveAgric has grown into a key player in Africa’s agritech space, empowering over 800,000 farmers across Africa. The company leverages technology to deliver real-time weather forecasts, digital identity verification, and tailored agricultural insights. So far, ThriveAgric has raised $150 million in global funding to support its mission.
In redefining the sector’s potential, Uka has positioned ThriveAgric as a symbol of hope for Africa’s agricultural future.
Segun Olumuyiwa
Entrepreneurs
Segun Olumuyiwa
Entrepreneurs
Segun Olumuyiwa is driving innovation in Nigeria’s logistics sector as the CEO of Bisedge, a leading green logistics company. With a remarkable career spanning finance and strategy, Olumuyiwa has been instrumental in Bisedge’s meteoric rise, growing its revenue from ₦129 million in 2019 to ₦1.3 billion in 2022.
A former CFO at Bisedge and seasoned professional with over seven years at KPMG, Olumuyiwa’s expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, and process design has solidified his reputation as a visionary leader. Since founding Bisedge in 2016, he has championed sustainability and operational excellence, making the company a cornerstone of Nigeria’s green economy.
With a focus on governance, and strategic growth, Segun Olumuyiwa is shaping the future of logistics in Africa, one step at a time.
Ayodeji Balogun
Entrepreneurs
Ayodeji Balogun
Entrepreneurs
Ayodeji Balogun, the Group Chief Executive Officer of AFEX, stands at the forefront of agricultural transformation in Africa. Under his leadership, AFEX has emerged as Nigeria’s first private-sector commodities exchange, revolutionizing how smallholder farmers and agri-SMEs access financial and commodity markets. Ayodeji’s innovative vision leverages technology and finance to boost rural incomes and drive food security, cementing his reputation as a dynamic leader in the sector.
With a foundation in mechanical engineering from Lagos State University and an MBA from Lagos Business School, Ayodeji has cultivated a robust career that integrates his technical and managerial expertise. He began his professional journey with Unilever Nigeria before advancing to Doreo Partners, where he contributed to Nigeria’s Agriculture Transformation Plan. Since joining AFEX in 2014 as Country Manager, Ayodeji has been instrumental in shaping the exchange’s growth, driving revenue increases and connecting farmers to opportunities that improve their livelihoods.
Beyond AFEX, Ayodeji’s influence extends to the National Advisory Board for Impact Investing and the Association of Futures Markets. His dedication to sustainable impact and Africapitalism has earned him a prominent role in reshaping Africa’s agricultural and financial ecosystems.
Art & Photography
Tolani Alli (Photographer to AfDB president)
Art & Photography
Tolani Alli (Photographer to AfDB president)
Art & Photography
The role of Executive Digital Storyteller to the President of the African Development Bank, is one that does not come lightly. Fortunately, Tolani Alli is a seasoned photographer whose portfolio includes documenting the lives of prominent world leaders and international organizations, including former Vice President, Prof Yemi Osibanjo and the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. Her dedication to capturing moments from the corridors of power, land as public service, as well as source of inspiration to many both within and beyond Nigeria.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig
Art & Photography
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig
Art & Photography
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig is a Nigerian entrepreneur and art collector. She founded ArtX, a cultural management company that organizes ArtX Lagos–a leading international art fair in West Africa. ArtX Lagos has continued to be a platform that showcases contemporary African art, positioning Lagos as a culture hub. This has attracted thousands of art lovers across the globe.
The ninth edition of Art X Lagos, “Promised Lands”, was a success as it paid tribute to African pioneers such as Oladunni Odoguwa and Victoria Iruemi. Additionally, the fair introduced a special award called the Access Art X Prize Alumni Impact Award, celebrating the achievements of past winners who continue to shape the African art landscape. Her dedication to promoting African art and culture continues to create space for artists to know that their work is a valid practice coveted by people around the world.
Fati Abubakar
Art & Photography
Fati Abubakar
Art & Photography
Fati Abubakar is a Nigerian documentary photographer, photojournalist, and public health worker from Maiduguri, Borno State. Her project, “Bits of Borno” documents life in Borno State amidst the Boko Haram insurgency, offering a nuanced glimpse of life within the city. Her work has been recognized on a wide scale in the international photography and journalism communities, as she continues to document the resilience and culture of her community, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the region, which is often shrouded in misinformation.
Dennis Osadebe
Art & Photography
Dennis Osadebe
Art & Photography
Mixed-media artist Dennis Osadebe is known for his vibrant post-pop style which reimagines African heritage through modern expressive imagery. He has made significant contributions to the art world, notably his collaboration with NBA Nigeria on the “NBA meets Art Initiative”.
Osadebe had an exhibition in 2024 in Singapore titled “Uncanny Cuteness: Aesthetic Dynamics and Social Impact in Contemporary Art” which brought a diverse group of artists to explore deeper themes within the context of “cuteness”. His approach challenges conventional notions of African art fostering a dialogue between tradition and innovation.
Bidemi Tata
Art & Photography
Bidemi Tata
Art & Photography
With over six years of creating art professionally, Nigerian multidisciplinary artist Bidemi Tata blends modern surrealism, psychedelic, gothic, and urban contemporary influences into digital art for clients included but not limited to Universal Music Group, Warner Music Africa, Orijin, Spektrum NG, Ruger, Mr.Eazi, Bella Shmurda, YBNL, Psycho YP and Lady Donli. Bidemi Tata continues to explore complex human expressions in a distinct way that immediately leaves an impression on first sight.
Nifemi Marcus-Bello
Art & Photography
Nifemi Marcus-Bello
Art & Photography
Nifemi Marcus-Bello is a Nigerian industrial designer known for his unique approach to design that blends African art with modern aesthetics. He founded Nmbello Studio in 2017, creating furniture, installations, and products that reflect his cultural heritage. His work has earned international recognition, via inclusion in esteemed collections like The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Recognized for his contributions to design, Nifemi won the 2022 Hublot LVMH Design Prize and the 2023 Design Miami Curator’s Choice Award. In 2024, Nifemi was shortlisted for the prestigious Dezeen Awards Emerging Designer of the Year, further cementing his place as a global designer on the rise.
Niyi Okeowo
Art & Photography
Niyi Okeowo
Art & Photography
Niyi Okeowo is a Nigerian multidisciplinary creative whose work spans art direction, graphic design, animation, 3D modeling, and photography. He has collaborated with notable artists such as Rema, Showdemcamp, The Cavemen, Joeboy, Ladipoe, etc, contributing to their visual identities through design and direction. He continues to push creative boundaries and explore new mediums. In 2024, Okeowo was the artistic director for Rema’s 2024 album “Heis” which received local & international acclaim for its intent to push the envelope sonically and visually.
Richie Igunma (scrdofme)
Art & Photography
Richie Igunma (scrdofme)
Art & Photography
Nigerian photographer and creative director Richie Igunma, popularly known as scrdofme is lauded for his artistic stamp on Rema’s visual documentation from very early on in his career. Proceeding to creative direct Rema’s performance at the BRIT Awards, and his homecoming concert in Benin City. He has also worked with high-profile artists like Tyla, Ayra Starr, etc. Igunma has continued to make a name for himself by contributing his signature photographic style and prowess to various culturally moving projects. He co-founded director at Scarytown Ltd, a London-based creative agency, which has expanded his reach in the global creative landscape.
Ken Nwadiogbu
Art & Photography
Ken Nwadiogbu
Art & Photography
Ken Nwadiogbu is a Nigerian multidisciplinary artist known for his hyperrealistic drawings and thought-provoking conceptual works which he terms ‘contemporealism’. Nwadiogbu’s artistic journey has been marked by significant achievements; creating a painting for Netflix inspired by the hit TV series “Top Boy,” his 2024 solo exhibition “Still, The Journey Continues” at Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in London, showcased his latest works that explore themes of identity and resilience. And the Saatchi Gallery featured his work in celebration of the legacy of Andy Warhol in the exhibit “Absolut Warhol: The Other Half.”
Dotun Popoola
Art & Photography
Dotun Popoola
Art & Photography
Dotun Popoola is a renowned “synergetic” metal sculptor whose artistry transforms discarded materials into sculptures that inspire hope and sustainability. Born in Lagos in 1981, he specializes in turning trash into treasures by creating intricate sculptures that repurpose waste and highlight environmental consciousness. Popoola’s works are characterized by their detail and emotional depth, often featuring animal forms crafted from scrap metal.
A graduate of Auchi Polytechnic and Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned degrees in painting and sculpture, Popoola’s innovative artistry has gained international acclaim. His creations have been showcased at prestigious events such as ART X Lagos, Expo2020 Dubai, and the Global Art Festival in India. Representing Nigeria on global platforms, he continues to demonstrate the power of art.
Activism & Advocacy
Deji Adeyanju
Activism & Advocacy
Deji Adeyanju
Activism & Advocacy
Deji Adeyanju is a Nigerian activist, public affairs analyst, and social commentator. His advocacy for democracy and good governance makes him a prominent voice on social issues. He uses his platform to challenge societal injustices, inspiring many to join the fight for a better Nigeria. He achieved significant milestones that showed his commitment to justice and good governance. On March 6, 2024, he was called to the Nigerian Bar, officially becoming a lawyer. In celebration of his 45th birthday, Adeyanju announced that his law firm would award one million naira to three newly called human rights lawyers.
VeryDarkMan
Activism & Advocacy
VeryDarkMan
Activism & Advocacy
Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is a Nigerian activist, critic, and social media influencer. He is well known for his candid critiques of societal issues and public figures. He gained prominence through his outspoken videos on social media platforms, but VDM’s activism have led to several legal challenges. Despite these controversies, VDM’s influence continues to grow, reflecting his significant impact on Nigerian social media discourse.
Pelumi Nubi
Activism & Advocacy
Pelumi Nubi
Activism & Advocacy
Propelled to complete a solo drive from London to Lagos, Pelumi Nubi became the first Black woman to complete this historic milestone. She is a Nigerian-born travel content creator and adventurer who set on an epic journey spanning 68 days and multiple countries. She showcased her resilience, courage, and passion for exploration. Nubi continues to inspire global audiences to embrace adventure and push personal boundaries.
Titilope Adedokun (SisterlyHQ)
Activism & Advocacy
Titilope Adedokun (SisterlyHQ)
Activism & Advocacy
Titilope Adedokun is a leading advocate for gender equality and social justice in Nigeria. She is committed to driving sustainable change as a young leader, impact professional, social entrepreneur, and content creator.
Through Sisterly HQ, she connects Nigerian women with transformative opportunities, training, and inclusive stories using digital tech. She also works at a non-profit providing seed grants to social entrepreneurs fighting poverty.
Her work has been recognised by LinkedIn, the Western Union Foundation, Women Deliver, Vital Voices, and the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund.
Titilope’s platform fosters conversations and action around inclusion, access to opportunities, funding equity, and the creation of safe spaces for women to thrive socio-economically.
Hadiza Galadanci
Activism & Advocacy
Hadiza Galadanci
Activism & Advocacy
Professor Hadiza Shehu Galadanci has risen as a distinguished Nigerian obstetrician and professor. She is known for her groundbreaking work in maternal and child health. With over three decades of experience in the field, she has dedicated her career to improving healthcare outcomes for women, particularly in underserved areas of Nigeria. She continues to advocate for the improvement of maternal and child health outcomes, both within Nigeria and internationally.
Fauzuddeen Mahmud
Activism & Advocacy
Fauzuddeen Mahmud
Activism & Advocacy
Fauzuddeen Mahmud has become a leading voice in advocating for better governance and the empowerment of Nigerian citizens. He is also a Nigerian activist, public commentator, and the founder of platforms like ZamTracka and Vota_ng. His platforms are dedicated to promoting transparency and civic engagement in Nigeria.
Efe Ukala (Impact Her)
Activism & Advocacy
Efe Ukala (Impact Her)
Activism & Advocacy
With a dedication towards women’s empowerment by bridging the financing gap and providing business support. Efe Ukala is a Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder of ImpactHER who makes this their mission. Her goal is to foster economic growth and financial inclusion for women.
Ada Nduka Oyom (SheCodeAfrica)
Activism & Advocacy
Ada Nduka Oyom (SheCodeAfrica)
Activism & Advocacy
SheCodeAfrica is an organization dedicated to empowering African women in technology. Founded by Ada Nduka Oyom, a Nigerian software developer who advocates for gender diversity in tech by providing women with the tools, resources, and community to take their futures in their hands.
Funke Adeoye (Hope Behind Bars)
Activism & Advocacy
Funke Adeoye (Hope Behind Bars)
Activism & Advocacy
Funke Adeoye is a Nigerian lawyer, human rights advocate, and social entrepreneur. As the founder of Hope Behind Bars Africa, she has provided free legal services and support to incarcerated individuals, promoting reforms through research, advocacy, and technology. Her most recent notable accomplishment was receiving the prestigious Waislitz Global Citizen’s Choice Award, accompanied by a $75,000 prize. Her leadership and dedication continue to inspire reforms within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. She has helped in amplifying the voices of the marginalized and fostering access to justice for all.
Dele Farotimi
Activism & Advocacy
Dele Farotimi
Activism & Advocacy
Dele Farotimi is a Nigerian lawyer, author, and political activist renowned for his outspoken advocacy for justice, good governance, and systemic reforms in Nigeria. A former Student Union President at Lagos State University (LASU), Farotimi was called to the bar in 1999 and practiced law until retiring in 2018. He is a founding member of the Citizens’ Rally Against Oppression (RAMINBA) and a vocal critic of Nigeria’s political and social systems.
Farotimi has authored influential books, including Do Not Die in Their War (2019) and Imperatives of the Nigerian Revolution (2021), offering incisive critiques of corruption and systemic challenges in Nigeria. His works and public speeches consistently advocate for a more transparent, equitable Nigeria, inspiring important national conversations about governance and reform.
Through his activism and literary contributions, Farotimi envisions a Nigeria liberated from oppression, driven by accountability, and empowered by justice and equity.
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