THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 21TH FEBRUARY 2021 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

...NOT IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN YOU’RE NOT IN STYLE

FEBRUARY 21,2021 2021 SUNDAY, 21 FEBRUARY

UT H

& RE A SO

I Z O G N I A Z ! L O A A L G E A N W E I W I O J O N J O N K O O K O O T G N I D R O C C A D L R O THE W

! C TR S E R WOOT H

DN NA A T SI N G E B R ITRT E E H ST H A

G N I EIL

CONTENT Fashion 10 MOST EXPENSIVE SHOES IN THE WORLD PG 4

SHOES TO INVEST IN NOW PG 5

CATSUITS PG 6-7

SKIN CARE GUIDE PG 8-9

SUNGLASSES GUIDE PG 9

BEST OF THE 80’S RECYCLED PG10-11

CHIC CLUTCH BAG PG 19

DAY TO NIGHT

To say Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a woman of many firsts is putting it mildly because over the years, she has shattered one glass ceiling after another and continues to do so. She has recently been appointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization. Not only is she the first woman to attain that post, she’s also the first African to do so. ISIOMA USIADE reports...

PG 22

WANNIFUGA CRUISE COLLECTION 2021 PG 21

photo credit : Dr. Ikemba Iweala

THISDAY STYLE FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR RUTH OSIME

08111847085

EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR

08111847086

08111847087

SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 CONTRIBUTORS RUKY SALAKO ISIOMA USIADE GUEST CORRESPONDENTS AZUKA OGUJIUBA ZINA ANUMUDU JOANNA MACGREGOR SEYI ALAWODE PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

In the Nigeria of today, we have so much to complain about. The state of our country, the mindset of our people, the difficulty of living in a harsh climate such as ours and the daily challenges we face as a people. Regardless of all these obstacles, one thing that unites us is our collective sense of pride when one of us has done something phenomenal on the global stage. Notice how when people are given positions in public office, or have excelled in their chosen careers on the global stage, they are celebrated here just because they are ‘Nigerians’ or of Nigerian descent. That some of these people barely know Nigeria or have even stepped into our shores is irrelevant. They are quickly referred to as ‘one of us’ because we are fast to associate ourselves with success on the global stage. So needless to say, when ‘our very own’ Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who previously served in our government, cinched the position of Director General of the World Trade Organization, the whole country went into a frenzy of excitement! More so when it was a hard fought battle between her and her rival, South Korea’s Trade Minister, Yoo Myung-Hee. Though NOI was the favoured candidate, we waited with abated breath for the announcement to be made because her appointment depended heavily on the outcome of America’s elections. Had Donald Trump won, sadly NOI might have lost the race because he did not support her. But the new President, Joe Biden threw his weight behind this favoured candidate, NOI. Ngozi is a first amongst equals and has had many firsts under her belt. Her simple mien far undermines the steel that lies beneath the her exterior. She is one woman that has earned every single stripe on her badge and l am sure she would excel at this new position from her wealth of experience in the Economic/Finance sector. There is something so exhilarating about a Nigerian woman shattering glass ceilings. A woman who’s gender has never been a hinderance. She is a living example that what a man can do, a woman in his shoes, can do better. Her success story has been so uplifting that her trademark Ankara look has actually gained its own followers on social media with women now dressing the NOI way in the #JustLikeNgozi challenge! As they say, copying is the greatest form of flattery and no one is more deserving of that than the enigma, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala! More grease to her elbows. We are so very proud of her. Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Twitter: @thisdaystyleon | Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Website: www.thisdaystyle.ng

FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN JADA DUBAI AND PASSION JEWELLERS PASSION DIAMOND SHOES

DEBBIE WINGHAM HEELS $15.1 MILLION

$23.6 MILLION

These pair of shoes are designed by British designer Debbie Wingham and are the second most expensive pair of footwear in the world. The designer collaborated with footwear designer Chris Campbell in order to create these shoes for a private client, which was a gift to a family member for her 30th birthday. Precious stones were used from the client’s family collection and the entire process of crafting it took over 100 hours. They feature threecarat pink diamonds and one-carat blue diamonds, that are positioned on the front of each of them.

Luxury footwear designer Jada Dubai in collaboration with Passion Jewellers unveiled, designed what is currently known as the most expensive shoes in the world. Showcased for the first time in the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the stiletto shoes are made of gold, leather and silk. They feature as many as 236 diamonds, along with a 15-carat D-flawless diamond near the toes.

SHOES THROWN AT PRESIDENT GEORGE W BUSH $10 MILLION

On December 14, 2008, an Iraqi journalist by the name of Muntadhar alZaidi threw the pair of shoes he was wearing at the then President of the United States, George W Bush. The shoes were eventually bought for $10 Million! The shoemaker also received a massive order of nearly 300,000 pairs of similar shoes in a week.

JASON ARASHEBEN CUSTOM $ 2 MILLION

Known to have been worn by Nick Cannon while hosting the final season of America’s Got Talent, these diamondencrusted, Jason Arasheben custommade shoes feature more than 14,000 round-cut white diamonds that are set on white gold.

TANZANITE HEELS $2 MILLION

Again, designed by Stuart Weitzman, this pair of Tanzanite Heels is coated with 185 carats of elegant bright blue tanzanite gemstones along with 28-carat tanzanite that adds to its beauty.

Top

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

SHOES

TOININVEST NOW

BOTTEGA VENETA MULES

JW ANDERSON LOAFERS

MACH AND MACH SATIN PUMPS

AMINA MUADDI SLING BACK PUMP

Thanks to Daniel Lee and his new creative direction, Bottega Veneta are becoming a brand fast known for setting trends. First it was the The Pouch Clutch that became the bag of the season, and now, the fashion savvy can’t get enough of the BV Square Toe Mules. The shoes are loved by everyone from Rihanna to Hailey Bieber and are now the inspiration behind many high street brands new season shoe collections.

The world may still be in the midst of a global pandemic and fashion shows may be taking place digitally, but even that won’t stop a trend from taking hold. After months of loungewear and rotating between sneakers, slides and slippers, another pair of slides have garnered a cult following and flying off the sales racks faster than you can imagine. The JW Anderson chain loafers it is. The Chain loafer is a unisex pair that was first spotted at the designer’s Paris Men’s Fashion Week show in January, coming as part of Jonathan Anderson‘s Fall/Winter 2020 offering.

You can never have too much sparkle in your life, especially when it comes to your daily dressing – and the easiest way to add a pop of shimmer to your wardrobe is with a fabulous pair of shoes. After all, when it comes to getting ready and stepping out in the era known as the “new norm,” any excuse to leave the house should be cause for celebration and, of course, reflect in our dressing from head to toe. The Georgia footwear brand MACH & MACH, founded by sisters Nina And Gvantsa Macharashvili, is officially the ‘shoe of the moment’. Instagram fashion influencers are celebs are copping a pair for themselves as an instant standout outfit game changer. If you are looking to invest in a pair of shoes right now a pair of this Mach and Mach is will give your outfit that instant oomph it needs and deserves.

Amina Muaddi’s shoes are the hottest things on the footwear front. Her shoes according to search engines, are among the most searched after items, which explains why her colourful diamante encrusted, hourglass shaped heels are so hard to find. Chances are by the time you click on any shopping links of these hot selling shoes, they will be out of stock. But when there is a will, there is always a way and if you are hoping to join the fashion pack on owning a pair then, get clicking and sourcing for your own pair.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

Shoes are love stories just waiting to be told with seemingly endless options each season and one girl who knows all about this love story is Lisa Folawiyo! We go through her Instagram page to show you four pair of shoes every IT girl should own.

STUART WEITZMAN RITA HAYWORTH HEELS $3 MILLION

Well-decorated, and the most expensive shoes by Stuart Weitzman, the Rita Hayworth heels features diamonds, rubies and sapphires. Created from rustcoloured satin, the pair of shoes are the classiest that the brand has on offer. It comes with a price tag of $3 million

MOST EXPENSIVE SHOES IN THE WORLD RUBY STILETTOS $1.6 MILLION

A pair of this Ruby Stilettos designed by Stuart Weitzman features insole made of red satin. It also comes with 600 rubies, each of them weighing nearly one pound.

What was primarily invented to protect and provide comfort to the human feet has, over the years become yet another symbol of luxury. The high fashion shoes, designed by top designers are made using expensive materials. Pairs of such shoes normally cost thousands of dollars. However, there are some shoes, the price of which will surely blow your mind. Let us have a look at the top 10 most expensive shoes in the world. BY USIADE ISIOMA

STUART WEITZMAN CINDERELLA SLIPPERS $2 MILLION

HARRY WINSTON RUBY SLIPPERS

Yet another expensive pair from none other than Stuart Weitzman’s expensive collection, the Cinderella slippers are made up of 565 Kwiat diamonds in platinum setting at laces.

$3 MILLION

A replica of Dorothy’s ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz, these ruby slippers are designed by Harry Winston. They are studded with expensive jewellery and feature art-work, the creation of which took two months. The pair of slippers are a tribute to The Wizard of Oz on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the film’s release in 1989.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

BEYONCE

IDIA AISIEN JENEE

KIKA OSUNDE

TOSIN ADEGBITE

C TSUITS BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

LILIAN AFEGBAYI

Curves are all the rage right now and what better way to show them off than in one of these sexy, catty catsuits? Although many of us wouldn’t dare don one, we give kudos to those brave enough to do so! For those of you who don’t want to wait until Halloween to unleash their inner feline, some of these catty catsuits can be worn on a hot night out...just make sure you tuck everything in while letting loose the right parts.

-- unless your legs are pin-thin, it’s much more flattering. • Do - Pair all-in-ones with high heels if the fabric is tight cover up the top with a blazer. • Do - Balance the look out. As it’s scant on your lower half, it looks casually thrown together, so don’t over-accessorise. • Don’t - Dress it up too much. This trend works best when needs to be a little loose or it can look tarty, which is the • Do - Get a size smaller, even if it fits. Trade up as this look opposite of the vibe.

STYLE & DESIGN

n i G k S e r a C

e d i u

, ore f e b ver here e n t tha s out n get ll n i r sk option ngs ca cart fu u o or ased r, thi ping f skin MA f O I e S o r p EI te -b SIAD o ca cience coun a sho state U t Y B a m t on ow of s 10o n h i a o . t r s u bou array bath iled o ream or you intain aily, a e c r s f o ma into d or zying n ou er ba and i m e o id w iz ev s, n gt kno th a d a spot ou’ve oliant his gu tryin egime e W t wi or t. If y s, exf oad, t Skip our r f u g . s l r b y n vyi ing fa turize e over smart down asks. l l a elm , mois outin e and reak thly t h w r s l n b r ove serum care t simp and nd mo of p i ry day kly, a e e K wee ip: ine eve t o Pr rout step

WHAT TO DO EVERY DAY

Once you’ve taken care of the basics, it’s OK to stop there, or add steps and products if you feel like it.

WHAT TO DO EVERY WEEK 1. Exfoliate with restraint

Not everyone needs to exfoliate their skin, but even with regular cleansing, layers of dead skin can build up on the surface, leaving your face feeling grimy, rough, or dull. Exfoliating once a week can help your skin look and feel smoother, brighter, and will reduce the likelihood of clogged pores. Scrubs featuring rough or sharp particles can cause microtears in the skin. Scrubs can also worsen acne, instead of a scrub, consider a chemical exfoliant, such as an AHA or BHA. These dislodge excess dead skin, allowing it to be gently wiped away.

2. De-clog your pores

2. Wear sunscreen

AYANDA THABETHE

SPF tip: Use a stand-alone

Check out the state of your pores: Is your nose teeming with blackheads and sebaceous filaments? Even though you shouldn’t try to extract them yourself, congested pores are annoying at best and inviting acne at worst. A purifying face mask, such as a clayor charcoal-based mask, or gentle oil massage may help to loosen clogs and minimize the appearance of your pores. Just don’t pick at your skin!

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE ONCE A MONTH

sunscreen. Even if your daily moisturizer or makeup has a stated SPF, keep in mind that SPF rating is based off a volume of sunscreen that’s far more than people think. Imagine using up an entire bottle of foundation in less than four weeks that’s how much you’d need to be protected!

1. Check your expiry dates

From face masks to serums, you may not use up products before they expire. Once a month, check the expiration dates of your products for anything due to be tossed. Even though the sweltering humidity may have you skipping your richer moisturizers, leftovers don’t mean it’s still good to use especially if it’s a product you scoop out with your fingers. This method could possibly introduce bacteria or contaminants, allowing them to thrive in the jar. Consider discarding these products after six months.

3. Skip a step, if you can

Tip: The best routine is a doable one.

Some AHA/BHA chemical exfoliants are designed to be used daily. If you’re already using a daily exfoliant, you may want to avoid a more intense once-weekly exfoliation, as your skin will already be more sensitive. If not, your skin might benefit from a weekly exfoliant to slough off dead skin.

Your skin may be fine with skipping an AM wash, or sticking to just water or a very quick wipe with cleansing water. But when it comes to your PM routine, cleaning off the slurry of makeup, sunscreen, dirt, oil, and bacteria teeming in your pores is a must.

Don’t feel like you have to slather on everything every day. Instead, focus on what your skin needs. Does it need a moisturizer to fight dryness? Or is it dehydrated? Are you using a prescription that needs to be applied daily? Your skin’s needs may change wildly due to climate, season, weather, and age. If you wake up on a humid day and can’t bear the thought of

applying your usual rich moisturizer, skip it! Don’t feel like you have to do the same thing every day your regimen should be enjoyable and relaxing.

Pro-tip: Daily or weekly, not both.

1. Cleanse every night

Yes, we’ve all heard the warnings and are still tempted to zip out for errands sans sunscreen, or to dodge that familiar greasy, heavy feeling but sun damage goes far beyond just a tan: UV radiation is behind photoaging, inflammation, and skin cancer.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

KYRA KNOX

2. Skin self-check

A monthly skin self-exam to identify

STYLE & DESIGN any spots that might need the attention of a dermatologist. Learn how to do a thorough self-exam to detect skin cancer.

WHAT YOU SHOULD LEAVE TO THE PROFESSIONALS 1. Chemical peels

Daily chemical exfoliation is one thing, but full-on chemical peels aren’t something you should be trying at home. Did you know that glycolic acid, one of the most commonly used alpha-hydroxy acid exfoliants, causes increased photosensitivity that can last up to a week even at a low daily concentration? Considering the high concentrations and increased risk of damage with chemical peels, peels are best done in the office of a professional who can guide you through post-peel care and precautions.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

Sun

While it goes without saying that a great pair of sunglasses has always been a wardrobe essential, over the past year, their closet currency has only increased. As ongoing lockdowns have meant that our social lives are centered around regular walks and an array of other outdoor activities, chic sunglasses have become the perfect finishing touch for every look.

GL ASSES

Guide

FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

AVIATOR GUCCI

AVIATOR

First debuted in the 1930s, this classic style has been a closet mainstay ever since. However, while this timeless shape is never out of style, in recent seasons, it has had a renaissance of unprecedented proportions.

AMA GODSON

2. Squeezing and popping clogged pores

We’ve all been there you wake up the morning before a big event and you’ve got an unwelcome blemish waving at you from every reflective surface. As tempting as it may be to squeeze that zit to oblivion don’t! See your dermatologist for something that will usually shrink this within 36 hours an injection of a dilute cortisone medication called Kenalog right into the cyst will do the trick.

LOLITA CAT-EYE SUNGLASSES

CAT-EYE

A perennial favorite, this classic yet contemporary style helps define the cheekbones and can enliven even the most understated outfit. Go bold with exaggerated, graphic wing-shaped frames by Celine and Balenciaga, or add an air of refinement in the form of Saint Laurent’s timeless designs. AMA

Same with extractions

Those eye-catching blackheads and bumpy whiteheads that show as moguls under makeup may look ripe for emptying. But restrain yourself from going on a search-and-destroy mission! Extractions are something best done by a professional.

3. Skin diagnosis and treatment As inviting as it is to look for solutions to serious skin troubles in over-the-counter products and popular remedies, self-diagnosis and DIY treatment can be frustrating at best. At worst, you may actually damage your skin. In the case of mild acne, overthe-counter medications along with aesthetician treatments may be sufficient, but for more inflamed, extensive, or unresponsive acne, prescription medications are usually indicated, and can only be obtained from a dermatologist or other licensed medical provider.

LOLITA CAT-EYE SUNGLASSES

VERONICA ODEKA

OVERSIZED

Anyone in the habit of hitting the snooze button once, twice (or more) each morning will be well-acquainted with the vital role an oversized pair of glasses can play in your life particularly when it comes to off-duty days. Look to fashion powerhouses Gucci and Fendi for Jackie O-inspired frames that add glamour to every outfit.VERONICA ODEKA/ CELINE SQUARE ACETATE

OWL CITY RETRO SUNGLASSES

RETRO

This season, old-school styles are experiencing a resurgence, courtesy of brands such as Loewe and Ray-Ban. Channel the 1970s in the form of round frames and gold-tinted lenses, or throwback to the ’50s with nostalgic tortoiseshell styles. Whichever shape or decade you’re drawn to, these throwback styles make the

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

I-1 MODEL FOR U-M

80s Shirts

During the 1980s, there were two main types of shirts: casual and business. For business, banker shirts and striped shirts were popular. For casual wear, loose shirts featuring colourful, abstract prints were favoured. Polo shirts were also a favourite item of the decade.

80s T-Shirts

R MODEL FO OKUNOREN

During the ’80s T-shirts were worn with everything from jeans to suits. The most popular styles were crew-neck T-shirts, many of which featured slogans, logos or bold placement prints. Other popular designs included crop tops and baseball T-shirts.

BY USIADE ISIOMA

D E L C Y C E R S ’ 0 8 MODEL FOR DAVID TLALE

MODEL FOR COLRS

DARION BENZO

JEREMIAH OGBODO

E H T F O T S E B 80s Accessories

Are you looking for a way to subtly introduce the ’80s trend into your modern wardrobe? Consider adding iconic ’80s accessories, such as cross bags, ankle boots, printed shirts and sunglasses, and hand chains or bead, to your closet.

The ’80s were undoubtedly an interesting time for fashion. Filled with bold designs and bright colours, the decade saw gents fully embrace trends and proudly showcase their style. Of course, over time, these brave looks slowly disappeared to make way for the minimalistic ’90s and ’00s. But they’re now making an incredible return. From bum bags and chunky sneakers to dad jeans and windbreakers, the best of the 1980s is back and better than ever. Here’s how to rock ’80s fashion for men in modern times.

80s Jackets

80s Men’s Hair

During the ’80s, the bigger something was, the better it was, especially hair. Throughout the decade, long locks and voluminous styles, including the iconic mullet, were extremely popular. However, men who worked in business often broke from this trend and rocked sleek, slicked-back hairstyles instead.

80s Jeans

While acid wash jeans are yet to make a comeback, ’80s dad jeans are back in fashion. To rock these classic jeans today, just pick up a faded mid-blue style in a relaxed fit. Also, select a cut with a tapered leg or consider pinrolling the bottoms for the same effect.

MODEL FOR MAI ATAFO

Many jackets that were popular in the ’80s are still fashionable for men today, including denim jackets, leather jackets, and bomber jackets. However, if you’re after a bolder look from the decade, you can’t go past a classic leather jacket on denim

80s Suits

During the ’80s, suits were worn oversized with broad shoulders. For those in business, pinstripe suits were a favourite, and gents would often pair them with a shirt, tie, and suspenders. Outside the office, pastel-coloured suits were on high rotation and were regularly partnered with crew-neck T-shirts instead of button-ups.

got a complaint, feedback or enquiry?

we would love to hear from you.

Please feel free to reach us on any of the following channels: Email: contactcenter@accessbankplc.com Live Chat: https://www.livechat.accessbankplc.com/ Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Tamada: https://tamada.accessbankplc.com/ WhatsApp Banking: 09090901901 Telephone: 07003000000, 01-2802500, 01-2712005-7 Ombudsman: CC-ombudsman@accessbankplc.com

photo credit : Dr. Ikemba Iweala

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

I Z O NG A L A E W I O J N O OK O T G N I D R O C C A D L R O W E H T

BY RUTH OSIME

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (born 13 June 1954) is a Nigerian-American economist and international development expert. She sits on the boards of Standard Chartered Bank, Twitter, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, and the African Risk Capacity (ARC). On 15 February 2021, she was appointed as Director-General of the World Trade Organization. Her term will begin on 1st March 2021, when she will become the first woman and the first African to hold the office. To say Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a woman of many firsts is putting it mildly because over the years, she has shattered many glass ceilings and continues to do so! Previously, Dr Okonjo-Iweala served twice as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, from 2003-2006, 2011-2015, and briefly Foreign Minister in 2006, the first woman to hold both positions and the first to do so. At the time, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s daring stand to go against the grain and fight corruption as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, earned her the moniker “Okonjo Wahala”...which means Okonjo “Trouble” in our local parlance. Undeterred, she forged on in her bid to do what she was employed to do and right the wrongs within her ministry. A hearculean feat which she wrote about after her tenure ended. Now she has added another big feather to her already full ‘fascinator’ (in Ngozi’s case, the word ‘cap’ is simply too simple a word to use with this coin phrase)! After a long haul of campaigning even with though writing already on the wall on her most likely ascent, her main rival for the seat of DG of WTO, South Korea’s Trade Minister, Yoo Myung-Hee finally did the needful and withdrew her race succumbing to popular demand leaving Ngozi as the sole candidate to cinch the position making her not just the first woman to become the new Director-General of the World Trade Organization but also the first African, to take that seat. If her track record is anything to go by, Ngozi will no doubt shake things up and hold power to account as is her usual stand. Needless to say, Okonjo-lweala’s intimidating profile makes her more than worthy of the job as she has been listed as one of the 50 Greatest World Leaders (Fortune, 2015), the Top 100 Most Influential People in the World (TIME, 2014), the Top 100 Global Thinkers (Foreign Policy, 2011 and 2012), the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the World (Forbes, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014), the Top three Most Powerful Women in Africa (Forbes, 2012), the Top 10 Most Influential Women in Africa (Forbes, 2011), the Top 100 Women in the World (The Guardian, 2011), the Top 150 Women in the World (Newsweek, 2011), and the Top 100 most inspiring people in the World Delivering for Girls and Women (Women Deliver, 2011). We watch eagerly and expectedly as this woman of substance undoubtedly makes yet another mark in the sands of time!

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

ACCEPTANCE SPEECH AND GOALS BY USIADE ISIOMA The World Trade Organization on Monday officially appointed the first woman and first black African to serve as Director General, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala will assume the post on March 1st for a renewable term expiring on Aug. 31, 2025. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said in her acceptance speech that the WTO would get the gobal economy running again during her tenure. She expressed willingness to make the WTO stronger, adding that the organization would adapt to the “realities of today”. She went on to say, “I applaud the seven other highly qualified candidates for having come forward to participate in this selection process. The energy and dedication they brought to the process enriched it and underscored a shared belief in the ability of the multilateral trading system to make a significant contribution to the expansion of the global economy for the benefit of all members. I would like to express my profound gratitude to the WTO membership for electing me to lead this organization at this critical juncture, special thanks to President Muhammadu Buhari and all my Nigerian compatriots for their support and prayers. I also want to recognize and thank Ecowas and AU heads of states, the ACP Secretary General and the ACP membership for their early support of my candidacy. Thank you to other members who supported my candidacy from start to finish of this selection process. Without the recent swift action by the Biden Harris administration to join the consensus of the membership of my candidacy, we would not be here today. I am grateful to the United States for the prompt action and strong expression of support. Finally, my thanks to my family and friends too numerous to name them here for their strength and encouragement throughout this process. It’s been a long and tough road, full of uncertainty, but now it’s the dawn of a new day and the real work can begin. Today WTO members are making history. For the first time in the 73 years of WTO, you are selecting a woman and an African as Director General, this is groundbreaking and positive. I am grateful for the trust you have in me not just as a woman and an African, but also in my knowledge, experience and as some of you have said, courage and passion to work with you to undertake the wide-ranging reforms the WTO needs to reposition itself for the future. At the WTO, the DG leads from behind working with the talented secretarial staff to help members achieve results. You can count on me to be proactive, to work hard, to be balanced, fair, professional and objective so as to continuously earn and sustain your trust. That way, together we can restore and rebrand the W.T.O as a key pillar of global economic governance, a force for a strong transparent and fair multilateral trading system and an instrument for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development”. AGENDA/GOALS OF WTO The W.T.O. was already facing acute challenges before Covid19, these challenges have now been applied by the pandemic. In addition to the regretful mountain loss of life, the pandemic has wreaked havoc on the global economy impacting supply chains and disrupting transport and travel, the crisis has helped ended trade and economic activities leading to job losses and reduced incomes around the world. It has erased years of economic gains made by several developing countries and even decades of growth in some low income and least developed countries. Many have been pushed deeper into debt compromising their ability to meet the UN sustainable development goals by 2030. But there is hope on the horizon, the WTO expects world merchandise strength to rebound strongly this year. The IMF forecast an 8% growth in global trade volumes in 2021 and a 6% growth in 2022 while it estimates global GDP to rebound from a -4.4% growth rate in 2020 to 5.5% in 2021 with a

You can count on me to be proactive, to work hard, to be balanced, fair, professional and objective so as to continuously earn and sustain your trust. That way, together we can restore and rebrand the W.T.O as a key pillar of global economic governance, a force for a strong transparent and fair multilateral trading system and an instrument for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development”.

projected 4.2 % growth rate in 2022. However, we cannot be complacent. For the global economy to return to sustained growth, it will need to get a tight grip on the pandemic. The preamble to the Marrakesh agreement states that the objectives of the WTO are to raise living standards and shuffle employment, increase incomes, expand the production and trading goods and services and seek the optimal use of the world’s resources in accordance with the objective of sustainable development, the preamble says it all. The WTO is about people, it is about decent work, let us place its overarching purpose front and centre as a driver for all we seek to accomplish for the multilateral trading system. We need to look at how we can strengthen the working procedures of various WTO bodies so that they can better serve the membership. Transparency is the life blood of the system and every effort should be made to assist members to meet their notification and transparency obligations. The development and streamlining of online tools including the introduction of e-agendas is a step in the right direction. Some WTO rules and procedures also need to be revisited including the procedures of appointing the DG. The ministerial article 4 of the Marrakesh agreement provides that ‘There shall be an MC, a ministerial composed of representatives of all members which shall meet at least once every two years’. In today’s fast space of uncertain world, it may be an opportunity for members to review the frequency of the ministerial to access whether yearly meetings would allow members to better appraise the health of the multilateral trading system, solve problems and together, advance timely solutions. Furthermore, members take decisions on the basis of consensus and rightly so since article 9, one of the Marrakesh agreement provides that ‘The WTO shall continue the practise of decision making by consensus’ but members must be vigilant

that the quest for consensus does not create a situation in which welfare enhancing innovations or approaches of benefits to the membership are frustrated. The W.T.O secretarial should be strengthened to enable it to provide culminate services to the membership in relevant areas of WTO’s work including implementation, monitoring, dispute settlement and negotiations. An important change will be to move away from the current sly load way of working to more team based than task-based approach. The secretarial task should be fit for purpose taking into account the changing dynamics of the global economy and priorities of members. The pandemic and its economic fallout have highlighted its inter-dependence of countries, the importance of multilateralism and the need to strengthen collaboration to achieve fair and balanced straight agreements which provides opportunities for all WTO members particularly for the least developed countries and small island states. By working together, we can build that trust and we can achieve a stronger relevant and inclusive trading system. I am passionate about these goals; I am keen to support you to carry out the necessary reform. I look forward to working closely with all of you in the coming months and years, to help build the WTO that we all want. A WTO that is about people, a WTO that is dynamic, robust and that provides essential supportive economic growth and sustainable development through trade. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, let me conclude by saying that the challenges facing the WTO are numerous and tricky, but they are not insurmountable. There is hope, there is light at the end of the tunnel if we work together in a transparent manner that builds trust, builds bridges, fusses political tension and encourages convergence. Once again, I thank you for this opportunity.

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

FAMOUS QUOTE BY NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is known for her words of wisdom in every aspect of life, be it political, family, work etc, she always has something encouraging to say and these words always have a deeper meaning than they seem. BY USIADE ISIOMA

ECONOMIC SECTOR

Investing in women is smart economics, and investing in girls, catching them upstream, is even smarter economics

If we save people from HIV/AIDS, if we save them from malaria, it means they can form the base of production for our economy.

When you save the life of anyone, a farmer, a teacher, a mother, they are contributing productively into the economy.

I believe that when you find problems, you should also find solutions.

AFRICA

Africans are tired of being the subject of everybody’s charity and care. We are grateful, but we know that we can take charge of our own destinies if we have the will to reform

Mobile phone technology can help to bring financial services to 80 percent of African women who do not have a bank account and bolster the growth of the world’s poorest continent. It’s not just about empowering women, it’s about economic growth. Unless we can make access to finance easier for women in their businesses, we will be missing out on a significant portion of growth within our economies

Africa is a continent of many countries, not one country. If we are down to three or four conflicts, it means that there are plenty of opportunities to invest in stable, growing, exciting economies where there’s plenty of opportunities

I know what it means to go to the stream to fetch water… what it means when people are poor and don’t have enough to eat. It’s not enough to say you know about poverty. You have to live it

Learn to manage success. Very often when people or countries succeed, they forget what made them successful

My parents lost everything, all their savings, because we had to run from the Nigerian side to the Biafran side. We were Igbos.

I can take hardship. I can sleep on the cold floor anytime. I can also sleep on a feather bed.

The best way to help Africans today is to help them to stand on their own feet. And the best way to do that is by helping create jobs.

Africans ... they are tired. They’re tired of being the subject of everybody’s charity and care. We are grateful, but we know that we can take charge of our own destinies if we have the will to reform.

PERSONAL LIFE/WORK

When it comes to doing my job, I keep my ego in my handbag

I’m standing here saying that those who miss the boat now, will miss it forever. So, if you want to be in Africa, think about investing

POLITICAL CORRUPTION IN NIGERIA

No one can fight corruption for Nigerians except Nigerians. Everyone has to be committed from the top to the bottom to fight it.

I felt Nigeria didn’t have to succumb to the image of being a corrupt country; we didn’t have to let the economy stagnate.

Nigeria, with the oil sector, had the reputation of being corrupt and not managing its own public finances well. So, what did we try to do? We introduced a fiscal rule that delinked our budget from the oil price

The U.K. and the U.S. could not have been built today without Africa’s aid. It is all the resources that were taken from Africa, including human, that built these countries today! So, when they try to give back, we shouldn’t be on the defensive.

I’m an African optimist. That doesn’t mean I don’t get frustrated by the obstacles I face, but I see those things as opportunities. 17

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

CHIC CLUTCH BAGS

NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA

SIGNATURE LOOK!

G IN S S E R D E IM T Y A D FOR

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is undoubtedly a stylish woman who has an undisguised love for African prints. Having wholly embraced the ‘dress Nigerian’ culture, she loves to wear elaborately sewn high-end Ankara fabrics. Aside from that, she has mastered the art of tying her headgear in a striking manner and always complete her look with a beaded necklace and small dropping earrings. She loves her lips simple with either a light pink lip gloss or gold lipstick. It has become such a strong signature look now, that the social media is agog with women who copy the style to show their solidarity, have taken to wearing her look while giving her accolades for her latest major feat. In fact, the video of a young lady clad in Ngozi’s trademark attire hit the social media and caused a sensation. Ngozi has over time, won our hearts with her Ankara head tie. A simple style that has now made its own mark in the fashion industry. One would not be surprised if a lot of women permanently embrace this look. It is not only simple and practical, the Ngozi-touch has now made it permanent and a wardrobe staple. So it’s not just about the style but who it represents which makes it more appealing. One can also safely say Ngozi’s favourite colour is blue as she is mostly styled in blue attire.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

It was first designed as the perfect accessory to 1920s party dresses, complementing the elegant evening silhouettes with its sleek, handle-free design. But the clutch bag is no longer confined to the party closet. Today’s spacious iterations, crafted from buttery soft leathers reminiscent of a cloud or a sumptuous squashy pillow, have become an everyday staple in modern wardrobes thanks to their ability to smarten up even the most casual outfits.

#BeLikeNgoziChallenge

PRADA PALLETTERIA CLUCH BAG

Following the appointment of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the DG of the World Trade Organization, Nigerians went into a celebratory mood by copying her distinctive signature style in the #belikengozichallenge. To honour this feat, women are donning her signature look: a full outfit and head tie in African wax cloth known as Ankara, a single strand necklace, and clear glasses.

PETIT SAC SACO

BOTTEGA POUCH CLUTCH

LOEWE FLAMENCO CLUTCH

BOTTEGA CRISSCROSS CLUTCG

5 LESSONS FROM NOI’S WIN FOR THE WORKING GIRL 1

She articulated her accomplishments by impacts e.g., “Helped Nigeria get rid of $30 billion dollars of external debt with the Paris club” etc

Engaged, lobbied at the highest levels.... many presidents gave their public backing... We can’t keep thinking politics is dirty o... we have to try and if we can’t get people to help us.

Understood the power of the media and didn’t shy away from using it.

Even when it looked impossible didn’t lose hope... continued “living her life’.

Despite the other strong resumes declared herself just as any man would as “the right person for the job”.

ABISOLA KOLA-DAISI

By NKIRU OLUMIDE-OJO

TRAIN THE GIRL-CHILD She was raised by her grandmother because her parents were studying abroad, when she was finally reunited with them...she held on tight! She always wanted her father’s attention and this need for attention led to a “COINCIDENCE” that changed her life! Her father was a lecturer at the University of Ibadan, a mathematical economist who was working on a paper and didn’t want any disturbance but the young girl needed her father’s attention... So he picked a book off his shelf and gave his daughter to read the 1st chapter that he would ask questions later and she happily ran off to read it, happy she got her father’s attention... The book turned out to be a book in

“ECONOMICS”, it was boring and she didn’t enjoy it but she still read it and promised herself NEVER to read “ECONOMICS” - COINCIDENCE 1 A few years later at the age of 18, she had already passed her entrance exams to Cambridge and Harvard with Cambridge being her main choice... She wanted Cambridge because she wanted to study “GEOGRAPHY” and her godmother was lobbying for her to come to Cambridge but something happened, her mother had just gained admission to Boston to do her Ph.D. and as a young teenager, it was better to stay with her mum. She had to go to “HARVARD” which is in Boston to stay close to her mum.

ELOHOR ISIOHOR

You can call this “- COINCIDENCE 2 -” as we’re trying to create a pattern. On getting to Harvard, they didn’t offer her core subject “GEOGRAPHY” and the only subject close to it that could satisfy her curiosity was “ECONOMICS” So she studied “ECONOMICS”, a subject she swore never to read in a school that was never her first choice... - COINCIDENCE 3 Forbes called her the “Accidental Economist” but I don’t see it as “Accidental” or “Coincidence”, it was God pushing her towards her destiny of greatness... Thanks to Economics - Former MD World Bank - First Female Finance Minister

- Euromoney Global Finance Minister And yesterday she became the “WORLD’S FIRST FEMALE AND FIRST AFRICAN DIRECTOR GENERAL OF WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION” Her name is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Do you think it was a coincidence or God playing anonymous behind the scenes and directing her steps... I believe things happen for a reason, there is no coincidence in life. You can see how every major event in her life led to the next big event, they are all connected. Congratulations ma Ngozi Okonjo Iweala You’ve made us proud again God’s direction we pray!!! Anonymous

TOSIN ADEGBITE

CHLOE DARRLY CLUTCH

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

DayTo Night

It’s no secret that we’re all busy, running between appointments or meetings. You didn’t even have time to finish your morning coffee so there’s no way you’ll have even an hour to go home and change for your after-office activities. The good news is, there are ways to channel your multitasker’s attitude into your wardrobe and make it work for after work. The key is to mix pieces that are both conservative and edgy, and put together looks that can be easily layered for a quick change when you’re headed out. Read on for ideas for putting it all together from jackets to pencil skirts.

DRESS

DAY: Seek a dress with a structured or peplum shape for a fun twist on a classic. To make sure your date-night look is officeappropriate, look for a silhouette that hits at midcalf. NIGHT: Give the dress a different twist by removing the peplum if removable, wear another shade of lipstick and pull down the hair. BEVERLY NAYA

JUMPSUIT

DAY: The tailored

jumpsuit is a modern twist on traditional suiting. Especially in a navy, black, or blue hue, it›s a great option for those days where you don›t have a second to spare when running from the office to evening plans. NIGHT: Expose more skin by pulling the shoulder down, wear a bold lipstick and wear heels. Model for TURFAH

LEATHER JACKET & RIPPED JEANS DAY: Throw a

jacket on over your ripped pencil jeans and a top to make an office look. NIGHT: Go a little more edgy for post work drinks. Grab a statement bag for added flair. ALEXANDRIAH

MIDI SKIRT AND SNEAKERS DAY: Layer

youthful classics, like a check midi skirt, a small top, and oversized blazer that will take you through morning, noon, and night. SHANIQUA J NIGHT: Take off the blazer and rock your mini top with your high waist skirts. Opt for sneakers for an evening all night fun.

PENCIL SKIRT AND AN OFFICE BLOUSE

DAY: A midi skirt is always a go-to when it comes to office dressing. NIGHT: Style it with a simple top and heeled sandal for a date-nightapproved look as well! Model for ODIO GOZEL GREEN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

WANNIFUGA CRUISE COLLECTION 2021 Inspired by the yearning for something beyond the ordinary, indigenous womenswear brand Wannifuga presents its new Cruise Collection 2021 titled La Femme. BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR The pieces encourage women to find a new level of edgy, confidence, and femininity. With clean cuts and contemporary designs, it alludes to a time and place where women can harness their inner, most authentic selves and be comfortable with it. Speaking on the collection, the Creative Director, Toluwani Wabara says, “At the heart of this collection is the idea that the quiet work of being a woman deserves to be as visible and praised. The act of longing and escapism – looking forward to beautiful vacations and holidays – is something most women identify with, and this collection is an ode to such resilience and bravery. I wanted to use this medium to communicate that there is a place where women can feel their most confident, and that journey is embarked upon just by wearing the pieces in this collection.”

TAILORED SUIT

DAY: Damsel in

a tailored suit for the work day with a neck-tie blouse or crisp button-down shirt. NIGHT: When you leave the office for an evening chill out alone or with friends, ditch the shirt and button up your blazer for a sexy twist on the borrowedfrom-the-boys look. Model for MAI ATAFO

Credits : Brand : @wannifuga Model : @shine_rosman Make Up : @artistrybylisaa Hair : @fjesam Photography : @mr_babarinde Creative Direction/Production : @tsc.agency

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

BEAUTY

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9418 Sunday, February 21, 2021

Skincare Tips FOR THE BEST SKIN OF YOUR LIFE We all dream of flawless, glowing skin, but with new products constantly hitting the shelves and the seemingly endless skincare advice out there on the Internet, it’s not always easy to figure out the skincare routine that’s going to work best for you. You know the basics drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and wash your face, but what about everything in between? Luckily, there’s no need to shell out tons of cash on any magical procedures or expensive creams to achieve flawless skin. Dermatologists and beauty experts have put together best skincare tips. From choosing the right cleanser for your skin type to the importance of cleaning your makeup brushes, these easy tricks plus some top-tested product picks will help guide you to glowing skin. BY USIADE ISIOMA

Use the correct cleanser for your skin type For oily or acne-prone skin, for dry mature skin, use either a moisturizing glycolic or milky cleanser. For skin with brown spots, use a brightening wash, such as an alpha hydroxy acid cleanser.

Don’t use too many products

Layering on multiple skincare products all at once is a big no-no, it can be harsh on the skin, resulting in more breakouts and clogged pores.

Don’t touch your face

Figuring out how to avoid touching your face is very important. It doesn’t just spread bacteria and cause breakouts it can lead to scarring, an increase in wrinkles, and even the flu or other viruses.

Moisturize both day and night

The best times to moisturize are right after you 22

get out of the shower and right before you go to bed. Avoid lotions with heavy fragrances and make sure you find a moisturizer gentle enough for everyday use with zero irritation.

Hydrate inside and out

Every skin expert we spoke to emphasized the importance of hydration. Choosing products cleansing, moisturizing, and anti-aging that have hydrating formulas. And, of course, drink around eight glasses of water a day.

Avoid direct heat exposure

Don’t just watch out for the sun getting too close to heaters and fireplaces can also wreak havoc on your skin. It causes inflammation and collagen breakdown.

Exfoliate a couple times per week

Choose a product that is pH neutral so it doesn’t dry as it exfoliates. And don’t just stop with your

face the skin on your body needs exfoliation too.

Clean your makeup brushes regularly

To fight infection and clogged pores washing concealer and foundation brushes once a week. For brushes you use around your eyes, twice per month, and for any other brushes, once a month is fine.

Wear sunscreen 365 days a year — rain or shine, indoors or out

Many people feel they only need to protect themselves on sunny days or when visiting the beach. But the truth is that we need to protect our skin even when we’re driving a car, flying in an airplane, or running errands. It’s the daily UV exposure that contributes to the visible signs of aging. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or greater and remember that it needs to be reapplied every 2 hours. 23