THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 9TH OCTOBER 2022 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

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

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2022

BUSOLA TEJUMOLA

TELLING THE AFRICAN STORY

EDITOR’S LETTER

COVER NOTE

CONTENT

As Executive head of Content and West Africa Channels, Dr Busola Tejumola is breaking new ground and frontiers in storytelling. In this Interview with FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI, Tejumola speaks about her role at Multichoice, the future of cable TV and the rise of streaming platforms/ Subscription Video on Demand.

Society M.A.C X TIWA SAVAGE

Tiwa Savage recently made history being the first African to be a MAC Maker, and to celebrate this, two events were held in her honour. First was unveiling the limited-edition lipstick, which took the Mac Maker two years to create and the press gathering held at the Art hotel in Lagos.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Finishing Strong

S yle EXECUTIVE EDITOR KONYE NWABOGOR 08111847087

Lifestyle & Fashion Ten Things This Week 7 Five Refreshing Ways To Wear a Basic White Shirt Movie Review ANIKULAPO 10 ‘Gen Z’ Fashion Trends That Are Actually Recycled Craving Art? Here Are Five Galleries You Could Visit. How Adebayo Oke-Lawal Is Challenging Fashion

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE EDITOR OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI 08111847086 VISUAL/SENIOR DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500

GUEST CORRESPONDENT YOMI OWOPE

CONTRIBUTORS AZUKA OGUJIUBA DIDEE ETA AYO LAWAL BUKOLA AMOBOYE

16 20

PHOTOGRAPHER @TY BELLO

DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

@thisdaystyle |

don’t know if this is everyone, but I feel like I blinked and found myself in the last quarter of the year. Like we literally went from Happy Valentine’s to prepping for ‘’2023 loading’’ insta posts. So far, it’s been a very eventful year, at least for me. On the flip side, it’s also been hectic with all that’s currently happening in the country. I don’t want to rush time, but I 100% look forward to 2023. What I don’t want, though, is for any of us to slide out of the 4th quarter a chaotic mess. My hopes are that we all end this year strong to prepare for what is coming in 2023. Typically at this time, it’s not unusual to look back to what we set out to accomplish at the beginning of the year. Many of us have moved some New Year’s resolutions and goals into our win column. For those who haven’t, not to worry; you still have sufficient time to make progress on something meaningful. Our cover interview delves into the all-popular argument of streaming platforms eventually taking over Broadcast TV. Everyone I have had this conversation with has had different opinions for different reasons. One thing is sure, though; Content is King! And so, as the population ages and streaming becomes even more prevalent, broadcasters must evolve. And they are doing that already - the large players in broadcast TV are getting in on the streaming game - Think Showmax and, of course, Arise Play. I believe that broadcast will be around for a while, but the clear trend shows that streaming will eventually take over. What are you up to later today? You could try doing something different, like visiting an Art gallery, even if just to appreciate Art. We have a list of Five must-visit galleries here in Lagos. If you don’t reside in Lagos, I am sure your city does have a few interesting Art spots. Whatever you do, make sure to start the week exploring. Read a book, listen to a podcast, be positive, have a curious outlook and stay winning. Love,

@thisdaystyleon | www.thisdaystyle.ng

Konye

WWW.ARISEPLAY.COM @ariseplay

VISIT THE WEBSITE; DOWNLOAD THE APP &

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Law Enforcement

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

SOCIETY

STYLE

M.A.C X TIWA SAVAGE.

CHIDERA UDEH

By Funke Babs-Kufeji

being iwa Savage recently made history er, and to the first African to be a MAC Mak in her held e celebrate this, two events wer ted-edition honour. First was unveiling the limi rs to create yea two lipstick, which took the Mac Maker Art hotel in Lagos. and the press gathering held at the first in Nigeria and All specially invited guests were the tick and had a Africa to see the Limited-edition lips collaboration with chance to speak to Tiwa about her a bright red matte MAC. The limited edition lipstick is NGN 16,000 and is called @T iwa Savage; it retails for and Abuja. available in MAC stores in Lagos

MOCHEDDAH, GBEMI AND OLAKUNBI

AMANDA OSIKILO

TIWA SAVAGE

ANNIE IDIBIA

ANITA BROWS

BANKE MESHIDA LAWAL

LINDA OSIFO

EKI OGUNBOR & ISABELLA

FRANCES THEODORE

ANAEDUM MARYJANE

ENADO ODIGIE

BOLANLE OLUKANNLE

NNENNA OKOYE & ARESE

OSAS IGHODORO

BYBRONX

CHIOMA NWACHUKWU

GOLIBE

ITSEJU

KAYLAH ONIWO & ENIOLUWA

SOPHIA & OZINNA ANUMUDU

EFETOMMY, CYNTHIA AND MERCY EKE

LEBO & SIPHE

TOLU BALLY

TAYMI B

JAMEEN JUDE

KABIRE MEWALGA

LILLIAN PAUL

MUNIQ

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

DAPO ABIODUN GIFTS TOBI AMUSAN N5M AND HOUSE

FG SUES META, OWNERS OF FACEBOOK AND WHATSAPP

he Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria says it has lodged a suit against Meta Platforms Incorporated (owners of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp platforms) and its agent AT3 Resources Limited at the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division. The regulatory body is seeking a declaration regarding the continued publication and exposure of various advertisements directed at the Nigerian market without ensuring the same is vetted and approved before exposure is illegal, unlawful and a violation of the extant advertising Law in Nigeria. ARCON is seeking N30bn in sanction for violating the advertising laws and for loss of revenue due to Meta Incorporated’s continued exposure of unapproved adverts on its platforms.

PHYNA IS THE BBNAIJA SEASON 7 WINNER.

ADEBAYO OKE LAWAL MAKES THE BOF 500 LIST.

debayo Oke Lawal, the Nigerian designer behind the Orange Culture Brand, made the BOF 500 list. Adebayo is at the vanguard of a movement challenging gendered fashion and blending traditional aesthetics with universal streetwear silhouettes. The BOF 500 list consists of people shaping the global fashion industry. It is curated by The Business of Fashion editors, based on nominations and onthe-ground intelligence from around the world.

NIGERIAN OSCARS COMMITTEE DISQUALIFY ANIKULAPO

he Nigeria Oscars selection committee has disqualified Kunle Afolayan’s newly released movie, ‘Anikulapo,’ from the nomination list of the Academy Awards, better known as the Oscars. Announcing the development on social media, the Nigerian actor and producer also expressed his disappointment. “I am so pleased and delighted that the whole world has decided to tag ANIKULAPO film “a masterpiece “even though the Nigeria Oscar selection committee think it’s not worth submitting for the Oscars. Will keep doing my own thing”. Last month, Nigeria’s Oscar Selection Committee announced they had received three Yoruba-language submissions: Aníkúlápó, Elesin Oba, The King’s Horseman and King of Thieves. The committee ruled that the movies would not enter the competition as a majority of members voted that all three films were “non-eligible.

hyna, aka Josephina Otabor, has emerged winner of the television reality show Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Season 7, taking home prizes worth N100 million. She edged out five other finalists – Bryan, Bella, Adekunle, Chichi and Daniella – to clinch the coveted status of the winner of this year’s season tagged ‘Level Up’. The 25-year-old gets N 60 million cash prize, a new SUV from Innoson Motors, a Dubai trip for two, a year supply of Pepsi, a new techno phone Camon 19, a supply of Unik soap and a supply of home appliances from Nexus, among other mouth-watering prizes.

ASA SUES JOEBOY OVER COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT

igerian singer, Bukola Elemide, popularly known as Asa, has issued a copyright infringement notice to Joeboy following the release of his song, ‘Contour’. In a letter sent by her lawyers and to Joeboy (Joseph Akinwale AkinfenwaDonus), which he posted on his Instagram Story, she revealed accusations of a copyright suit stemming from the composition of Joeboy’s record. She also demanded from him the sum of N300 million, a 60% publishing split on the song, a written apology and asked that he immediately remove the song from all digital streaming platforms within 24 hours.

TEMS WINS BMI IMPACT AWARD.

frobeat sensational singer/songwriter Temilade Openiyi’ Tems’ recently took home one of the biggest awards at the annual BMI London Awards. She won the Impact Prize, which spotlights and honours leading songwriters, composers, and music publishers in the UK and Europe. The BMI Film & TV Awards are awards presented annually by UK-based performance rights organisation Broadcast Music, Inc.(BMI), honouring songwriters, composers, and music publishers in various genres.

gun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced a cash reward of N5 million and a house to the World, Commonwealth and African 100 metres hurdles, Oluwatobi Amusan. Gov Abiodun described Amusan as a role model to the girl-child and a practical example of a truism that what a man can do, a woman can even do better. He also named her the Ogun State Sports Ambassador.”

FG APPROVES ASUU FACTION, CONUA, AS AN ACADEMIC UNION

ollowing the disagreement between the federal government and the Academic Union of the Universities, ASUU, FG has presented a certificate of registration to the Congress of Nigerian University Academics, a separate body of academic unions. CONUA is a separate body of academic unions with a presence in a few federal universities. It is led by its National Coordinator, ‘Niyi Sunmonu, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

OZINNA ANUMUDU LAUNCHES CAPSULE COLLECTION IN COLLABORATION WITH PRIVATE LABEL.

ENTRIES FOR BIG BROTHER TITANS ARE OPEN.

ashion Enthusiast and Entrepreneur Ozinna Anumudu has launched a capsule collection with Women’s wear brand – Private Label. The collection, which would sell exclusively on her online fashion retail platform Ozinna. com has a clean, unfussy aesthetic focused on extreme wearability. Speaking on the collection, Ozinna says, ‘’I am always excited to have capsule collections on the website featuring some of my favourite fashion brands. With Private Label, the plan was to create an easy assortment of wardrobe essentials with modern, current details. My personal style comes through in all the pieces, from the casual comfy ones to the more elevated pieces”.

ollowing the announcement of the Big Brother Season 7 winner, MNet is set to bring even more drama-filled entertainment to our TV as the brand has asked members of the public to send in entries for the Big Brother Titans. It will be a new season of the popular Big Brother franchise, but with a twist: Big Brother Titans will feature brand new contestants from Nigeria and South Africa. All entrants must be 21 years of age by 30 October 2022 and must be a South African or Nigerian citizen or a permanent resident of either country.

NEWS

Ten Things This Week

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

FIVE REFRESHING WAYS TO WEAR A BASIC WHITE SHIRT

with

Ayo Lawal

By Charles Didee Eta

The number one wardrobe staple, a white buttondown shirt is easy to mix and match with other items and pulls your look together in a finger snap. This week get your styling inspiration from the influencer-approved fashion lover Yvonne Nwosu who shows us five ways for women to rock this ubiquitous piece and stand out in style.

Collegiate Chic The usual go-to fit for the white shirt would be with pencil-fitted pants. Try a more relaxed fit for that college girl vibe for a refreshing alternative.

THE PRESSURE IS GETTING ‘’WESSER’’!!! “Am I Enough? Or I Am Enough!

COLUMN

FASHION

A-Gen theayolawal@gmail.com

FASHION

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

Sporty Finish

A white button-down shirt would work nicely with a denim jacket, matching denim shorts with different blue hues, and sporty shoes. This look would be perfect for casual and party events.

Yes, to the 70s

Bright-coloured leather-fitting pants? YES!!! And what pairing would go best with this 70s wardrobe staple than the ubiquitous white shirt? Keep all other accessories to a minimum and lets the pants take centre stage.

Laid back Elegance

You don’t have to pair your white shirt with tailored pants to achieve an elegant look. You can opt for a laid-back version of that with a bright coloured skirt. A little show of skin will take this look from dowdy to daring.

DAISY HANDFIELD, FRANCES THEODORE, SANCHAN ELEGUSHI

Oversized Clothing

A personal favourite for the Gen Z’s, a white shirt worn with baggy ripped jeans and sneakers is the ultimate cool. It somehow manages to give off an androgynous yet relaxed vibe. This works best for mainly casual outings.

“I am enough,” a three-word sentence that carries exceptional weight. For some people, it’s the default to know their worth. But for others, not quite. So what is the meaning of “I am enough”? Why is it so important, and how do you build a strong sense of worthiness in our daily lives? As an affirmation, knowing the meaning of “I am enough” creates a concrete picture in your mind. It tells your brain how to act and react in different situations and when to shut down your inner doubting voice. If you struggle to own your enoughness, you may first need to know what the phrase means to internalize it better. “I am enough” means to accept your flaws whole-heartedly Without self-acceptance, you will always be struggling with your identity. But when you know you are enough, you can finally be at peace with your flaws, imperfections, and mistakes. When you know you are enough, you stop attaching your worth to your body shape, appearance, or bank account number. Instead, what you see are the qualities you have, your talent, and your potential. You believe you are loved even when you are not perfect, and no one else is. You don’t need to be perfect to be loved or accepted. So if you still doubt your enoughness, try asking yourself, “where do I shine?” And when you have the answer, do everything in your power to let it shine brighter. How do I know I don’t have feelings of

enoughness? We don’t know what we don’t know. For example, you may think you are confident until someone criticizes you. You may feel like you know your worth until a terrible relationship makes you doubt your value. It’s always better to be prepared and fix those limiting beliefs before they come to affect your life. So here are the signs that you don’t think you are enough and may have some inner work to do. ● You question your worth in the presence of negative comments. ● You desperately try to change your body and your appearance. ● Sometimes, you avoid opportunities or people just because you think they are too good for you. ● You believe you can only be truly happy when you are slim/wealthy/married. ● In your mind, everything is fixed. And you don’t think you can be better than you are now. ● You have an urgency to prove yourself to others. ● Sometimes, you sacrifice your time or mental well-being for other people. ● You assume that people only approach or play nice to take advantage of you.

So, how do you own your enoughness? What can you do if you are not embracing your worth now? Do what makes you — not other people — happy. Feeling like you’re not enough can sometimes lead you to take on certain friends, hobbies, projects or jobs that you think will make you look good in other people’s estimation. “When was the last time you did something not because it’s going to show up on your resume, not because it meets that condition of worth you’re wrestling with, but just because you enjoyed it?” . When you meet new people, go beyond your job, title or school. It’s almost impossible to be out — Lagos especially — without hearing these five words “so what do you do?” If we’d like to remove the judgment associated with the question, we can also change how we respond to it. How do you respond to this? Even I don’t know. Recognize the value you have — period! Believing you’re enough does not mean that you should lower the bar for what you’d like to accomplish in life. Recognizing our inherent self-worth does not mean we’ll be full of self-importance. An inflated sense of self-esteem sounds like ‘I can do it, I’m the best, whether or not that’s true. Inherent value, however, sounds more like ‘This is important to me. I will do my best, but this doesn’t define me.’

COVER

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

BUSOLA TEJUMOLA TELLING THE AFRICAN STORY

As Executive head of Content and West Africa Channels, Dr Busola Tejumola is breaking new ground and frontiers in storytelling. Her role sees her leading a team of creatives to create one-of-a-kind content for Africa Magic and Akwaaba Channels on the Multichoice DSTV cable television platform. Her knowledge and expertise in the Cable TV sector, which spans over a decade, has seen her successfully lead her team to rebirth one of the most sought-after and watched show in Nigeria, Big Brother Naija. Moving the show’s production from South Africa to Nigeria successfully and giving it a more indigenous look and feel for the Nigerian audience. In this Interview with FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI, Tejumola speaks about her role at Multichoice, the future of cable TV and the rise of streaming platforms/ Subscription Video on Demand. How did you get involved in cable television? And what was the journey like to becoming the Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels for Multichoice? My educational and career journey has been quite interesting. I studied Computer Science as my first degree and have since completed an M.Sc. from the University of Surrey and a PhD in MIS from Brunel University, UK, focusing on change management. In between these degrees, I have attended several training and leadership programs that have provided a firm background in leadership, strategy and content creation. Before joining Multichoice, I enjoyed a successful Tech and Business Development career. I joined Multichoice in 2012 as the Consumer Insights Manager. I progressed as the Head of Strategy, General Manager Production at Africa Magic to Executive Head of Content, with a recently expanded portfolio to include the Africa Magic channels in Nigeria and Akwaaba Channels in Ghana. These previous roles at Multichoice certainly set a great foundation for the role of the Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels. It has been an interesting year in this role. My focus is to acquire, commission, and produce the best local content in line with our hyper-local content strategy for our seven Africa Magic channels and our two Akwaaba Channels for Ghana.

photo credit TY BELLO

Speaking of content creation, whats your strategy? Amidst the avalanche of content competing for an individual’s time, it has been proven over time that what captures the attention and loyalty of an audience is the ability to create content that appeals to the audience’s needs. The Africa Magic and Akwaaba channels do not just satisfy the audience’s diverse needs; they continue to provide content that the audience didn’t realise they needed. We rely heavily on data to understand the market trends and needs, then invest in the right people and infrastructure to deliver great content that cuts across different segments of the market. We work with the best and most experienced producers and talent whilst ensuring we continue to provide the support and platform for new talent, which keeps the ecosystem going. With our years of experience and entrenchment in the market, we produce the best Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Pidgin, Twi or English content across a variety of genres. Tell us about some of the original content you created, and which has been the most successful. No one person creates a show, it takes a whole team, and I am privileged to work with some of the best teams of creatives. As the Head of Production, I led the teams that produced shows like Battleground, Ajoche, and Eve. Recently, we also created the widely loved Nigerian Idol S7 with judges Dbanj, Simi and Obi Asika. We have also produced Africa Magic’s first game show Come Play Naija, as well as Originals like Movement Japa, Dilemma and Venge. From October 3, Africa magic will have brand new shows – Covenant, Itura, Ricordi, Off-Air with Gbemi and Toolz, Lahira and Africa Magic Original movies. Also, for the first time in its history, the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCAs) debuted an eight-day industry engagement and awards event that not only recognised and rewarded excellence in the TV & Film industry but also acknowledged, celebrated and trained other adjacent industries in the creative space. The eight days featured events like the Opening Gala, The Multichoice Talent Factory Young Film Maker’s, Digital Content Creators, Food & Culture, Fashion Runway, Nominees Gala, and the Main Awards day with attendance from the African Continent and Hollywood. On Akwaaba Magic, we have produced hit series like Inspector Bediako, High Currency, Sankofa and Dede. Brand New shows to look out for include Dirty Laundry, The Osei’s and The Market Queens. The Big Brother Naija show has been one of Multichoice’s biggest and most successful content, and it seems the show gets even more viewers each year. Since you took over as

Head of Content, what has been your contribution to the show? It takes a village and the best creative teams to produce the Big Brother show (or any piece of content we produce at Africa magic and Akwaaba). Leading these high-functioning teams is one of the highlights of my role. I have been a part of the Big Brother Naija project since 2017, first as the Head of Production at Africa Magic and then as the project manager since 2019. I was instrumental in moving the production from South Africa to Nigeria. Over the last two seasons of BBN as the Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels, the show has continued to deliver the year-on-year growth it has enjoyed. Last season, the show recorded over 1.3bn votes, the highest so far, showing the level of engagement with the season—the current Season 7 trended nicely. For the first time in its history, the show featured two houses, a swimming pool and gameplay that has kept the audience highly engaged. This season’s creative has been unpredictable, and the engagement showed significant viewership and voting trends. The BBN show also started airing on Showmax, making it accessible to fans in Africa, the UK and the Republic of Ireland. It has been debated that the Big Brother show is a breeding ground for lazy youths looking for a get-rich-quick, easy scheme, and the content is filled with moral decadence, which isn’t in line with the Nigerian culture. What are your thoughts on this? Reality shows are good viewership and engagement drivers. This concept holds true as MultiChoice and Africa Magic have produced successful reality shows across genres over the last two decades. Big Brother is a licensed international format broadcast across the world. What differentiates Big Brother Naija and what we believe drives the level of engagement the show generates is that we have created a unique version that showcases culture, truly resonates with, and excites the Nigerian audience. Every Big Brother Naija season leaves our viewers with great memories and creates new stars, from celebrities to iconic moments and fascinating elements of the show. Big Brother Naija is a contributor to the growth of the economy. This year, production costs for the show rose to over N4.5billion, including licensing, auditing, marketing and remodelling, and production. The show is also a conduit for talent contributing to the creative industry and the nation’s GDP. Beyond the entertainment value, which is evident to all, what other value(s) does BBNaija offer? Big Brother Naija is more than just entertainment. It is a vehicle for social and economic value creation. Any show that runs round-the-clock for ten weeks brings a lot of value to any economy, and BBNaija’s case is no different. It contributes to the growth of the Nigerian economy and the creative industry. This season alone, we employed over 1,200 people directly and indirectly, and to date, we have empowered over 14,000 across various sectors. Production costs for the level-up season rose to over N4.7billion, including licensing, auditing, marketing, remodelling and production charges. So evidently, many businesses in fashion, design, Amidst the avalanche construction, photography, content creation, of content competing interior decoration, and media, amongst othfor an individual’s time, ers, are empowered and engaged because of the show. BBNaija is also a pipeline for uniquely it has been proven gifted individuals who enrich the creative indusover time that what try. We see former housemates easily break into captures the attention different aspects of the creative sector every and loyalty of an year because they leveraged the BBNaija platform’s opportunities. While it is entertaining, it is audience is the ability a show that hugely impacts the lives of people, to create content businesses, and the economy.

that appeals to the audience’s needs. 15

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

COVER

almost everyone goes home with a tangible gift or cash prize.

M VIE REVIEW

We’re all aware that streaming platforms are rapidly eclipsing traditional television; what is multichoice doing to ensure that it doesn’t become obsolete due to the rise of streaming platforms? Streaming platforms are creating more options for producing and consuming information or content. MultiChoice saw this opportunity early on, which gave rise to Showmax. These are exciting times for the Subscription Video on Demand (SVoD) industry in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. The technological infrastructures, manpower and creative resources are now readily available in our landscape hence the advent of these platforms. As a major player, MultiChoice, through its Connected Video platforms, which include DStv Now and Showmax, is strategically positioned at the centre of this emerging sector.

ANIKULAPO IS A REMINDER OF KUNLE AFOLAYAN’S MASTER STORY TELLING SKILLS.

With so much competition in streaming and platforms creating originals, what’s your strategy and positioning for standing out? We are very intentional about telling stories Nigerians love and identify with. This reflects in our stellar production values and how we work closely with local talents and capabilities to ensure our identities as Africans are preserved and portrayed the way they should be. We are witnessing a delightful growth in the paying subscriber base of Showmax. And we are also committed to developing a strong local Nigerian strategy that is right for this fast-changing environment. Do you envision a day when Cable TV, “as we know it,” won’t exist anymore? What we are experiencing now is democratisation of content through the available platforms and how people consume their video entertainment. Across the different market segments, family/communal viewing is still entrenched in our culture, evident in the increase in TV Households. Though now more affordable, data costs are still individualistic for viewing content. However, with as low as N1900 per month, a GOtv or DStv subscriber can view a variety of content that caters to the whole household. If it ever happens, though I do not envision it happening in a few decades, we are always at the forefront of innovation. We will continue to play actively in the Nigerian creative industry. You are passionate about female education. How has your role at Multichoice reflected this, or do you have special projects for this cause? My role in Multichoice has expanded my thinking horizon towards girls who have set their eyes and paths towards the content space but have no way to go about it. I am privileged to have been involved in charities such as Cornerstone, where mentoring ladies is a key function.

Phyna has emerged as the winner of BBNaija Season 7. In your own opinion, did she deserve the win and why? BBNaija this year attracted over 40,000 entries. So, selecting the final housemates who made it into Biggie’s house was arduous, as we could only take 28 people. Once on the show, the power to retain or evict housemates rests solely with the viewers. With their votes, they decided who they wanted to see till day 72 or who they wanted to leave. The viewers decided that Phyna entertained them, deserved to win the show, and voted massively for her. We had over 1 billion votes this year, and whoever got crowned the winner reflected the viewers’ choice.

Big Brother Naija is more than just entertainment. It is a vehicle for social and economic value creation. Any show that runs round-theclock for ten weeks brings a lot of value to any economy, and BBNaija’s case is no different.

Does MultiChoice have any plans to change the winner-takes-all model of BBNaija and redistribute some wins to other housemates? Big Brother is a licenced international format, and while there are some elements of the format that can be localized, some elements are standardized, and the winner-takes-all is one of those. What we have done with BBNaija is to retain the model but create avenues for winning with the sponsored tasks. Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, housemates won over N100m in tasks. This way, it’s a win-win as

In your own opinion, why is it important for the girl child to be educated? Education is essential for all human interactions. Whether formal, as captured in educational systems or informal, as seen in the apprentice system. However, the girl child, especially in many rural, or economically disadvantaged societies, is usually left out of getting a formal education because it is erroneously believed she will not need it. This is based on the societal misconception that her ‘place’ is to raise the family and do other ‘womanly’ duties. Ensuring the girl-child gets quality education benefits individuals, communities, and economies. Better educated women tend to be more active in the formal labour market and earn higher incomes. I believe they are also more informed and have a broader range of options compared to being stuck in the traditional roles societies assign to the female gender. Ultimately, I believe the girl-child education will help achieve the elusive gender equality society strives for. What is your advice for young men and women building their careers? I believe in passion, hard work and consistency. Consistently invest in yourself and your career, and always ensure you add value at every step. The journey to that executive position is as important as the position itself, so make it count. Lastly, can you tell us what style means to you? Style is what works for you, what you are comfortable in. I like to believe my style is trendy yet simple. I only wear what I am comfortable in. I like to keep it minimal.

By Bukola Amoboye

Anikulapo is Kunle Afolayan’s latest film in partnership with Netflix. The star-studded movie was released on Netflix and in Nigerian cinemas simultaneously on the 30th of September, and fans can’t seem to stop raving about it! Kunle Afoloyan is known for his use of cultural aesthetics in storytelling, and Anikulapo doesn’t fall short of his usual style. Anikulapo follows the story of a young man known as Saro (Kunle Remi) and his life’s journey upon entering the ancient Oyo Kingdom. Saro’s journey takes him through two kings’ palaces, three wives and a supernatural ability to raise the dead. His ability to raise the dead earns him the name, Anikulapo, but it later leads to his downfall when his desires become insatiable. It is basically a case of ‘don’t bite more than you can chew’. The movie is set in the pre-colonial Oyo Empire and beautifully displays the richness of the Yoruba culture. It gives you a glimpse into the simplicity of the lives of Nigerians pre-colonisation; from the songs to the language, costumes, hair and makeup, dance, etc., there was everything to love! It almost makes you wish you could go back in time and experience that richness, even if it be for five minutes. We see Kunle Afolayan as the master of storytelling as he gracefully uses narration to drive the story. The narration, alongside the sound and visual effects, acting, cinematography, and music, were some of the most laudable things about the movie. The lead actor Kunle Remi gives a stellar performance as Saro. The way he was able to morph into his character completely is nearly unbelievable. However, one could argue that the chemistry between him and Bimbo Ademoye(Arolake), who played Saro’s main love interest, felt a little forced. Of course, that could also be blamed

on the multiple huge time jumps in the movie. But in many of their scenes together, they seemed more like friends than lovers. Featuring many Yoruba veteran actors was also probably one of the best decisions Kunle Afolayan made in this movie. It was indeed thrilling and a bit nostalgic to see veterans like Taiwo Hassan, Kareem Adepoju, Adewale Elesho, Fathia Balogun, Yinka Quadri, Dele Odule, Adebayo Salami and many more, all together on a mainstream platform. Sola Sobowale as Awarun is also a worthy mention. Although the audience might have issues with the huge time jumps that seemed to mess a little with the build of the plot, one could see that a lot of thought went into the movie during editing. The 2 hours and 22 minutes long movie seemed to have dragged on somewhere in the middle, but then again, it isn’t quite easy figuring out what to put in a film and what to cut out, especially when there’s a lot to show. Overall, the movie is a welcome breath of fresh air from the numerous below-par movies that have been released by Nollywood this year. We’re looking forward to seeing the movie rake in multiple awards at the next AMVCA, and maybe, just maybe, Kunle Remi might get his first AMVCA for Best Actor in a lead role.

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013 By Bukola Amoboye

10 ‘GEN Z’ FASHION TRENDS THAT ARE ACTUALLY RECYCLED

Front-knot Crop Top

Crop tops always go in and out of fashion with some recycled twists. These days, scarf or rope-like crop tops seem quite popular among Gen Z. This is just like the late 90s and early 2000s, which were also laced with halter necks and front-knot crop tops, usually paired with highwaist jeans. AGOLDE

STAUD FENDI PRADA

Bucket Hats

ROSAMOSARIO GUCCI

This accessory has somehow found its way into every other decade and depending on how they’re paired, they have a way of giving off a laid-back and relaxed vibe.

AGOLDE

HADIZA LAWAL

Baguette Handbags

These unique handbags make a cute statement but are also not new. They dominated world fashion in the late 90s and early 2000s. If you look at old music videos and red-carpet photos, you will surely see some of your favourites rocking them.

ADUKE SHITTA BEY

Corsets

These can be traced as far back as the Elizabethan era of the fifteenth and sixteenth century and were worn by women to make them look much slimmer and highlight their bust area. Corsets made a gradual comeback some years ago. They are now a very common sight on every fashion IT girl.

FASHION

Gen Zs are fast-paced and notorious for many things, but one can’t deny their unique sense of style. This generation chooses to define their own normal, which is evident in their fashion. While many of their trends draw inspiration from older trends, they possess a unique capability of owning and fusing their personalities into them, making these styles look fresh and new.

Mom Jeans

Also known as boot-cut or flare jeans, these jeans have been around for a while. They went out of style for a short time, paving the way for skinny jeans and then resurfaced again to dominate the fashion scene. These days you can pair them with everything from crop tops to tight-fitting tops, oversized t-shirts, corsets, etc.

ONYII BEKEH LOULOU STUDIO

STAUD

NILI LOTAN

ARAFAT ADELE

Colour Blocking

Long Socks

It’s ironic that millennials hated this trend, so ankle socks were more popular. But Gen Z struck again, bringing back long socks that were popular in the colonial era.

OFF WHITE

Slip Dresses

These dresses are known for giving off a sexy vibe without making it look like you’re trying too hard. It was popular in the late 90s and early 2000s. Like the baguette bags, some of your favourite 90s celebrities wore these classic dresses in their music videos or on the red carpet. FISAYO LONGE

Statement Glasses

Sunglasses are musthaves these days, and not necessarily for blocking out the sun. There has been a resurgence of coloured glasses with either huge or tiny frames. Or just anything not regular.

Gen Z took colour blocking to a new level and are notorious for rocking outfits with a blend of all sorts of colours, from bright or dull, to monochrome or even rocking neon glow-in-the-dark outfits.

ANNA MASON

Prints and Patterns

THE ROW

BALENCIAGA

ESI , TAIYE AKPOTU, GLADYS NSAN, VIVIAN OSUJI , OKE MADUW

ONYINYE ACHOM

ANGEL OBASI

Outfits with coloured patterns and fun prints are popular amongst this generation, but they also draw inspiration from older fashion trends. Some of our parents regularly wore prints and patterned clothing from the 60s to 80s. They slowly started making a comeback last decade in the form of vintage shirts. However, this unique generation has fully assimilated it and become even more daring with it.

NANUSHKA LOEWE

CELINE

FENDI

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

CRAVING ART?

HERE ARE FIVE GALLERIES YOU COULD VISIT IN LAGOS Whether you’re looking for gorgeous paintings, mind-boggling sculptures or thought-provoking installations, these galleries have the goods. The best part? While you may be unable to afford to make a purchase, perusing these galleries to enjoy amazing works of art is free.

NIKE DAVIES OKUNDAYE

Nike Art Gallery.

DENRELE SONARIWO

There’s no way to talk about the art scene in Lagos without mentioning Nike Art Gallery. Not your average art gallery, this massive centre hosts over 8,000 works from African artists—and it’s accessible to the public. The centre was founded by Nike Davies-Okundaye, who grew up steeped in her family’s culture of textile making, dyeing, weaving, and painting. She’s been credited with teaching thousands of young Nigerian artists over the last 40 years and providing exhibition space for showing works.

Rele Gallery.

Founded in 2015 to act as a critical interface between the African and international art worlds, Rele Gallery, according to its founder, Adenrele Sonariwo, “is a dynamic contemporary art gallery with two locations between Lagos, Nigeria and Los Angeles, USA. ‘’We represent and exhibit a fine selection of emerging and established artists working across diverse media in Africa and the diaspora”.

Red Door Gallery

With one of the largest private art gallery spaces in Nigeria, Red Door Gallery is a place for art lovers, art collectors, consultants, and connoisseurs. The gallery has, over time, become known as a space for the unconventional. They are exclusively focused on African art and provide artists with a platform for creativity beyond social boundaries. Their roster includes Peju Alatise, Cyril Oma, Adewale Fatai, James Moore, Olu Spencer, Lemi Ghariokwu and Victor Ehikhamenor.

RELE GALLERY

Art Twenty 21.

Omenka Gallery.

Having directed Lagos Photo Festival 2010, Caline Chagoury went on to initiate Echo Art, an art consultancy firm aiming, in her words, “to promote and position the value of contemporary art from across Nigeria and Africa.” Art Twenty One is the inaugural project of Echo Art, which has held radical, bold and experimental exhibitions by Nigerian artists Olu Amoda and Odun Orimolade. Located in Victoria Island, Lagos, the Eko Hotel and Suites, it is currently one of the most modern art and gallery space that Lagos has to offer. This is not an institution that pays homage to heritage but is young, fresh and bold.

ART 21 LAGOS

LOST-PANELS BY PEJU ALATISE

Omenka Gallery was established in 2003 by Nigerian artist and curator Oliver Enwonwu, the son of Ben Enwonwu (1917-1994), one of Nigeria’s leading 20th-century modernists. It is housed in Enwonwu’s former home and holds one of the renowned artists’ most extensive and best art collections. They also represent artists such as Abass Kelani, Cedric Nunn, Dominique Zinkpè, Ima Mfon and Nnenna Okore.

OMENKA GALLERY

ART BY BEN ENWONU

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

HOW ADEBAYO OKE-LAWAL IS CHALLENGING THE TRADITIONAL NOTION SURROUNDING GENDERED FASHION.

LIFESTYLE

FASHION

By Charles Didee Eta

It’s no longer a secret that Adebayo Oke-Lawal’s style and clothing brand Orange Culture brings about discussion on androgyny, modernized African attires and general diversity in the fashion industry. Lately, his creative exploits have been making waves both locally and on the global scene for being able to create for an inclusive crowd that for a long time had been in dire need of representation. “Orange Culture is a brand that represents accepting individual expressions of self without limitations. Orange Culture is a brand that fights for individuality and celebrates a new age of liberation.” A finance graduate from the University of Lagos, Bayo has always dreamed of designing clothes from as young as ten years old, but little did he know that there were a lot of obstacles he needed to deal with to attain his present status. “I had to intern a lot and watch a lot of videotapes to teach myself - I couldn’t afford or access fashion schools, and fashion wasn’t something Nigerian parents had experienced seeing success in, in their generation - so I could not convince them to believe in sending me to fashion school “, he says in an interview with Vogue Czechoslovakia. Fresh out of school, he started working in the capacity of styling with already established designers curating and at the same time learning the ropes to begin his brand “Orange Culture”, which he started in 2011. Coming into the industry really strong, he flexed his muscles by using fabrics like organza for his first collection, which was strictly male at the time. This level of difference struck a chord with the public, causing reactions but not all were precisely positive. Not many people were open to the idea of androgynous fashion, so he was accused of trying to put feminine clothes on men. “We started a lot of conversations around masculinity and gender, vulnerability in men and a lot of conversations that people did not want to have around who the man is or is not supposed to be. So, it became a movement against stereotypical roles and the dam-

Sunday, October 9, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 10013

age toxic masculinity plays in today’s relationships and emotionality of the man.” You would think that such reception would slow Adebayo down, but instead, that happened to be his driving force.” Heavily encouraged by the responses of those who understood his vision of a more expressive approach to designing, he then spent an entire decade building a movement around his eclectic style, using art as an instrument for empowerment. Today the Orange Culture brand is known for exploring and experimenting with colours, fabrics and styles that cut across both genders, making it a poster brand for genderless fashion. As a designer, Bayo was also one of the first to dabble in collaborations. “I think it’s important to collaborate across borders and exist in the minds of consumers from various spaces. “ In 2014, he was shortlisted among 29 of the most popular emerging designers worldwide for the LVMH Prize. Also, he was recently selected by BOF (Business of fashion) as one of the 500 most influential people in shaping the global fashion industry. ‘’When I saw my name on the BOF LIST I was honestly so speechless - I’m

It’s also a constant reminder that what I do from my little space in Lagos is valid and important in the global scheme of things and a reminder to dream and dream big always

just fashioning my own journey and learning everyday - running a business isn’t easy and so being honored for the thing that I’ve joyfully and painfully sacrificed over a decade of my life for was honestly so emotional. I also had flashbacks of the first time I released a collection and looked back at over 20+ collections and it just made me smile I’m thankful for the opportunity to exist and do what I love and have a team of beautiful Nigerians who work with me to bring this to fruition . It’s also a constant reminder that what I do from my little space in Lagos is valid and important in the global scheme of things and a reminder to dream and dream big always.’’ he says of his achievements . ‘’My prayer is this opens doors always for more designers globally to hold spaces, create tables of importance and also exist at al-

ready made tables of importance.’’ These days, Bayo is giving back via the Orange Culture’s corporate social responsibility, The Orange Mentorship. Launching just before the pandemic broke out, the Orange Mentorshipwas launched to provide aspiring fashion entrepreneurs with the information and access to expertise from industry practitioners and role models. “I’m very passionate about fixing the lack of proper knowledge transfer and fashion education, so I decided to play my own part, especially during the pandemic when so many aspiring designers felt so lost and confused.” This is just the beginning for Adebayo Oke Lawal, as his antecedents clearly state that he’s set for global dominance. ‘’We have a lot planned in terms of expanding in manufacturing, education, and so much more.’’

SHIRO