THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 12TH MARCH 2023 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

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

SUNDAY, MARCH 12, 2023

ODIO OSENI PAVING THE WAY

EDITOR’S LETTER

CONTENT

COVER NOTE

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Buy Nigerian.

cover photo Lateef Salvador

Society

BURIAL OF CHIEF SUNDAY RONE

The family of UTM Offshore Limited Boss, Julius Rone OFR , staged a befitting funeral for his late father, Chief Sunday Stephen Rone, the Obazuaye of Warri Kingdom between 17 and 19 February.

S yle EXECUTIVE EDITOR KONYE NWABOGOR 08111847087

Lifestyle & Fashion Review: Lojay Drops A 8 “Gangster Romantic” Ep On Us! THE LBD – A timeless 9 fashion Icon

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE EDITOR OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI 08111847086 ASSISTANT EDITOR OROMAJUMBO 08113921062

10 Mother’s Day Gift Guide 11 Culture Shapes Fashion

Online, Now Lifeline

9 Co-ords Sets You Should Have in Your Wardrobe

Movie Review

Why More Men Should Embrace Skincare

VISUAL/SENIOR DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 GUEST CORRESPONDENT YOMI OWOPE CONTRIBUTORS AZUKA OGUJIUBA DIDEE ETA AYO LAWAL BUKOLA AMOBOYE RUKY SALAKO KEJUO LEKAN

The Survivors

40 Things Every Woman Should Know By 40

PHOTOGRAPHER LATEEF SALVADOR DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

@thisdaystyle |

Still, in the spirit of celebrating women, I would like to take my mind off the recently passed elections and all the related drama and focus on the resilience of Nigerian fashion designers. A predominantly femaledominated industry where women like my cover personality Odio Oseni have, against all odds, created a thriving global fashion and lifestyle brand. I have been in the industry long enough to know how hard it is to stay relevant as a fashion designer. I still remember several promising names who have fallen by the wayside. And through no fault of theirs, I can tell you. We all see the glitz and glam side of the fashion industry without talking about how hard it is for these designers to keep their brands afloat— especially the up-and-comers who struggle to find a platform to showcase their work. Everyone in the industry knows that a huge part of the game is about being well-connected - who you know counts. Asides from the obvious issues the sector faces, like raw materials and manufacturing, a scarcity of cash and skilled labour, there’s also the issue of getting your work out there, which may be difficult if you do not have the right connections. It’s a lot. Yet more often than not, they come out winning. We should do more to recognise their hard work and role in promoting Nigeria at home and overseas. Some of the big names in the industry are already internationally acclaimed, which fills me with so much pride. And with the younger ones coming up, the list continues to grow. These designers continue to push the envelope of what can be done with our fabric while blazing the trail for others to follow. If properly handled, this sector has a tremendous opportunity for growth. Furthermore, if the industry is consciously and sustainably invested in, it can significantly enhance the Nigerian economy in the long term. I hope that over time, the Nigerian government will make a more conscious effort to invest in the fashion industry, provide more grants and assist these designers. Till then, let’s all do our part in helping this sector grow by patronising them. Not sure what brands to start with? Then log on to www.thisdaystyle.ng today. We have all the scoop on the best Nigerian brands and styles to have in your wardrobe. Enjoy the rest of your day, and have an amazing and fruitful week ahead. Love,

Konye

@thisdaystyleon | www.thisdaystyle.ng

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Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

Burial of chief sunday rone

ANGELA JIDE-JONES

UGHOGHO AKPATA

SYLVESTER UNOKANESAN

JOE PENAWOU

RIMON MARISHO AND JUERGEN FISCHER

he family of UTM Offshore Limited Boss, Julius Rone OFR, staged a befitting funeral for his late father, Chief Sunday Stephen Rone, the Obazuaye of Warri Kingdom between 17 and 19 February. Business Tycoons and Politicians across party lines graced the ceremony to honor Julius Rone the Gas King. PHOTO: KUNLE OGUNFUYI

ORITSEWINOR, JULIUS, UTIBE, ORITSEMISAN, JASON OBASEKI AND SISAN RONE

LEEMON IKPEA AND BARWA MOHAMMED

ABASIAMA AJAYI; DEBBIE OGHENE AND ENO UDOH

BISHOP BEST AGBOLAYA

FMR GOV EMMANUEL EWETA UDUAGHAN

AMAJU PINNICK

OLUMIDE AKPATA

HON BRABOKE

HON. SINKUMO EKISAH

BRODERICKS ARIGBODI.

LUKE ANELE

HON. OBINNA CHIDOKA

GORDONS

BEATRICE UMOH, IDONGESIT PETERS AND ESTHER OKPOGORO

OSAZUWA AND IRENE OBASEKI

PROF OMATSEYI

ADEYEMI SUARA, CHARLES ESSIEN AND MALACHY ABULU

SCOTT TOMMEY

TUNDE SMOOTH

HON LOVETH IDISI AND HON EFE ALFA

SHERIFF OBOREVWORI

INI UKEM AND RAYMOND ABIA

OBES ESISO

DERE EMIKO

PAUL NMAH

RASAKI PORBENI

WARRI COUNCIL OF CHIEFS

ENAHORO ETA AND DEBBIE USMAN

ADOKIYE TOMBOMIEYE, ORITSEMEYIWAA EYESAN, ADA OYETUNDE

BARWA MUHAMMED

TEMISAN OMATSEYE

DR NOSIRU GBASAMOSI, NNAMDI ILECHUKWU AND RICHARDSON ARIGBODI

SIMBI WABOTE AND ALFRED TEMILE

LUCKY OGHENE-OMORU

OLIVER AND CHRISTIANE COHNEN AND BENNY BROMMER

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

THE LBD – A timeless fashion Icon By Funke Babs-Kufeji

REVIEW: LOJAY DROPS A “GANGSTER ROMANTIC” EP ON US! By Charles Didee Eta

He was also able to use his distinct falsetto on music composed from afrobeat, amapiano and RnB influences to show the pedigree of the artist he is in terms of versatility, reminding us that he can deliver a set of banging jams without stress. 8

The popular Afro-Pop/RnB artiste Lojay (Born Lekan Osifesi Jr) has finally fulfilled his promise of fresh materials and has recently dropped yet another EP titled “Gangster Romance”. From his very arrival into the music industry in 2017, when he released his début project named “Midnight Vibes”, he was instantly noticed and adored by a lot of listeners, including the prolific Nigerian producer “Sarz”, who reached out and eventually worked on a collaborative track-list with Lojay for his sophomore project called “LV N ATTN”. Unlike his first project, every song was fire because ‘’Sarz’’ fine-tuned his sound with his sophistication and uniqueness, finally allowing Lojay beautiful vocals to resonate. I mean, from the first single, “Tonongo”, you could hear and feel the intensity of the lyrics and smooth musical direction. This clearly shows the organic chemistry they both share and, at the same time, the fact that Lojay is capable of more intriguing music. Fast forward to now, and I can firmly say his delivery over the years has been pretty much decent, considering he keyed jawdropping features with the likes of Chris Brown and Wizkid. On this EP, he worked with a series of well-known producers whose names are; Elementz, P.PRIME, MagicSticks, Dro and AOD. These producers have been able to help Lojay show off his vocal strength and diversity. He was also able to use his distinct falsetto on music composed from afrobeat, amapiano and RnB influences to show the pedigree of the artist he is in terms of versatility, reminding us that he can deliver a set of banging jams without stress. So, the first song on the track list is titled “YAHWEH”, a reintroduction to his existing reputation as a sleek playboy who spits vulgarities and doesn’t mind going the extra mile to fulfil pleasures. He has always glorified the female anatomy, so that has stayed constant, but on this track, he projects a more emotional side that screams a need for intimacy than usual. Next is the P.PRIME produced up-tempo

record “LEADER”, which seems to be the major boop in this list. Lojay’s melodic imputes were stellar and catchy, the exact flow needed for the instrumental background, which sits rather nicely with his airy vocals. It reminded us why we appreciate his unique approach to afro beats in the first place. The third song on the list is “Moto”, which has a sorrowful but underlined love message, showing a softer side of the artist. Despite his typical manly bravado, he admits to falling deeply in love and clamours about the fact that it’s truly heartbreaking to be in such a position. However, he still gives the impression that he wouldn’t change the entire experience. The fourth song, “Canada”, was one of the headliners of the EP, being that he featured South-African heavyweights Kabza De Small and Dj Maphorisa, who brought about this enjoyable amapiano club banger on this list. Unfortunately, the song may not have received the best reception when it was initially released as a single, but I feel strongly that it will grow on its listeners with time. Next on the list is the fifth song, titled “IYD”, a track that continues lojay’s search for romance on this album. He comes clean about his faults and plea’s for a chance to be taken with all of his flaws. The mid-tempo RnB track is very vital for the balance of this album. Lojay is vocally blessed, and this track helps show off his gift and his world-class writing skills. He then increases the tempo with another amapiano song, “Availabu”, a very danceable track due to its pa-caution and catchy lyrics. The final track on the EP is titled “OVA”, a song that narrates a bitter tale of love and how badly it affected his emotions and actions, enough to force him to close his heart in defence. This entire project is a musical statement from a man who wants to be perceived differently from who he used to be but battling his inner darkness and struggles to find balance in any way he can. Musically the EP seems to be cohesive and a good comeback after his well-needed break from the scene.

The little black dress (LBD) is a timeless classic that has been a staple in women’s wardrobes for almost a century. It has, over time, become synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and versatility, and has stood the test of time as a fashion icon. The history of the LBD dates back to the 1920s when fashion designer Coco Chanel introduced a simple yet elegant black dress in her collection. Chanel believed that black was the most versatile colour in fashion, and her LBD became a symbol of modernism and simplicity. The LBD gained popularity in the 1950s when Hollywood actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe donned it on the big screen. Its popularity continued to soar through the decades, becoming a must-have item in every woman’s wardrobe. The LBD has been reinvented in various styles, fabrics, and lengths and has remained relevant in the fashion industry for almost a century. The Modern-Day Woman’s take on the LBD Today, for the modern woman, the LBD is a wardrobe essential. It is not just a fashion statement but also a symbol of power and confidence and is perfect for any occasion, whether a formal event or a night out with friends. The LBD has also become more inclusive, with various styles available for women of different sizes and body shapes. Plus-size LBDs are now widely available, and they offer a flattering and comfortable fit for women who want to look and feel confident. One of the reasons why every woman needs one in her wardrobe is because of its versatility. The LBD can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. You can also pair it with a blazer and pumps for a formal look or dress it down with sneakers and a denim jacket for a casual look. The LBD is also a perfect canvas for accessorizing, and you can add statement jewellery or a colourful scarf to make it pop. Another reason why the LBD is a must-have piece is that it is timeless. It is not just a passing trend but a classic that will never go out of style. Investing in one means you will have a wardrobe staple you can wear for years. If you don’t already have an LBD in your wardrobe, it’s time to invest in one!

The LBD has been reinvented in various styles, fabrics, and lengths and has remained relevant in the fashion industry for almost a century.

AUDREY HEPBURN 1960 FAMOUS DRESS

THE LBD BY CHRISTIAN DIOR

OJY OKPE

RUTH

BEVERLY OSU

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

CULTURE SHAPES FASHION

AWA MEITÉ; INFUSING IDENTITY INTO FASHION

hen the topic of Culture in the fashion industry is brought up, certain labels dominate the top spots on the list. One such label is Awa Meité. Hailing from Bamako, Mali, the artisanal brand Awa Meité has its foundations laid in the nation of its birth. Drawing inspiration from its roots, it holds as one of its core values the preservation of its cultural ethics as the brand gains recognition. Founded by multi-talented Fashion and textile designer Awa Meité, the label stands out as a significant representation of the importance of Culture in Fashion. Awa Meité takes her stand with the notion “culture shapes fashion” and uses her brand as a physical representation of this belief. She believes that in striving to embrace our Culture, a large part of that act goes to what we wear: our mode of attire. Awa Meité seeks her label to serve as a means of retaining a sense of Culture in the minds of individuals. She builds it with the vision of reminding us of the importance of our cultural background. Her desire is to keep individuals in sync with their roots. After all, if one doesn’t remember where they are coming from, how can they hope to understand where they are going? Culture is the substructure of our identity and the backbone of civilization. It gives bearing to the young ones and substance to the elderly. It should, by all means, be

By Kejuo Lekan preserved. Awa Meité, the mind behind the distinguished label, Awa Meité, sees her brand as a way of enforcing this preservation through Fashion and style. For the Arise Fashion Week and Jazz Festival, Awa Meité, one of the thirty designers selected to showcase their works, hit the runway with flair and colour. The label had proudly raised the Malian flag high with its colourful collection of traditional, hand-crafted pieces; each piece crafted in inclination to its cultural roots. To an observer’s eyes, a truly intriguing part of the label’s showcase is the way each piece displayed on the runway seemed to have walked out of the tapestry of simple but unique woven Malian lives. A mother returning from the marketplace. A father on his way to the farm at the break of dawn. A hunter returning home with his kill. A young damsel returning from spending time with her lover, reminiscing in memories of his woos and wiles. Different lives, different stories. The collection not only came in beauty, colour and style but also with stories to tell. This identifies as one of the beauties of Culture’s place in Fashion: Speaking without words directly to the heart and mind. In essence, Culture infuses identity into Fashion. Awa Meité’s ability to harness such a skill is an attribute deserving of praise. The label is a reputable symbol of Culture in Fashion.

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE: 10 PICKS SHE WILL ABSOLUTELY ADORE Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the most important woman in your life. It’s a day to show appreciation for all the love, care, and sacrifices she has made for you over the years, and a thoughtful gift can convey your gratitude and make her feel special. Still, trying to figure out what to get your mum come March 19th? Here are ten gift ideas for Mother’s Day that will make her smile. By Bukola Amoboye

Personalised Jewelry: Jewelry is always a great gift idea, but personalised jewellery takes it to the next level. You can engrave her name, initials, or a special message on a necklace, bracelet, or ring. It’s a timeless gift she can wear and cherish for years. Spa Day:

Every mom deserves a day of relaxation and pampering. Book her a spa day where she can enjoy a massage, facial, manicure, and pedicure. It’s a gift that will make her feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

Handwritten Letter:

Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come straight from the heart. Write your mom a heartfelt letter expressing your love and gratitude for all she has done for you. It’s a gift that she will treasure forever.

Cooking Class:

If your mom is a foodie, consider booking her a cooking class. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn new culinary skills and techniques. She’ll be able to take her new skills and impress her family and friends with delicious meals.

Digital Photo Frame:

A digital photo frame is a great way to display all of your favourite family photos. You can preload it with pictures of your mom, her family, and her friends.

Aromatherapy Diffuser:

Aromatherapy diffusers are a great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress. You can choose from a variety of scents, including lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus.

Customised Book:

If your mom is an avid reader, consider getting her a customised book. You can create a book with her name and picture on the cover and include all her favourite quotes and passages.

Wine Tasting:

For the wine-loving mom, book her a wine-tasting experience. She’ll get to sample a variety of wines and learn about the different grapes and regions.

Smartwatch:

A smartwatch is a practical gift that can track her fitness goals, monitor her heart rate, and keep her connected to her phone and messages. It’s a gift that will make her life easier and more efficient.

Her desire is to keep individuals in sync with their roots. After all, if one doesn’t remember where they are coming from, how can they hope to understand where they are going?

Homemade Treats: If you’re on a tight budget or want to give a personal touch, consider baking some homemade treats. You can make her favourite cookies, cakes, or muffins. It’s a simple and heartfelt gift that she’ll appreciate.

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

COVER

photo credit LATEEF SALVADOR

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

Odio Oseni is the name and the driving force behind the Odio Mimonet fashion label, a name coined from the designer’s pseudo name “Mimi” and the name Claude Monet. A graduate of Yaba College of Technology and London College of Fashion, Odio is one of Nigeria’s pre-eminent fashion designers and has worked in the fashion industry for over 25 years. Her brand has designed and fashioned some of the most iconic pieces in the African fashion industry and has dressed some of the most fashionable women in Nigeria and Africa. In this interview, Funke Babs-Kufeji sits down with the pioneer designer to discuss the success of her business and her views on the growth of the Nigerian fashion industry. You have been in the fashion industry since 1995 or even before that, and it won’t be out of place to say the Odio Mimonet brand is one of the pioneer fashion brands in the Nigerian fashion industry. Please tell us when you first became interested in fashion, why you went into fashion design, why it is important to you, and what your journey has been thus far? My love for colour and art has always influenced me. As a child, I always loved art masters and impressionist artists, and I was always autographing surfaces with my signature. Our brand name Odio Mimonet was formed using Mimi, my pseudo name and Claude Monet. My love for art made me go into fashion design, and the journey has been very rewarding, though there is still room for much more to be done concerning my brand and the Nigerian fashion industry. Where do you look for creative inspiration? My creative ideas come from everywhere. I especially like a woman dressed gracefully. We generally do a lot of thinking outside the box but stay true to our design ethos. We also build on and reinvent our legacy styles. Over the years, the African fashion industry, particularly the Nigerian fashion industry, has made significant inroads on the international stage. What do you think has brought about this awareness, and what role would you say your brand has played in this journey? African fashion has indeed made great strides, with the world welcoming other cultures and their beauties within. Nigeria, as an African giant, has made significant strides. Odio Mimonet always strives to highlight the rich African culture. We are driven to propel Africa’s unique contribution to the global art and fashion ecosystem, thus infusing our culture, colours, textures, vivacious nature, temperaments, and happiness through our pieces. Social media and blog sites have also propelled Nigerian fashion into the limelight, and the world can now see real-time designs coming out of the country. African music is now globally recognised as well. Since fashion is a community and we live within it, our life is an osmosis process. We believe, thankfully, that the brand has possibly influenced many others coming behind us, and we thank God for it. We have also played a role in the revival of the agbada, which lends male strength but with female ease. With my brand, we have had exposure dressing world-stage celebrities and representing Nigeria through fashion. We have also had international exposure stocking in foreign retail outlets.

ODIO OSENI PAVING THE WAY

The Odio Mimonet brand has evolved over the years. If I recall correctly, the brand began as a couture brand catering to women who wanted bespoke outfits for special occasions, but it has since morphed and added a ready-to-wear and diffusion line. Tell us more about all the lines that make up the Odio Mimonet brand. The diffusion lines were created to open up the brand to clients who need fashion on the go and to a broader range of tastes and budgets. Voyage, a ready-to-wear brand, has an element of couture with pieces that can be worn for personal milestone events or any special occasion. Mimi is a more playful and affordable line of the brand; it’s more for building an everyday wardrobe. Where do you see the brand in the next five years? We have expansion plans both locally and internationally. We also want to increase our product offering. We recently launched a home line called Odio at Home, with table runners and mats made here with locally sourced fabrics.

I’m looking forward to this one, as it represents everything, I like to surround myself with at home that gives life that extra comfort. Almost 30 years later, you must have seen and done it all, but tell us what you will say has been your biggest moment in fashion and why? I would say my biggest moment in fashion was my first international feature in an editorial. It was awesome to know someone with fresh eyes could look at my work and understand the design thinking that went into the process. Having had the privilege to showcase on many international runways, can you take us back to your first international show? Where was it, and can you relive that experience with us? Coincidentally, our first international show was with Arise in South Africa at the Sandton Center about 14 years ago. Sharing a stage with other African designers reassured me of my path in the fashion world. The exposure was exactly what the brand needed at the time, and as they say, the rest is history. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift in fashion as we know it. What changes did you make to your brand to accommodate life during and after the pandemic? The Covid-19 pandemic destabilised a lot of businesses and their processes. Our mode of operation had to adjust. We found ourselves servicing the hospitality industry during that period, and we have continued and are looking into producing diverse products in that sector. With the pandemic came comfort clothing, and your agbadas have become a hit among the Lagos fashion crowd. What was the inspiration behind it? Fashion needs to be comfortable, and I must see myself in my designs. I live in my agbadas; they were designed as easy wear that can take you to different places at the same time. The OM agbadas are a line we had for at least seven years before the pandemic came. You know, Agbadas are a part of the African traditional clothing culture. We have always had a strong traditional wear history. From fabricating styles in Ankara, tie-dye, and batik, we worked with those fabrics when it wasn’t fashionable to do so. So naturally, they were reimagined to make them more appealing to a diverse range of people. How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal? I’d say it’s our uniqueness that brings the commercial appeal. In this line of business, you have to truly understand who you are as a designer and stay true to it. Understanding this has helped with keeping out the noise and pressure from outside. When you see an Odio Mimonet piece, you instantly recognise it. That’s what keeps me gratified as a designer. You’re both the creative and the business head of your company. How do you balance your time between the two? Being a creative is easy for me. I have sketched since I was old enough to hold a pen. The business part is what we learn every day. I read many business books, have taken countless courses, and have mentors. The life of a designer isn’t as glamorous as people might think. It’s hard work, but we’re scaling gradually, and I’m excited about the future.

My love for colour and art has always influenced me. As a child, I always loved art masters and impressionist artists, and I was always autographing surfaces with my signature 15

COVER

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

OPINION;

ONLINE, Now LIFELINE. Being a part of the Arise brand has also brought international recognition and exposure. We have had international models like Liya Kebede, and a few others walk our shows and receive publicity in magazines like Vogue and the like

By Kejuo Lekan

A Gen Z wakes up in the morning, an hour past alarm, and automatically reaches for his phone in an innate, almost unconscious movement. “ Gen Z’s are obsessed with social media.” “Gen Z’s care about just two things: themselves and their phones” “Gen Z’s really can’t live without their smartphones.” “ Gen Z’s live ONLINE”

You have been on many platforms in Nigeria, Arise Fashion Week being one of the biggest. How has being a part of the Arise brand impacted your brand? First, there is the funding of these shows, which we all know are very expensive for any fashion house to bear alone and Arise Fashion Week has been gracious enough to cover them. Being a part of the Arise brand has also brought international recognition and exposure. We have had international models like Liya Kebede, and a few others walk our shows and receive publicity in magazines like Vogue and the like. No man can be an island. More of these collaborations are required, particularly in this industry in this country. The younger designers need continuous encouragement and funding as Nigeria continues to be a fashion travel spot. Regarding the Nigerian industry, a lot still needs to be done. What are the changes that, from your point of view, need to be made? The industry needs a lot of funding. Textiles can easily make a mess on expenses. We need technically skilled artisans, tools,

and equipment. We still have a lot of issues with trademarks. We need more fashion retail outlets for distribution and stocking. We also need more buyers from major fashion retailers outside Nigeria. Fashion shows are exciting, but for us, it’s a real business; at the end of the day, business is about sales. What do you think is the most challenging part of trying to become a successful, established fashion designer? I believe it is developing and retaining skill sets within the fashion community. I have to say I am grateful to have been able to contribute to the fashion industry by enhancing the gifts and talents of the community. There is a lot of pressure on designers to produce their best collection season after season. What advice would you give young designers just starting out and hoping to make it in the industry? Wake up with passion. Live fabulously and have fun doing what you do. Add value, grow your inner gift, and stay kind.

That should be enough to make a mark. Right now, you’re probably wondering why I have written all these statements and already contemplating the nature of their context. These are common and popular utterances and opinions directed at Generation Z: my generation. We have earned the title or, more pointedly, we have been branded ‘the Online generation’. Some may call these remarks far-fetched, insulting, or overly stereotypical. And they’re probably right in their evaluation. But unfortunately, even as stereotypical as they may sound, these statements are, to some extent, true. To back this up, let me paint a scenery: A Gen Z wakes up in the morning, an hour past alarm, and automatically reaches for his phone in an innate, almost unconscious movement. An Instagram notification pops up on its screen, and the much-needed sleep of five seconds ago is completely forgotten. His senses, focus and cognition are now all in one place: online. Hold that picture in your head. Do you now have an idea of where I am heading? HAS ONLINE NOW BECOME A LIFE MONITOR? “ Gen Z’s live ONLINE” I’ve heard this statement more times than I can keep count of. And to put it bluntly, it holds more truth than I would like to admit. A good number of Gen Z’s have the basis of their lives and values embedded online. We have our relevance of existence and the worth and value of our lives decided by the response to a tweet or a picture posted. Sanity, depression, sincerity, mood, vitality, love, hatred, and grudges are now judged and evaluated by whether or not a person likes a post or how long it takes a person to comment on a tweet. The nature of the comment, in turn, depicts the nature of the person’s life as of then. Reposts and reviews have now become psychological factors. If a person’s post is delayed past his or her regular posting schedule, it becomes a cause for worry. They have friends calling to find out if everything’s alright.

What happened to taking a walk down to your friend’s home on a regular day to check up on them? Being online has, in the recent past, held the basis of the Gen Z lifestyle. Now it is more: it is a life factor. If you’re not online, you’re out of line. HAS THE GEN-Z LIFESTYLE BEEN AFFECTED BY VIRTUAL LIVING? Yes, of course! The online factor, or virtual living, has greatly influenced the daily living of Gen Z’s today. So much time and energy is spent on virtual living

that actual living is neglected. The frivolities and mundanities of social media platforms have ursuped the basic humane values of daily living. Netflix is now categorised as a recreational activity. Tik toking is now considered an interpersonal relationship skill. Tweeting is now a badge of diplomacy and relevance. We’ve sidelined and numbed a core value that is the basis of real living and lifestyle: physical contact and interaction for empathy, care, attention, growth, communication and teamwork. Meanwhile, this should be the pillar of our lifestyle. What happened to having a conversation that is absent of toxic gossip and trending topics? What happened to living your life without seeking to become the next viral thing? Go out. Take a walk. Hang out with your friends. Spend quality time with family. Go out and live a real life with real people!

Sanity, depression, sincerity, mood, vitality, love, hatred, and grudges are now judged and evaluated by whether or not a person likes a post or how long it takes a person to comment on a tweet.

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

EMMY KASBIT SS23 LOOK 24/25 While technically a three-piece set, this Emmy Kasbit get-up can be purchased without the matching crop top.

ABIOLA OLUSOLA DABO SET

You can never go wrong with all black. The cut-outs, tassel detailing and frayed hems elevate an otherwise simple look.

AGA CULTURE - JOMI BRALETTE & JOJO SKIRT

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

This adorable set from Aga Culture can be ordered in seven different colourways, including solid colours and two splashdye detailed fabrics.

CO –ORD SETS YOU SHOULD HAVE IN YOUR WARDROBE

KILENTAR - JOYO MEJE SET

The Joyo Meje top is a spin-off of Kilentar’s popular Joyo top. The star attributes of this new style are the cinched wrists and flared bottom sleeves. It pairs well with the Joyo Meje skirt, a fun and flirty layered chiffon skirt. This set is perfect for date night.

By Oroma Jumbo

A versatile wardrobe is essential for any fashionconscious girl, and with the right coordination, you can achieve just that creating countless stylish and functional outfits. One of the keys to this is having the right co-ord sets in your wardrobe. Co-ord sets, also known as coordinate sets, are matching two-piece outfits that make styling effortless. From casual wear to formal attire, there are various types of co-ord sets to choose from. Here are seven co-ord sets you should consider having in your wardrobe.

LISA FOLAWIYO - CALL THE KING JERSEY TOP & CROWN PRINT A LINE FEATHER SKIRT ORIRE - BLU SET

TIFFANY AMBER My favourite look from Tiffany Amber’s recently released Heritage collection. I am a huge fan of all the details. The colour adds to its beauty. This is one co-ord set that will stand out worn together or seperately.

This set screams “Confident” and is the reason I have been going to the gym recently. For the more conservative ones among us, the top can also be worn beneath a see-through top or a shirt or jacket, unbuttoned or buttoned up halfway.

KAI COLLECTIVE - AMARIS SET

Kai Collective is well-known for the Gaia print series of clothing that broke the internet in 2020. The brand recently released the Amaris mesh cardigan and midi pencil skirt in a new Ayo print. Dare to bare it all underneath this set, or opt for black or skin-tone underwear.

RENDOLL LAGOS BEA SET

If you want to “shine” a light on your curves, this is the outfit to get. The pun is fully intended.

Feathers on clothing are definitely not going anywhere. A mini skirt version of this co-ord with cutout butterflies - a signature feature of Lisa Folawiyo’s SS23 collection - debuted on the 2023 Arise Fashion Week & Jazz Festival runway.

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Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

WHY MORE MEN SHOULD EMBRACE SKINCARE By Bukola Amoboye

In recent years, the skincare world has become more inclusive and gender-neutral. Nowadays, the idea that skincare is only for women is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Male skincare products are now available in the market, and men are beginning to take notice. These products are designed to cater to the unique needs of men’s skin, which tends to be thicker and oilier than women’s. This is a positive step towards breaking down the social construct of gender stereotypes and allowing men to embrace skincare benefits. The benefits of skincare are numerous. It helps in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the environment, such as pollution, sun damage, and other environmental factors. It also helps improve the skin’s texture, reducing fine lines and

wrinkles, and reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. As a man, caring for your skin shows that you value self-care and self-improvement. It also shows that you are confident in your masculinity and are not afraid to break the norms of what is considered ‘masculine’. Men who embrace skincare are perceived as more confident and put together. It is important to remember that caring for one’s skin is not a gendered activity. Everyone, regardless of gender, should take care of their skin. As a man, it is important to educate oneself about skincare basics and consult with skin care professionals to find the right products and routine for one’s skin type.

How to Get Started with Skincare Keep It Simple

You don’t need to spend a lot of time or money on skincare products to get started. Begin with a basic routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen. Look for products designed for men’s skin that are free from harsh chemicals that can irritate or damage the skin.

Wash Your Face Twice a Day

M VIE REVIEW

DARK OCTOBER REVS UP MEMORIES OF THE ‘’ALUU FOUR’’ LYNCHING. By Bukola Amoboye Released exclusively to Netflix on the 3rd of February, Dark October is a movie based on the true-life story of four students from the University of Port-Harcourt who were wrongfully accused of theft in the Aluu community, Port-Harcourt and were lynched to death by a mob in October 2012. Chuks Joseph, Okpara Munachi, Kelechukwu Oriaku, Kem-Ajieh Ikechukwu, Chibie Johnny, Moman Bognet and many others were amongst those who led the performance in this movie and did their best to bring the characters to life. Although names were changed, Dark October provides insights into the sequence of events that led to the lynching and some of the events that followed. Some of you might recall that this story trended and rocked the entire nation for weeks. The boys were later known as the Aluu4. Produced by media mogul Linda Ikeji and directed by Toka McBaror, Dark October is an emotional movie that highlights the dangers and consequences of false accusations and jungle justice. It is not often we see movies solely based on actual events that occur in Nigeria, so one must commend Linda Ikeji for taking it up and Toka for bringing it to life. For many people who remember this gory event, the actual boys involved were no more than strangers, but Dark October offers the opportunity to view these victims through a different lens. We don’t see thieves or rebellious students; instead, we see young boys full of hopes and dreams who unfortunately happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. For dramatisation, most movies based on true stories tend to add extra scenes or characters based on ‘what ifs’. Unfortunately, in Dark October, some of these extra scenes, dialogues and characters could have

blended in better, and at some point, we lost their essence as the story progressed. Otherwise, the plot was carefully written, and the sequence of events was well played out. Although the movie tells most of the story’s main points, one might ask to what extent the story was researched, as we notice a few gaps, particularly in the beginning. Perhaps, a little bit more imagination and in-depth research, flashbacks to photos and videos of the real-life characters and events would have helped fill up these gaps. Whilst the cinematography, for the most part, was here and there, we simply cannot ignore the beauty of the shots in the climax of this movie. It would seem a lot more attention and focus were paid to the main events of the mob lynching, and needless to say, it paid off! It was simply brilliant, from the cinematography to the props, the setting, costumes, SFX, music, etc.! The movie did its best to capture that aspect of the story and told it as best as it could. It was captured in a way that would provoke all the right emotions, sadness, anger, pity, regret, etc. A little warning, if you are emotional, get ready for the waterworks. Dark October goes to show you how fickle life can sometimes be, the weight certain decisions carry on our lives and invokes a lot of what ifs. What if the boys didn’t go there? What if they didn’t go there at that particular time? What if someone spoke up and admitted to knowing the boys as students? What if the community chief stood his ground and exercised his leadership authority? So many what-ifs that could have changed the terrible outcome of that day. While we warn that this movie might be triggering for some, it comes highly recommended by us. It draws a new perspective and further enlightens you on the dangers of false accusations and why mob lynching/ jungle justice should never be a resort.

Washing your face is the first step in any skincare routine. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from your skin. Wash your face twice daily, once in the morning and before bed.

Moisturize Daily

Moisturizing is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a moisturizer that is

REVITALISING TONER FOR MEN

CLINIQUE

lightweight and non-greasy, and apply it to your face and neck after washing.

Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must for protecting your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays. Look for a broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it to your face and other exposed areas of your skin daily.

Consider Your Skin Type

Everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s important to consider your skin type when choosing skincare products. If you have oily skin, look for products that control oil and prevent breakouts. If you have dry skin, look for hydrating and nourishing products.

VITAMIN C SERUM

HYALURONIC ACID FOR MEN

DENOLA ‘GREY’’ ADEPETUN

KIEHLS MEN TONER OIL ELIMINATOR REFRESHING SHINE CONTROL TONER

MEN MOISTURISING CLEANSER

MEN MOISTURISING

NIVEA FACE WASH

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

THE

Sunday, March 12, 2023 Vol. 22, No. 10160

SURVIV By Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru

Dear Reader, Welcome to the WARIF Survivor Stories Series, a monthly feature, where stories of survivors of rape and sexual violence are shared to motivate and encourage survivors to speak their truth without the fear of judgment or stigmatization and to educate the public on the sheer magnitude of this problem in our society. The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) is a non-profit organization set up in response to the extremely high incidence of rape, sexual violence, and human trafficking of young girls and women in our society. WARIF is tackling this issue through a holistic approach that covers health, education, and community service initiatives. WARIF aids survivors of rape and sexual violence through the WARIF Centre - a haven where trained professionals are present full time, 6 days a week including public holidays to offer immediate medical care, forensic medical examinations, psycho-social counseling, and welfare services which include shelter, legal aid, and vocational skills training. These services are provided FREE of charge to any survivor who walks into the Centre. This is the story of Anita, a 22year survivor of rape. I am a student at one of the prestigious universities in Nigeria. I was on holiday when my mother insisted that I enroll in a fashion school temporarily to keep me busy until I resumed back to school. On one fateful afternoon, I left the fashion institute early and headed to my uncle’s bar on the Island. I had not seen Uncle Odita since I returned home and he was my favorite uncle from childhood, he had a pleasant personality and that endeared him to me. When I got to the bar, he was not around, so I called him, and he told me to give him an hour to join me and so I waited for him in the lounge so I would not be lonely. There were a few members of staff who knew me and asked if I wanted anything, I declined and responded that I would wait for my uncle to return before having any meal or drinks. Uncle Odita arrived late in the evening and told me he was famished, so his staff quickly made chips and chicken for us, and we sat down to eat and gist as the day began to turn dark. He asked for drinks to be served, whisky, vodka, and other alcoholic drinks, so I refused to drink. The Lounge got busy as more people came in after the close of work, so we moved to the VIP section with some of his friends joining us as they insisted that I wasn’t a child anymore and asked my uncle to mix whisky with soft drinks for me. My uncle refused because he knew I had never taken alcohol in my life. When they kept persuading him, Uncle Odita reluctantly agreed and then he mixed the whisky with soft drinks for me as I began to sip my drink into the night. My uncle called my parents that I was with him and that he would drop me off since it wasn’t the first time, I had stayed that late with my uncle, and they did not feel any concern.

As a matter of fact, my uncle was like an adopted son to my parents because he lived with my parents from childhood and he was in my household when I and my other two siblings were born, he only moved out when he got married about 5 years back and he had never given my parents or anyone reason to be worried. As I sipped on the drink, I began to get feel dizzy and drowsy and felt like throwing up, so I stood up and left for the restroom where I vomited and washed my face. I managed to come back, and my uncle noticed my face was red, and I lost consciousness, so he excused his friends and dragged me to his room because he had a reserved room which he normally passes the night anytime he’s unable to go home. He told me to lie down, turned the light off that I should sleep that the alcoholic will wear off before daybreak, and that he would be checking on me intermittently, then he left to rejoin his friends. I did not know how long I had slept when I slipped into consciousness and felt someone on top of me, having sex with me, I tried to push him off, but I was so weak from excessive vomiting earlier on, then I also tried to shout but my voice was so faint that no one could my cry. The perpetrator continued thrusting as I was slipping in and out of consciousness and I did not know when he left. I woke up late in the morning

and I felt pain in my vagina and tummy. I also saw blood stains on my pants because I had never had sex before and I prided myself that I will only lose my virginity when I get married. I slowly stood up to recollect the accounts of the night hoping that it was a nightmare that I needed to wake up from, but alas it was not a dream. I lay down again and suddenly, the door opened and then my uncle came in. He noticed the pain on my face, and he brought hot chocolate for me, I sipped a little of it and told him, someone raped me last night. He told me I must be joking but I showed him the bed sheet that had blood stains, then he quickly sent for his doctor, and she came in, checked me, and said he should report the incident to the nearest police station. The police came for an investigation and it was in the process that they asked to see the CCTV camera fortunately it was turned on, and they saw my uncle’s bosom friend Mr. Emeka sneak into the room in the middle of the night and stayed in for a long time, after which he also sneaked out. It was at that moment that my uncle said it must have been the time, he followed one of his other guests to the car and left Mr. Emeka alone and they spent quite some time talking in the car and when he returned, he didn’t meet Mr. Emeka on the seat and he was about to go check up on him when he showed up and said he went to use the toilet and he

told him, he needed to go home in a hurry that he just realized he wasn’t feeling too well. My uncle said he felt he had too many drinks, so he allowed him to go. The perpetrator was arrested by the police, and we were directed to WARIF RAPE CRISIS CENTRE at the police station. I arrived at the centre in a terrible state of mind because I was dealing with self-blame, anger, frustration, mood swing, and loss of appetite amongst others. To my amazement, the professionalism exhibited by the WARIF staff uplifted my spirit. I was medically accessed and treated by the medical personnel, and I also had psycho-social counseling sessions for free. At counseling sessions, I was encouraged and told that the rape incident was not my fault but entirely the fault of the perpetrator. The session helped to deal with my emotions, especially the animosity I had towards the perpetrator of the crime for taking away my virginity. I learned that it might have been worse if the perpetrator had gone ahead to arm me in my unconscious state and I was also taught coping mechanisms to deal with trauma issues. I left the centre with renewed hope and courage that I am an overcomer and that I can still live a fulfilled life despite the setback caused by the incident. The good news is that the perpetrator was charged to court and sent to jail for the crime committed against me. It’s been a year and six months now and I am in my finals and rounding up my project with a first-class grade in the last exams. Although I’m still evolving, I can boldly say that the future is indeed very bright for me and I’m using this medium to thank the counselor and everyone at WARIF centre without which my healing journey would not have been possible. Thank you to the WARIF Team.

THINGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW BY THE TIME SHE’S 40

2. You are stronger than you think. 3. It’s okay to say no. 4. Self-care is essential for your mental and physical health. 5. Embrace your uniqueness and individuality. 6. Don’t compare yourself to others. 7. Failure is a natural part of life and an opportunity to learn. 8. Surround yourself with positive people who lift you up. 9. Forgiveness is essential for personal growth. 10. Life is unpredictable, and it’s essential to be adaptable. 11. Money management is crucial for long-term financial stability. 12. Your health is your most important asset. 13. Good communication is key to healthy relationships. 14. Prioritize quality over quantity in friendships. 15. Taking risks can lead to great rewards. 16. Be open-minded and willing to learn new things. 17. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. 18. Confidence comes from within and is not dependent on external validation.

Turning 40 is a significant milestone for any woman. It’s a time to reflect on past experiences, celebrate accomplishments, and look ahead to the future. It’s also an excellent opportunity to take stock of what you know and still need to learn. It is difficult to provide an exhaustive list of everything a woman should know by the time, she’s 40 as each person’s experiences and circumstances are unique, however, here are some general suggestions. One thing you should remember is that every woman’s journey is different. The most important thing is to strive for a balanced and fulfilling life.

19. Embrace change and see it as an opportunity for growth. 20. Don’t let fear hold you back from trying new things. 21. Trust your instincts. 22. Practice gratitude daily. 23. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. 24. Comparison is the thief of joy. 25. Learning to set boundaries is essential for healthy relationships. 26. Respect yourself enough to walk away from toxic relationships. 27. Time is your most valuable resource; use it wisely. 28. You can’t control other people’s actions, but you can control your reaction to them. 29. It’s never too late to apologize and make amends. 30. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. 31. Take care of your physical health by exercising regularly and eating well. 32. Learning to listen is essential for effective communication. 33. Don’t let your past define your future. 34. Life is a journey, not a destination. 35.Your worth is not determined by your job title or salary. 36. It’s okay to take a break and recharge when you need it. 37. Practice self-reflection to learn from past mistakes and improve in the future. 38. Your self-worth is not dependent on your relationship status.

Dear survivor, please know that you are not alone and it is not your fault. Help is available. If you have been raped or you know someone who has, please visit us at The WARIF Centre - 6, Turton Street, off Thorburn Avenue, Sabo, Yaba or call our 24-hour confidential helpline on 08092100009. For questions or more information please contact: info@warifng.org

1. You are responsible for your own happiness.

MONICA AWE ETUK

39. Embrace your imperfections and see them as part of what makes you unique. 40. Be kind to yourself and others.