Boss Of The Week

Olugbenga Shoyele: Erudite Justice Committed to Openness, Transparency, Accountability

Published

3 years ago

June 17, 2023

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

With the exploits of the Nigerian-born Kaycee Madu, who is the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General of Alberta, Canada, the Nigerian community has toed the line, and continues to dish out one exploit after another. The latest in the growing list of Nigerians making waves in Canada is Barrister Olugbenga Shoyele, who was appointed a new judge to head the Provincial Court of Alberta. The position was a privilege opened to lawyers with at least 10 years of experience at the bar, alongside several others who met the criteria, and Shoyele beat the benchmark to merit the exalted position after being thoroughly examined and interviewed. The feat speaks volume about his personality, background and impeccable career profile. Madu described Shoyele and the others as representing the “diversity present in Alberta and will help increase access to justice for Albertans”.

Nigerian-born Olugbenga obtained his Bachelor of Law and Masters in Law from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1980 and 1984 respectively. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy of Law also in 1995 in Nigeria. In 2003, he obtained another Masters of Law from the University of Alberta. Though he worked as a Law Professor in Nigeria, he is on an appointment to Edmonton Criminal Division where he currently practices as a major counsel for the Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench.

ROAD TO APPOINTMENT AS PROVINCIAL JUSTICE

Sequel to his applications, Shoyele was first considered by the Judicial Council, which recommends applicants to the Provincial Court Nominating Committee. He was selected by the committee, which proceeded to interview him, and made recommendations to the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General.

After seating over the round table, Sholeye’s focus, intelligence and go-getting abilities were recognised, and he was shortlisted among those recommended for appointment. Olugbenga’s appointment took effect from July 12, 2021.

However, during the week, Shoyele was officially sworn in, and a get-together was held in his honour to mark the gigantic achievement, where he went down memory lane to tell the story of his sojourn in the citadel of law and justice systems. The story is contained in his well worded speech, punctuated with gracious appreciations as represented below:

SHOYELE’S APPRECIATIVE SPEECH

I start with an acknowledgement that the land on which we gather today for this ceremony is Treaty 6 territory and a traditional meeting ground and home for many Indigenous Peoples, including Cree, Saulteaux Niisitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, and Nakota Sioux; and I do this in recognition of their presence both in the past and the present.

I personally recognize that it is a great honour to be appointed to the “People’s Court” in Alberta joining a team of erudite, respectable, and accomplished honourable Justices of the Alberta Court of Justice, who interface directly with a significant majority of the community members across our Province.

I am very grateful to God — using human democratic institutions — for providing me with the privilege and opportunity to serve the public in the Province of Alberta on this platform. I believe that the Latin phrase: “vox populi, vox dei” – meaning the voice of the people is the voice of God – essentially underpins the legitimacy of judicial appointments in democratic societies like Canada.

I am absolutely humbled by (and very thankful to every single person in this courtroom for) your presence here today because I have no doubts that you have all made some sacrifices in diverse ways to come and spend your precious time with me during this momentous and by some description – historic – swearing-in ceremony.

A number of my friends have asked whether this is a swearing-in of my appointment that happened about two years ago. The simple answer that I responded with was: Yes! I clarified that I’ve had the official or formal one that substantively conferred the authority to act judicially done with my Assistant Chief Justice; and that the ceremonial one happening today is the one where, universally, each new justice being sworn in has the unique opportunity to present the different paths that they have traveled to get to this particular point in their careers as well as appreciate all those who have participated in that journey and/or contributed to the achievement.

This swearing in ceremony, coming after a host of others that I have had the opportunity to observe and participate in — either unobtrusively as part of the procession or actively as a representative of the APJA — has a ton of benefits coming with it. First, its intentional timing is apparently pressure abating. Secondly, the timing also provided me space to explore having my international-based relatives and friends be present at the event. Their presence, as you can all see, is manifested by the colourful, sartorial elegance on display today. Finally, and more interestingly, the June timing comes with the typically abbreviated tropical, summer weather in Edmonton, Alberta. Accordingly, I humbly submit to this honourable court (and audience) that my timing of this ceremony is obviously the bargain to beat. I will concede that the strength of that proposition has been mildly impacted by the air quality index level announced by Environment and Climate Change Canada for today.

Rather than postulating the philosophy and principles of law, which I believe a majority of this audience is familiar with either profoundly or broadly, my speech today is more of a personal story laden with (immense) gratitude.

The significance of my appointment to the Bench in Alberta — and conceivably in Canada — remains, frankly speaking, inescapable in its symbolism as well as effect. It is a positive reflection of the welcoming environment in this beautiful province for people from various continental, national and ethnic origins or backgrounds. It encouragingly demonstrates, with sparkle, the ongoing promotion and actualization of diversity, inclusivity and multiculturalism. It acknowledges possibilities and emphasizes hope for a better future for all in the community that I conspicuously and indisputably belong. The broad reference to “community” is intentional, as I want everyone who sees themselves in me — that is, physically and experientially — to individually draw that conclusion and extract inspiration from this occasion. For increased specificity, that community I have referenced includes the BIPOC demographic (a recently evolved acronym for: Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour); it also encompasses internationally trained lawyers in our Province and across Canada — a country widely perceived as the land of dreams, possibilities, and their realizations.

At the expense of reiteration, I was born in Nigeria, obtained my first set of law degrees – i.e undergraduate and postgraduate degrees – in the same country. Subsequently, I embarked on the professional and academic challenges of re-qualifying in Canada as an internationally trained lawyer; as well as obtaining additional postgraduate degree in law. That re-qualification process was remarkably humbling for me as the table turned for the erstwhile professor of law who suddenly became a student of law all over again. In this regard, I must acknowledge the critical contribution of Professor Lewis Klar, who — during his tenure as the Faculty Dean — materially sparked my interest in coming to Alberta by offering me a visiting opportunity as a sabbatical scholar at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Law, while I was a law professor in Nigeria. Thank you, Professor Klar in absentia.

On my arrival in Edmonton, when I started contemplating my future in Canada, it rapidly became clear to me that I had no discernible roadmap on how to integrate into the legal community in Canada, and more specifically in the province of Alberta, as the National Mobility Agreement which enables lawyers to transfer easily between common law provinces in Canada was not in existence when I was undergoing that process. I had no precedent to follow. The situation was daunting. I had no mentor with my similar experience to consult. It was my fortuitous contact with Justice June Ross that illuminated my path to becoming a member of the legal profession in this province and essentially in the country. She was then the Associate Dean of Law (Academic) at the University of Alberta. She patiently counselled me on the process and imbued me with the required courage to braze the challenges around re-qualifying as a legal practitioner in Canada and as a member of the Law Society of Alberta. That narrative briefly captures the origin of my interest in, love of and commitment to this great Province. Thank you, Justice Ross.

This personal story — which has its genesis on the African continent — includes my nuclear family’s exodus to Canada. The story is the quintessential crystallization of the often repeated axiom that says: “It takes a village to raise a child.” That aphorism itself strikes a particularly resounding chord in my case — given its ostensible African provenance —when I consider the numerous individuals who have been part of my journey and contributed in no small measures to my personal and professional evolution since I arrived at the shores of this country up to the announcement of my appointment as a Justice of the Alberta Court of Justice.

From the professional angle – I acknowledge the following law firms, their principals, partners and associates: James H Brown and Associates – especially Jim Brown, the founding Principal – as well as Snyder and Associates LLP (being law firms that combinedly provided me with an enriched articling opportunity and experience in those early times when clerkship opportunity for internationally trained lawyers was rarer than gemstones); Sharek Logan van Leenen LLP (particularly Justice Gord Sharek and David van Leenen — who offered me the opportunity to start practice in Administrative Law as a specialized area of law that is of paramount interest for me); and Brownlee LLP (where my practice interest in administrative law as Research Lawyer fully blossomed.

I move on to salute Justice Steve Hillier of the Alberta Court of King’s Bench, Justices Sheila Greckol and Jane Fagnan of the Alberta Court of Appeal, who were the “door-opening” interviewers that were directly responsible for my recruitment as Legal Counsel at Alberta Court of King’s Bench [ABKB].

In my role as a former KB Legal Counsel, I have worked with and for a considerable number of those sitting on the dais for the ceremony today. And I can confidently assert without fear of contradiction, that they embody, as Alberta’s judiciary, the top-notch brains drawn from the brilliant legal community of our province. I am indeed extremely grateful for your attendance at the ceremony today.

The ABKB operates in a highly collegial environment. And I thoroughly enjoyed working there with its outstanding judicial complement, stellar Legal Counsel Team, energetic judicial assistants and brilliant judicial clerks. The KB Justices and LCs provided a conducive, non-toxic, and accepting atmosphere that made me look forward everyday – and with unbridled enthusiasm – to showing up for another productive workday “in-person” (pre-pandemic).

While it is simply impractical for me to exhaustively mention the names of all justices, judicial officers and staff, who I have worked with for the duration of my career as Legal Counsel at the Alberta Court of King’s Bench and briefly at the Alberta Court of Appeal, I am compelled to comment that the Edmonton KB Legal Counsel “dream team” consisted of brilliant legal minds. I have had the good fortune of working with exceptionally gifted members of the group such as: Shelagh Lobay (now retired), Peggy Kobly KC, Donald Netolitzky KC, Stella Varvis and Jennifer Taylor (alongside our Resolution Counsel – Brenda Kaminski, KC and Michelle Pidhirney, KC) and in later years Thomas Druyan, Robyn Mitchell and Michelle Roy. The affable working environment in Edmonton was harmoniously coordinated by Diana Lowe KC (now retired former Exec LC), and currently Heather Manweiller).

They have all helped in sharpening my understanding of the law through the regular biweekly and monthly meetings we held as court lawyers, interacting with our highly intelligent articling clerks recruited annually.

As can be gleaned from my previous comments, I also had a transforming stint and experience as Legal Counsel at the Alberta Court of Appeal where I worked directly with Justice Costigan and our other highly respected appeal justices. A typical day as Legal Counsel to Justice Costigan commenced early with penetrating brainstorming on core legal issues. During that time, I was — of course — also privileged to know and work closely with the ABCA Legal Counsel Team in Edmonton, being my base location. These Legal Counsel Team members, both individually and corporately, have never ceased to amaze me with their legendary intellectual brilliance and attention to granular details that are constantly engaged in the appeal matters they regularly deal with. Your sterling contributions to the administration of justice in our Province is highly commendable.

It is trite knowledge that the University of Alberta, over the years, has contributed immeasurably to the legal community in Canada at the local, provincial and national levels. I am indisputably one of the beneficiaries of that great institution’s countless contributions to the society. In that vein, I am particularly obliged to the entire team of tenured professors, adjunct professors, sessional instructors and staff — past and present — in the Faculty of Law at the University of Alberta, who have directly and indirectly contributed to making this day possible. I would like to acknowledge Professor David Percy, Professor Phil Bryden, Professor Linda Reif, Dean Barbara Billingsley, Justice Tami Friesen, and Maureen Maguire, KC, to mention a few. Again, if I have not included your name in this short list, I passionately plead for your understanding as the constraints of time wouldn’t permit me to reel out all deserving names individually. I wish to reiterate, nevertheless, that my inability to mention you specifically by name today does not in any way diminish your immense contributions to my story.

To my nuclear family members, I acknowledge and hail your courage in sacrificially rallying around the dream of leaving the relative comfort we had enjoyed at the University community in Jos, Nigeria to explore the then adventurous, unknown and uncertain future in Canada. That departure had an element of oxymoron to it. We were excited at the sweet, delightful opportunity to come to Canada while feeling slightly bitter and scared that we were leaving the familiar — our daily routine, as well as our family and friends. I would like to believe that we have made a modest success of the move we staged back then. Remarkably and sadly, though, what I have just referenced as “relative comfort” in the City of Jos subsequently degenerated after our departure from that community in Nigeria into chaos and insecurity. A more relatively recent update, however, confirms that the government in the country is now striving arduously to restore the peace and serenity for which that university community was renowned. I continue to pray and hope for the realization of that goal. The entire nation of Nigeria deserves it as a member of the global community.

I’m beholden to Mary, my beautiful, lovely and loving spouse, who has been absolutely supportive of me at every step of the journey in this beautiful country and province. I would be remiss not to acknowledge in unequivocal terms that you have always taken wonderful care of us as a family. Mary believes so much in my ability to achieve set goals. She has always been, in a concrete and unmistakable way, a motivator as well as a constant driving force who consistently propels me to higher heights. Obulu!!

My lovely children deserve a prodigious accolade as well — my daughter Grace (and her husband, Jason); my son Ade (and his girlfriend, Georgina), as well as my youngest daughter “the Princess” Yemi (who I fondly call ‘the Math Wizard’ in acknowledgment of her love and passion for all things mathematical). I say “Gracias” to you all for accommodating my sporadic aloofness when duty-calls interface with domestic matters at the home front. I also love to think that we have succeeded in mapping out the strategy to deal with that now in a commonly satisfactory manner.

To my siblings in England and Nigeria, thanks for being there always in providing emotional and filial support since the loss of our mother, a brother and a sister. How lovely it would have been to have you all here in-person to celebrate this occasion with me. Nonetheless, I’m appreciatively content with your virtual and spiritual presence necessitated by inevitable practical limitations.

My father, a centenarian – who turned 100 years in January 2023 – was more than thrilled at the announcement of my appointment being celebrated today. I had the opportunity to visit him in Nigeria recently — in 2021, immediately after COVID-19 restrictions were partially lifted and it was safe to make international travels. He reminded me of the role I played in a drama commemorating my set’s graduation at the local elementary school, where a story book titled, The Incorruptible Judge was adapted for the stage. From that reminiscence, it’s clear to me now, more than ever, that my love and passion for the law dated back to my childhood days.

To our extended family members — nieces, nephews, cousins — and family friends from across Canada and overseas, I appreciate your presence — both virtually by WebEx and in person — on this occasion.

My immense gratitude to Arlene, John, Cynthia, Terry, and Amy Stiksma (our in-laws). Mary and I are most obliged for all your kindness and support as our new family members.

I thank my church family at Strathcona Baptist Church, Edmonton for the spiritual support you have unfailingly and continually provided to me and my family dating back to Year 2000, when my nuclear family members and I stepped into the hallowed hall of the sanctuary at 83rd Avenue, Edmonton. I deeply appreciate you all for coming to celebrate this day with me.

To all our family friends in Edmonton, Calgary, Fort McMurray, Grand Prairie (and other parts of our lovely province of Alberta), a big thank you for your friendship and presence here today. I got a huge surprise few weeks ago from some of my friends, based abroad – in Nigeria, the United States and the United Kingdom – informing me of their intentions to, in their words, “storm” this event. Not in the nature of a war strategy, but in a friendly celebration of this historic moment. I sincerely appreciate the pleasant surprise, Wole, Damola, Dele and Dejo! And many, many thanks for showing up and taking the long trips when it mattered.

The Brownlee’s Toastmasters Club had been an integral part of my journey since Justice Jane Fagnan introduced me to the organization. To all my friends at BBTM (that being the acronym we use for the club), who are present here today, I say thank you for gracing this significant ceremony.

Since my appointment as a Justice of the Alberta Court of Justice, I have been very fortunate to enjoy the benefit of an exceedingly supportive culture existing in all Divisions of the Court.

I am especially indebted to all my colleagues at the Edmonton Criminal Division — particularly ACJ Ray Bodnarek. I won’t dare inadvertently step on toes by going further to start mentioning individual names here because you have all been so wonderfully generous to me with your time, knowledge and experience – and I really, really mean that. That is unsurprising to me, though, because by every standard you are all achievers who have nothing to lose at the pinnacle– as it were – of your legal careers.

That said, I believe I’m on safe terrain in acknowledging the special roles played by Justice Randy Brandt, Justice Joyce Lester (my assigned mentors), and Justice Francine Roy, who incidentally were my immediate neighbours when I initially arrived at the East side on the 5th Floor. Justices Jim Wheatley, Larry Anderson, Janet Dixon, and Carole Godfrey must not be left out of that list of “incipient stage” visitors. They all came to check on me virtually every day — during my first few weeks and months — to ensure I was comfortable. Justice Danny Zalmanowitz of Edmonton Family and Youth Division also noticeably made efforts to come in regularly from the 6th Floor and reassure me that things would fall in place — professionally — sooner that I thought. That network has since (of course) ballooned as I approach my second year on the 5th Floor and now operating from the west side. I cherish you all!

I have also received assistance from all the wonderful staff at the Alberta Court of Justice — the judicial assistants, the judicial clerks, Executive Legal Counsel, LCs, Librarians, Court of Justice [COJ] staff members and clerkship or articling students. They have all helped to transition me to this new career and role — right from the time I stepped onto the 5th Floor back in July 2021 — doing seemingly banal things like showing me my office/chambers, the lunchroom, the library and resources available to me, designing my judicial education plan, etc. Sincere gratitude “Team COJ”!

As we all march into the future, I am optimistic that the challenges ahead call for the ability to deploy a sense of calm and grace under pressure.

The judiciary remains always at the confluence of our past, present and future. Take a glance around this grand courtroom, and you will quickly realize that it is populated, in the main, by erudite jurists who have demonstrated incredible leadership in the legal community we have all come to know over several years. They have all contributed in an inestimable manner to the development of jurisprudence across our nation and the international common law regime.

These members of the judiciary have all, without fear or favour, upheld and continue to uphold timeless principles that span, among others — Constitutionalism. Rule of Law. Due process. Natural Justice. Fair trial. Privacy and Open Courts.

In so doing, they have worked tirelessly and ethically with the vibrant members of the bar in our beautiful province to protect the democratic values we cherish in the Canadian society. I pay homage to your diligence and dedication.

Albert Schweitzer — a renowned polymath and Nobel Peace prize winner — once said: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” I love the legal profession, love legal research and writing, and love to resolve legal problems. I believe these things that make me happy would help me make a success of my judicial career.

It is my goal to remain committed to the time-honoured principles of openness, transparency and accountability. In the same context, I will strive to observe and uphold the virtues of courtesy, respect, fairness and simplicity.

Acutely aware of the core principle of judicial independence while serving Albertans in the fair, administration of justice, I intend – and have planned – to work hard to justify the trust reposed in me by virtue of this appointment. I will diligently discharge my judicial duties to the best of my ability.

Many thanks to you all for coming to share this joyous moment with me!

Boss Of The Week

Meet Gen Chinedu Nnebeife, the Brain Behind OyoRescue

Published

1 week ago

July 12, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

One man has remained at the centre of attraction as the intelligence-based rescue of the Oyo students and teachers continue to trend. He is Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan; one of the major strategic military formations in the country.

The efforts of General Nnebeife and his team did not only heighten their personality as individuals, but further buttresses the Military’s role in tackling the menace of insecurity across the country.

The rescue operation, which culminated in the safe return of 44 schoolchildren and teachers, has been widely celebrated by Nigerians and has further cemented the reputation of the senior military officer as an accomplished and result-oriented commander, a writer Ken Chukwudi Raph wrote.

A Proud Son of Anambra

Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife hails from Umuogbu village in Awka, the capital of Anambra state.

For many indigenes of the state, the latest successful operation coordinated by the General has become another source of pride, as one of their own continues to distinguish himself in the service of the nation.

Over the years, Anambra state has produced many distinguished military officers, public servants and professionals who have contributed immensely to national development, and Major General Nnebeife’s accomplishments have added another illustrious chapter to that rich history.

Those who know him describe him as a calm, disciplined and thoroughbred officer whose leadership style is defined by professionalism, courage and dedication to duty.

Distinguished Military Career

The journey to becoming a two-star General in the Nigerian Army is never an easy one.

It is a path that requires years of hard work, discipline, sacrifice and exemplary service.

Major General Nnebeife’s rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Army reflects his commitment to excellence and his ability to deliver results in every assignment entrusted to him.

Throughout his military career, he has served in various operational and command positions, earning the respect of both his superiors and subordinates.

His appointments over the years have exposed him to different security challenges across the country, equipping him with the experience and expertise needed to handle complex military operations.

It is this wealth of experience that many observers believe played a key role in the successful rescue of the Oyo pupils and their teachers.

Coordinating a Complex Rescue Mission

Kidnapping has become one of the major security challenges confronting many parts of Nigeria.

The abduction of schoolchildren, in particular, often creates fear and anxiety among parents and communities.

Therefore, the successful rescue of the Oyo schoolchildren and their teachers without loss of lives represents a significant achievement.

Military sources said the operation involved extensive intelligence gathering, strategic planning and coordination among various security agencies.

As the General Officer Commanding the 2 Division, Major General Nnebeife was at the centre of the operation, coordinating efforts that eventually led to the safe rescue of the victims.

The feat has attracted commendation from various quarters, with many Nigerians praising the professionalism displayed by the military personnel involved in the operation.

Previous Rescue Operations

The latest rescue mission is not the first time Major General Nnebeife has been associated with successful operations against criminal elements.

During one of his previous assignments in Kwara State, he reportedly led an operation that resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped victims.

The operation further strengthened his reputation as an officer capable of handling difficult assignments and producing positive outcomes.

Security experts have often noted that effective military leadership is crucial in addressing the country’s security challenges, and officers such as Major General Nnebeife continue to demonstrate the importance of experience, intelligence and strategic planning in combating criminality.

Commitment to National Service

Beyond the commendations and accolades, Major General Nnebeife’s achievements underscore the sacrifices made daily by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in protecting the country’s territorial integrity and safeguarding lives and property.

Military personnel often operate under difficult and dangerous conditions, sometimes risking their own lives to ensure the safety of ordinary citizens.

The successful rescue of the Oyo pupils and teachers serves as another reminder of the commitment and dedication of Nigeria’s security forces.

For the Anambra-born General, the latest achievement is another milestone in a distinguished career devoted to national service and the pursuit of peace and security.

A source of inspiration

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from different parts of the country, many have offered prayers for God’s continued guidance, protection and wisdom for the senior military officer.

They have also expressed hope that he will continue to excel in his responsibilities and attain even greater heights in his military career.

For many young Nigerians, especially those from Anambra State, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife’s story serves as an inspiration and a testament to the rewards of discipline, hard work and dedicated service to the nation.

His role in coordinating the rescue of the Oyo school pupils and teachers has not only brought relief to the affected families but has also further enhanced his reputation as one of the Nigerian Army’s finest officers and a worthy ambassador of Anambra State and Nigeria at large.

The entire nation stands in obeisance of the seasoned military officer, and wish the military continous success in its onslaught against terrorism, banditry as well as internal and external insurrection.

Congratulations General Nnebeife!!!

Additional information: Blueprint

Boss Of The Week

Fashion Icon, Eniafe Momodu, Joins Berlin Contemporary Jury

Published

2 weeks ago

July 6, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The appointment of fast rising world’s fashion influencer, Eniafe Momodu, into the Berlin Contemporary Jury, did not come as a surprise to as many that know the charisma and talent the young fashion enthusiast is endowed it. This is coupled with the landmark achievements that have trailed him in the pursuit of his chosen profession.

Eniafe is widely regarded as one of the most respected young figures in African fashion, whose work spans creative direction, image making, editorial development, cultural research, and brand strategy.

Sired by one of world’s leading journalists, Aare Dele Momodu, arguably the most influential and famous DELE in Africa, Eniafe has completely carved a strong niche for himself, taking a deep dive into the world of self awareness.

From a very young age, Eniafe had exuded style, composure, elegance and the flair to ‘look good’ at all times. His signature large bourbon attires, that was privately original, created distinct visibility for the young man, who continually has success as his motivating slogan. And success he has achieved in such a brief 28 years period.

Fondly referred to as ‘My Twin’ by his dotting father, Eniafe has continued to not only uplift the Momodu brand, but continually project the image of Nigeria and Africa in the brightest of colours.

Eniafe’s appointment reflects his growing influence as a creative strategist, producer, photographer, writer, and cultural commentator whose work has helped shape contemporary conversations around African fashion and its global impact. Recognised by platforms like Vogue Magazine and ESSENCE as a leading voice in the industry, he has built a reputation for bridging fashion, culture, research, and storytelling across international markets.

“It’s been an incredible process serving on the jury,” said Momodu. “The jury selection this season includes designers from Asia, Europe, Africa and America. I think this really underscores the German Fashion Council’s commitment to celebrating design talents from all over the world.”

More so, his appointment places the Nigerian creative among the industry leaders responsible for selecting and supporting emerging fashion talent.

The programme, one of Europe’s leading fashion development initiatives, awarded €25,000 grants to 19 winning concepts this season. Among the selected designers were Nigerian brands Orange Culture and Fruché, alongside talents from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Momodu described the selection as a reflection of the German Fashion Council’s commitment to celebrating design talent from around the world, further highlighting the growing presence of African voices in global fashion decision-making.

A PEEP INTO DESCRIPTIONS OF ENIAFE MOMODU BY FASUION MEDIA

In January 2022, Vogue captured the growing influence of Eniafe Momodu, through its reporter, Vincent Desmond, in story titled: Eniafe Momodu’s Style Shows the Extravagance of Men’s Fashion in Nigeria, as follows:

There’s a changing of the guard in fashion and culture. Gen-Z creators are pushing the conversation forward in ways both awe-inspiring and audacious. Our latest project, Youthquake, invites you to discover how these artists, musicians, actors, designers, and models are radically reimagining the future.

Where elsewhere men may shy from colorful fabrics and oversized dramatic silhouettes, in Lagos, Nigeria, they wear them as a symbol of wealth and great personal style. Each fashion week, you’ll see these men dressed in their best eye-catching prints, dramatic arm details, and flowing bodices, determined to outshine everyone else on the street style scene. Among this group is Eniafe Momodu, standing out and dominating over the rest not just in height—he stands at a towering 6’6’’—but also with one of the best looks.

Within the last two years, Momodu, a graduate of the University of Leeds who currently works as a photographer, producer, and writer, has become one of Lagos’s most recognizable Gen-Z style icons with over 24,000 Instagram followers. Momodu has brought to life campaigns and productions for companies like Arise Fashion Week, Alara, and Ebony Life, and has also been a host for his own projects, like New World Brunch. His custom green aso-oke and gazar silk agbada from Fruche, which he wore to the last Lagos Fashion Week in November, was lauded by many publications, including Vogue, as one of the best looks from the event. To attend Lagos Is Burning, a ballroom-inspired party, he wore custom-made all-black robes, which, in his words, channeled “Andre Leon Talley, Billy Porter, and Dominique Jackson.”

“My style is often described as grand, larger-than-life, and reminiscent of André Leon Talley.” Eniafe Momodu says from Dubai. But that extravagance belies his core fashion philosophy. “My typical silhouette involves something long and free-flowing,” he says. “There’s a certain ease of movement that I try to convey through my style, which also speaks to my personality. I don’t subscribe to the belief that fashion is pain. Comfort can be very stylish. For me, what I wear isn’t really about how I look. I’m far more concerned with the message behind what I’m wearing. I always think deeply about what a garment says about me, but also what it says about culture, gender, sustainability, and other facets of our society.”

Despite being a fashion capital, Lagos stores offer limited options for plus-size customers, particularly from the ready-to-wear brands. Plus-size outfits are often double or triple the price for the same outfit in a smaller size. Momodu has often faced this struggle and instead relies on easily accessible tailors in Nigeria to create his custom wardrobe. It’s a process with less hassle, but still not ideal.

“I would not describe fashion in Lagos as particularly size inclusive,” Momodu says. “However, thanks to the prominent bespoke culture in Lagos, the ready-to-wear industry and its shortcomings do not have as totalitarian an influence on our clothing as they do in other parts of the world. People here regularly turn to the made-to-measure industry and employ local tailors to create clothing for special occasions like weddings, funerals, and birthdays, as well as for their day-to-day traditional attire.” The caftans that Momodu has become known for are mostly made-to-measure by his favorite tailor (the two have a collaborative relationship and Momodu will send fabrics to him). He describes the process as many Nigerians would: Tailors rarely stick to deadlines, but they always get the job done well.

The easy access to tailors and bespoke fashion isn’t the only thing Momodu is grateful for as a stylish man living in Lagos. He considers himself lucky to have access to the culture and history that surround him in Lagos. The creative scene and the never-ending supply of fashion inspiration fuel his storytelling as a creator.

“In Lagos, we are privileged to have access to such a rich and vibrant cultural history. As a creative, you can find inspiration everywhere you look,” Momodu says. “When it comes to prints, patterns, textiles, and color combinations, we have centuries worth of references to choose from. At its core, Nigeria is a melting pot of different cultures and influences, so local designers and artisans can draw from aspects of Nigerian culture without becoming homogenous.”

In August 2025, prestigious lifestyle and fashion magazine, ESSENCE, through Ugonnaora Owoh, wrote the following on an encounter with Eniafe Momodu with the topic, How One Of Nigeria’s Most Influential Style Icons Eniafe Momodu Is Crafting His Own Style Legacy

When I finally catch up with Eniafe Momodu, it’s in person at the Nordic Hotel in the middle of Lagos’ bustling suburbs, which Momodu has been calling home for the past week while working on some projects. Our conversation commences as we share thoughts on the recent Met Gala. He lights up as we unpack and undress this year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” It’s a lighthearted conversation, but he speaks with the clarity and authority that you would expect from Nigeria’s most prolific cultural dandy.

Momodu, a producer, photographer, writer, and entrepreneur is one of the most notable, young forces in African fashion. At just 27 years old, his creative repertoire is impressive. Born in London to a journalist father and an accountant mother, he describes his childhood as ridden with the characteristics of a multi-hyphenate. He was a precocious child whose earliest memories were shaped by his love of music and literature.

Momodu’s eccentric style has propelled his status as one of Lagos’ highly stylish individuals. Characterized by colorful garments and long-flowing silhouettes, his signature style has been replicated by many. Growing up tall and large, fashion to him was originally about concealment. His mother would dress him in clothes aimed at making him blend in and stand out as little as possible. The global pandemic and subsequent #EndSARS protests spurred his return to Lagos (having left at 16 to complete his studies in the UK), which led him to craft a new style identity.

At 11, he tells me he stumbled across an old digital camera, which instantly sparked a long-term relationship with photography and filmmaking. Throughout his early teens, he would capture candid moments of his family and friends at school. At 14, advised by a cousin to pursue photography more seriously, Eniafe approached his dad asking if he could buy him a professional camera. “I was lucky to be a second-generation creative,” he says. “My dad always encouraged my creative interests, but he was also a stubborn believer in academia.” Momudu explains that when he asked his father if he could buy a professional camera he declared he would if he received all A’s on his next report card. He notes that he doesn’t recall ever studying harder–however, he ended up receiving all A’s–and his camera was gifted by his father several weeks later.

That Nikon DSLR camera ushered in a new era for a young Eniafe, who quickly adopted photo-sharing apps like Instagram and Tumblr, becoming his secondary school’s de facto student photographer and yearbook editor shortly after. When Venus and Serena Williams visited Lagos in 2012 and hosted an inter-school tennis tournament, he was the youngest photographer granted access to document the showdown.

“I was able to see that there was a real power in photography. Being able to document specific moments, whether they were intimate or big, and seeing the joy in people’s faces as they relive moments you’ve captured. Not to mention the access it gives you. This was before everyone was a photographer and could take high-quality pictures from their phones. It was a superpower back then,” he tells ESSENCE.

Eniafe’s image continues to loom large, and it can be imagined how much more of a great achievement he is poised to bring to the table in the coming years.

A hearty congratulations to the fashion icon!

Boss Of The Week

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi: An Epitome of Leadership, Scholarship and Media Entrepreneurship

Published

3 weeks ago

June 29, 2026

Eric

By Adeoye Inioluwa

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi is a distinguished Nigerian media scholar, journalist, and academic leader whose career reflects a rare blend of professional journalism, rigorous scholarship, and institutional administration.

He currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of Baze University, Abuja, where he provides strategic academic leadership focused on innovation, excellence, and the advancement of higher education.

His academic foundation was laid at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He furthered his professional training in journalism at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja, before proceeding on the prestigious Chevening Scholarship to the University of Leeds, United Kingdom. There, he obtained a Master’s degree in International Communications and later completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication Studies, with research that explored internet-mediated communication among Nigerians in the diaspora.

Before transitioning fully into academia, Professor Adeniyi built a solid career in journalism. He worked with Today Newspapers and later spent over a decade at The Guardian, where he distinguished himself as a reporter and editor covering politics, governance, and national affairs.

His years in the newsroom not only shaped his understanding of media practice but also grounded his later academic work in real-world experience.

Following his doctoral studies, he returned to Nigeria and briefly served as a Communications Consultant on the World Bank-supported Economic Reform and Governance Project at the Bureau of Public Procurement.
He later established Witswords Consults Limited, where he offered strategic communication advisory services to public and private sector institutions.

At Baze University, Professor Adeniyi has played a central role in academic development and institutional growth. Over the years, he has served in several capacities, including Head of Department of Mass Communication, Deputy Dean, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, University Orator, Registrar, and ultimately Vice Chancellor.

He is widely recognized as one of the pioneering figures in strengthening postgraduate education and communication studies within the institution.

An accomplished scholar, his research interests span strategic communication, journalism studies, political communication, media and governance, diaspora and migration studies, and digital media. He has authored and co-authored scholarly works published in reputable outlets and has contributed to advancing discourse on media, democracy, identity, and communication in contemporary society.

Beyond academia, Professor Adeniyi has maintained active engagement in public discourse through consulting, research collaborations, and policy-related advisory work. He has worked with international development partners, including organisations such as the World Bank, European Union, USAID, and the International Organization for Migration, among others. His expertise has also been sought in media commentary, public lectures, and intellectual forums across Nigeria and beyond.
Colleagues and observers often describe him as a “public intellectual” whose work bridges the gap between theory and practice.

His contributions reflect a consistent commitment to ethical journalism, critical inquiry, and the role of communication in strengthening democratic governance and civic engagement.

Professor Abiodun Adeniyi stands today as one of Nigeria’s notable academic voices in media and communication studies. He is an intellectual whose career continues to demonstrate the enduring relevance of scholarship in shaping society, policy, and public understanding.