Fashion: Nigeria has all it takes to stand out – Nsikak

Nigerian fashion and beauty pageant promoter, Brendan Nsikak, said that Nigeria has all it takes to stand out in the world of fashion. Nsikak, Chief Executive Officer, Brendance and Crusader Nigeria Ltd., organisers of the first mixed pageant in the country, Mr and Miss Nigeria International, said this in an interview in Lagos.

According to him, Nigeria as Africa’s biggest economy, with one of the most robust pageants and fashion shows on the globe, has the wherewithal to stand out in the fashion world.

“With the likes of Deola Sagoe; Lisa Folawiyo; Duro Olowu; Ohimai Atafo  and many other trailblazers that have paid the price and put the country squarely in the global fashion market, Nigerian fashion industry and its fashion products hold an inestimable place in the hearts of its teeming lovers all across the world.

“There are those who believe that despite the recognition given to the Nigerian industry, pulling its weight, particularly in regards to its potential, still has room to do much better,” he said.

He added that some creative synergy and commitment by all stakeholders should be put on the front burner so that Nigeria’s fashion sector could be the industry leader on the continent.

“My rating came to a climax after my visit to the United States in December 2023 to meet with the movers and shakers of the fashion industry there.

“I met with fashion and pageant stakeholders in America and I really congratulate our country for the standard we have attained as compared to international standards.

“My international interaction has earned me a collaboration with top American media company, FE TV HUB, to produce two televised events later this year titled, Inferno Runway and Fit for a King,” he said.

The fashion enthusiast said that the 12th edition of Miss Nigeria International held in Lagos which was won by Miss Abia State, had an American fashion consultant, Bob Cal, as the prominent guest.

According to news reports, Nsikak, has managed corporate events for 13 years and has appealed to the government to be totally involved by giving out grants to the deserving young Nigerians in the industry.

“I appeal to the government to approve soft loans to fashion enthusiasts that have worked so hard with projects that would put Nigeria in the world map.

“They should also make it a point of duty to look at the fashion groups from the grassroot to the national level, not leaving any level out from the grants to be provided,” he said.

He noted that some of the major challenges was lack of support from corporate bodies and banks despite good proposals provided.

NAN/S.S