In a remarkable demonstration of Nigerian creativity and resilience, celebrated fashion entrepreneur Benedicta Ejor, founder of Ebi-Bella’s Fashion Place, is marking 17 years of transforming lives through fashion and enterprise in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
What began in 2008 as a modest venture making hats and beads has grown into a thriving fashion brand and skills development hub. Ejor’s journey reflects the rising tide of local entrepreneurs turning talent into thriving businesses that uplift communities.
“I started by learning to make hats and beads while in school,” Ejor said. “That passion naturally evolved into clothing, and from there, it became a full career in fashion.”
A native of Edo State, Ejor has built a brand that not only promotes creativity but also serves as a platform for training and mentoring. Over the years, she has equipped numerous young Nigerians—especially women—with skills in garment making, fashion design, and accessories production.
As economic pressures and foreign exchange challenges mounted in recent years, Ejor responded by setting up a local garment production line to reduce dependence on imports. Today, Ebi-Bella produces T-shirts, uniforms, and fashion pieces locally, proving that quality manufacturing can thrive in Nigeria.
“When importation became too expensive, we began producing locally,” she explained. “It was a bold move, but we’ve shown it’s possible to succeed without going overseas.”
While celebrating success, Ejor acknowledges the road has not been without hurdles. She cites erratic electricity supply and high operational costs as major setbacks. Yet, her resolve remains firm.
“Electricity has been one of our biggest challenges,” she admitted. “Sometimes we had to divert funds just to run generators, but giving up was never an option.”
Now in her mid-40s, Ejor is shifting focus toward impact and legacy. Through the Ebi-Bella Fashion School Scholarship Scheme, she offers free training to aspiring designers from underserved communities—an initiative that is already transforming lives.
Beneficiary Confidence Atasie expressed her gratitude: “I’ve always had a passion for fashion, but I never had the means to pursue it. Thanks to this scholarship, I believe in my future now.”
Another participant, Mrs. Imoyani Jane Odoyi, a widow and civil servant from Mahoda East Local Government Area, shared her experience: “A friend invited me to one of Ebi-Bella’s events. That day changed my life. I didn’t plan for it, but it gave me a second chance at fulfilling my dream.”
Benedicta Ejor’s story aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, promoting home-grown innovation, inclusive empowerment, and the rebranding of Nigeria’s global image through grassroots development. Her journey is not only one of business success but of nation-building through fashion, empowerment, and vision.
