Boss Of The Week

Adebanji Akintoye: The Man of Great Vision

Published

5 years ago

April 15, 2021

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

When kings and change makers are born, there are always distinct signs in the horizon that announces them. Theirs is a herald of glory, glamour and achievements with a dint of divine touch to ensure that nothing goes wrong; Stephen Adebanji Akintoye, known simply as Banji Akintoye, is that change maker; a man of great destiny, created to divinely fulfill a purpose. The ebullient octogenarian has not looked back in his quest to put the right foot first in all his undertakings even as he is concluding with the actualisation of a much touted Yoruba nation.

Born on February 18, 1935, Banji Akintoye is a prolific academic, historian and writer, who was privileged to attended the wonderful Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti, between 1951 and 1955, and followed it with a degree in History from the University College (Overseas College of the University of London), Ibadan from 1956 to 1961. He obtained his doctoral honours (PhD) after intensive studies between 1963 and 1966 at the University of Ibadan.

Akintoye kicked off a prolific career with a teaching position at the History Department of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and rose to become a professor and Director of the Institute of African Studies from 1974 to 1977. He has also taught African History in some universities in the United States including the University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Montgomery County Community College, PA, and Eastern University, St. Davids, Pennsylvania. He was practically legendary. He quest into the world of history equipped him with all there is to know about indigenous people, especially his immediate race, Yoruba.

A writer of great repute, Akintoye has four books to his credit as well as different chapters in many joint books, and several articles in scholarly journals.

His journey into the political terrain of Nigeria cannot go unmentioned as he took a leading part for some time in politics and served as a senator for four years (1979–1983) ie during the Second Republic. While in the Upper Chamber, he served in different committees, such as: Foreign Relations, Petroleum & Energy, Internal Affairs. He was also chairman, Senate Delegation to the United Nations Peace-keeping Force in Lebanon, 1981; member, Nigerian National Delegation to the 1981 General Assembly of the United Nations Organization. He was a Nigerian Delegate to World Conference on Actions Against Apartheid, London, 1981 and member, Nigerian Senate Delegation on Fraternal Visit to the Soviet Union, 1982. He also served as the Commissioner for Health, Ondo State, Nigeria, 1983-4.

There is no way the history of Yoruba people is written without Akintoye getting a generous spotlight. He is in fact one of the current leading scholars on the history of the Yoruba people.

According to Wikipedia “His most recent work, A History of the Yoruba People (Amalion, 2010), draws on decades of new findings and thinking on Yoruba studies that challenges some previously dominant notions about the origins of the Yoruba. This work dispels the Middle Eastern and Arabia origins propounded by such scholars as the late Samuel Johnson (1846–1901) and also gave prominence to the works on the Pre-Oduduwa Period by Ulli Beier among others. Akintoye also gave prominence to the role of Ilé-Ifè over that of Oyo. A reviewer, Wale Adebanwi, notes: “…this book directly contests and shifts the focus of Yoruba history away from what many have called the Oyo-centric account of Samuel Johnson… Where Johnson avoids the creation myth that positions Ife as the sacred locus of Oduduwa’s original descent and the orirun (creation-source), Akintoye, justifiably, restores Ile-Ife to its proper place as “ibi ojumo ti mon wa’ye” (where the dawn emerges)”.

He is seen as “a walking encyclopedia of History, a dandy of diction, a well of wisdom, a proboscis of brilliance, a totem of intellect, a tendon of integrity, an exemplar of excellence, an edification of dignity and above all, a PATRIOTIC Yoruba man,” who has resolved not “… cease researching and writing”.

From a deeper insight, and from a prolific insider, Akinloye’s life and times are portrayed in details as follows:

ASIWAJU OF YORUBALAND, ADEBANJI AKINLOYE

“He was born in Ado-Ekiti in the Palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti – on the “right” hand from the palace of Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, and on the “left” hand from the family of the High Chief ‘Osolo’ of Ado-Ekiti. His father was Chief James Akintoye, the Osolo of Ado-Ekiti.

“His grandfather was Faparusi, the Osolo of Ado-Ekiti, one of the great warrior-rulers in Ekiti in the 19th century.
He is, now, 86 years of age. He was educated at the Emmanuel School (Anglican), Ado-Ekiti – where he started in 1942.

“From there he went to Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti – a BIG NAME in secondary school education in the days of yore. Four months after completion of secondary school, he passed the DIFFICULT entrance exam into the prestigious University College, Ibadan (then an affiliate of the University of London). He obtained the B.A. (Honours) degree in History in 1961. His passion was to return to Christ’s School (his Alma Mater) to teach, which he did.

“One afternoon, as he was teaching the Advanced Level students of the school, he heard a great COMMOTION as students ran to where he was teaching, and BANGED on the door! What was happening? he asked. As he went out to see them, they carried him shoulder-high, saying that there had been news from the University of Ibadan that Banji Akintoye had been ADMITTED for POST-GRADUATE studies at the University, whereas he never applied for post-graduate studies! The University had unilaterally admitted him; they had willingly offered him admission even though he did not apply! THEY WANTED HIM! The students of Christ’s School Ado-Ekiti had seen this news in the newspaper, and that was what led to that commotion!

“Thus, Banji Akintoye returned to the University of Ibadan for his Ph.D. His Ph.D program and thesis was on the HISTORY OF THE YORUBAS! – containing the history and wars in Yorubaland in the 19th century. He wrote the leading book of history, the most respected book of HISTORY of the Yorubas of that period, till date! – titled “REVOLUTION AND POWER POLITICS IN YORUBALAND: Ibadan Expansion and the Rise of Ekiti Parapo.” To write that book, he had to learn a bit of the Portuguese language – so as to be able to read and understand certain documents in the archives of the nation of Portugal, documents that had been written earlier concerning the Yorubas by Portuguese expeditions that came to this part of the world long before then. He also had to learn a bit of LATIN language in order to research into documents concerning the Yoruba race, documents that were in Rome, and especially at the archives of the Papacy of the Roman Catholic Church (Vatican). He also had to stay in London for several months, in order to study and research into British archives concerning the things they had written about the YORUBA RACE. But, all of that was not enough. To write that book, he also had to GO ROUND THE ENTIRETY OF YORUBALAND – to research into the HISTORY of the Yorubas. He personally met with a lot of people who had witnessed those wars and were still alive at the time of his research! And he interacted with them and interviewed them. As a demand for and of this research, it is ON RECORD that there is NO CITY, TOWN OR COMMUNITY in the entire Yorubaland that Banji Akintoye has not visited or been to! NONE! He has literally treaded the entire Geographical space of Yorubaland – from Community to Community!

“He did not know that DESTINY was beckoning on him!

“He further, in his research on Yoruba history, went to all Yoruba towns and Communities in what is now Benin Republic, as well as in Togo.

“His professors at the University of Ibadan were extremely pleased with the work he had done on Yoruba history in his Ph.D research and thesis. It was not only a foregone conclusion that he thus obtained his Ph.D, but, also, his professors wanted him to remain in Ibadan at the University as a teaching and research person (University don or lecturer). However, Banji Akintoye had other plans. A new University had just been established by the very vibrant Western Nigeria Government under the leadership of the great Yoruba leader – Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The university was University of Ife (before it was later taken over by force by the military domineering Federal Government and re-named Obafemi Awolowo University). It was a new University that was built to be one of the best in the whole world – it was a “Yoruba” innovation that was to catch the attention of the whole world, and Banji Akintoye wanted to be a part of that “new thing.”

“He did not know that destiny was beckoning on him!

“Meanwhile, he had also been involved in politics, at the international level, even from school in the 1950’s at the University College, Ibadan, where he was involved in the “World Universities Service,” “United Nations Students Association,” “All Nigeria United Nations Students Association” etc. He was President/Chairman in the University.

“In 1959, as he observed the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in his political campaigns, Banji Akintoye saw a “drawing” within himself towards supporting the late sage. He said within himself, “This man deserves the support of someone like me.” By himself, he went to Chief Obafemi Awolowo and said to him “I want to be a member of your Party.”

“DESTINY was beckoning on him!

“Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Political party was known as the “Action Group” (AG). Banji Akintoye worked with about 2 other students to establish the Action Group Students Association at the University College, Ibadan.

“In the brief period that he worked at the Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, before returning to Ibadan for his post-graduate studies, he was instrumental in establishing the Action Group Youth Association.

“While he was still a post-graduate student, he was prevailed upon to be the Vice-President of the Action Group Youth Association, while Chief Ayo Fasanmi was the President.

“As if that was not enough, he was called upon from Ado-Ekiti, while he was still a post-graduate student in 1964, to represent his people in Ekiti at the House of Representatives in Lagos (which was the capital of Nigeria at the time). But that election was rigged to the extent that the President, Nnamdi Azikiwe, refused to announce any winner because the election had been massively rigged in the North; and the West, in alliance with the N.C.N.C party of Azikiwe were asked to boycott the elections.

“Following that was the 1965 elections in the West (for the Western Parliament) which was also massively rigged because the Fulani-Controlled Federal Government of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa had massively pokenosed into the politics of the West – leading to the military take-over in 1966! Banji Akintoye was agitating, alongside others, against the injustice of rigging!

“In 1974, he became a full professor at the University of Ife. He also became the Director of the Institute of African Studies at the University of Ife.

“Destiny was indeed beckoning on him.

“He contracted the services of a renowned European-trained photographer in Nigeria, who produced photographs of the great University of Ife, while Banji Akintoye wrote the narrative of a new book: “Ife University in COLOUR: scenes from Africa’s Most Beautiful Campus.” The University was so impressed that they bought the book off the authors!

“As soon as Chief Obafemi Awolowo was released from Political prison in 1966, the very following day Banji Akintoye went to see him to recommit himself to following the sage, after the interruption of the prison period.

“Professor Banji Akintoye inherited a mantra from his grandfather – and that mantra is: Serve others, and not just yourself alone.

“By the time the Second Republic was to begin, Banji Akintoye was among those at the University of Ife, who spearheaded the formation of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s “Unity Party of Nigeria” (UPN). As a matter of fact, the Political MANIFESTO (the order of programs and POLICIES) of the great UPN was written by Banji Akintoye!

“Chief Obafemi Awolowo sent Banji Akintoye to Singapore for the purpose of studying the success story of that country so that the same could be done here at home.

“Destiny was beckoning on him!

“Again, Chief Obafemi Awolowo sent Banji Akintoye to Argentina to study how that country came from a lowly status to becoming the world’s greatest producer of BEEF!

“Again, Awolowo sent Banji Akintoye to Brazil to go and study how that country came about a system of good industrialization.

“As the Second Republic approached and campaigns were in top gear, Chief Obafemi Awolowo sent Banji Akintoye to organize the Unity Party of Nigeria in Benue State. While he was on that assignment, he was further detailed to go to the then Cross River State (which included the present Cross River and Akwa Ibom) for the same purpose – to organize Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria in those places.

“Destiny was indeed beckoning on him!

“He was still in Cross River State when his people in Ado-Ekiti nominated him to contest for the Senate seat. That was how Banji Akintoye became a Senator.

“However, the military again took over the Government of Nigeria. Nigeria kept going in the NEGATIVE direction. Meanwhile, the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, had passed on in the year 1987. By the year 1990, with TEARS in his eyes, Banji Akintoye saw that Nigeria had been plunged into darkness and the darkness was getting deeper. With tears in his eyes, he decided, painfully, to relocate to the United States of America, and to fend for himself as a Visiting Professor. Before leaving, he told Mrs. H. I. D. Awolowo, wife of the late sage, that he was relocating briefly to the U.S. for about 2 years – but, within himself, he really didn’t think that he would ever be back again. Nigeria, as led and manipulated by the Fulani oligarchy, had gone beyond redemption. He made that decision in the year 1990.

“He was to be in the U.S. for the next 25 years!

“Little did he know that Destiny had not released its hold on him!

“As time went by, the MAXIMUM DICTATOR, Sani Abacha, took over the control of the Government of Nigeria and RULED with Terror! People were being assassinated right, left and centre! The Yorubas, in particular, were under serious attack. This was the period that Abiola’s wife, Kudirat was killed… and, later, Abiola himself. The Yorubas were under siege!

“Within himself, something told Banji Akintoye, far away in the U.S., that ‘you cannot be here while your people are under siege, and suffering, back at home. It’s time for you to rise!’

“This nudging within him came to a climax in the year 2006; thus, he called a meeting of a few Yoruba intellectuals and told them that he could no longer continue watching his people, the Yorubas, being oppressed back in Nigeria without him doing something. He asked if they would join him in forming an association to work together for the emancipation of the Yoruba people. Thus, Oodua Foundation was formed.

“Oodua Foundation started making research into what the future holds for the Yorubas in Nigeria, and what is the way forward!

“Very soon, Oodua Foundation had members from all over the world! Such that for any meeting, people would come from Australia, Canada, Europe, China, India, and so on. Their focus was on how the Yoruba would be extricated from the destruction that Nigeria had become! It got to a point that they started inviting political leaders from Yorubaland – e.g. Chief Bisi Akande, Chief Bode George, etc., – to attend those meetings of Oodua Foundation in the United States. Oodua Foundation thereafter started writing petitions to the governments of Lagos State and other Yoruba states to let them know that research indicated that certain things were happening to the Yorubas under their watch and what the END RESULT would be if actions are not taken to stop such negative drift.

“By the year 2015, the members of Oodua Foundation told Banji Akintoye, pin-pointedly, that HE WOULD HAVE TO RELOCATE (RETURN) TO YORUBALAND if he did not want his people to go into extinction!

“So, in that year, 2015, the Oodua Foundation appointed 6 people to accompany Banji Akintoye back to Yorubaland!

“With these 6 people, Banji Akintoye travelled round the whole of Yorubaland, visiting and discussing with traditional rulers, elders as well as politicians – like Bola Tinubu, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Fasoranti, Chief Bode George, Chief Olu Falae, etc., etc., telling them to work in such a way as to see what good those Yorubas in government or close to Government might be able to bring to Yorubaland. It was accepted.

“However, as time went on and it was in the news how Fulani herdsmen were inflitrating Yorubaland and other horrible atrocities (even before it got to the present scale), it was finally decided that Professor Banji Akintoye should PERMANENTLY relocate to Yorubaland! That was in December of the year 2015.

“Upon returning, he was VERY SAD to see what was actually happening to Yorubas in their own land. Immediately, he liaised with the Afenifere, of whom he had been a part long before relocating to the U.S. They asked him to be the Chairman of their Political Committee, which he accepted. As reports of Yoruba women being raped and other atrocities being committed against the Yoruba poured in, the Afenifere commissioned Banji Akintoye to embark upon a RESEARCH as to why, how, and from what quarters such atrocities against the Yoruba were coming. It was his terrain – RESEARCH! As a matter of fact, he’s the one who had suggested that such research needed to be done as you cannot be fighting against an enemy that you didn’t even know!

“Banji Akintoye embarked on this research and presented his report! In carrying out the research, he even went BEYOND NIGERIA, as he had heard reports that the organization of the attack against the Yoruba were in fact co-ordinated from outside Nigeria in the West African sub-region!

“From his research, he came to the CONCLUSION that, NO HUMAN BEING CAN SAVE NIGERIA FROM ITS PREDICAMENT!

“He came to the CONCLUSION, also, that Nigeria being so terminally HOSTILE to Yorubas and to Yorubaland, he, Banji Akintoye, is BACK HOME, not to fight for Nigeria, but to fight for Yorubaland.

“Banji Akintoye is the Leader of YORUBA WORLD CONGRESS. He is also the leader of ILANA OMO OODUA (literally meaning: pathfinding for the Yorubas), where he has the title of ALANA OMO OODUA (literally meaning: the PATHFINDER for the Yoruba race).

“He is also the Leader/Chairman of the Nigeria Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self Determination – a coalition of the peoples of South-West, South-East, South-South, and Middle-Belt of Nigeria – peoples that are seeking for deliverance from the EVIL that Nigeria is, and who are now enforcing their Sovereignties and self-actualisation.

“On the 16th day of December, last year (2020), and as Leader of the Nigeria Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self Determination, Banji Akintoye announced to the whole world, via a World Press Conference, as well as letters written to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the United Nations, the Governments of the United States, and so on, that the Peoples of South-West, South-East, South-South, and Middle Belt of what had been known as Nigeria, REJECT the 1999 Constitution and therefore call for Indigenous Nationalities in the space called Nigeria to write their own Constitutions and also called upon the Federal Government of Nigeria to come to the negotiating table where the Indigenous Peoples of Nigeria would state whether or not they still want to have anything to do with Nigeria.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria did NOT respond. Banji Akintoye, as Leader of the Indigenous Peoples for Self Determination, went ahead on Wednesday, 17th March, 2021, to report to the whole world that the Federal Government of Nigeria had failed to respond to the 90-day notice given to it by the Indigenous Nationalities for Self Determination. He thereafter outlined a process by which the Indigenous Peoples of Nigeria from the South-South, South-West, South-East, and Middle Belt would henceforth free themselves from the oppression called Nigeria. He called, on the platform of the Indigenous Nationalities for Self Determination, he called for Ethnic nations to perfect the instruments of their Sovereignty – their geographical map, their Constitutions, as well as embark upon and intensify EFFORTS towards having REFERENDUMS and PLEBISCITES in order to tell the world whether they still want to remain in Nigeria or not. He also stated that the 1999 Constitution having now become defunct and TERMINATED, the peoples of the Southern and Middle Belt of Nigeria should get galvanized to carry out the necessary steps to actualising self-determination. He said carefully made steps towards this end would be made.

“For the Yoruba Nation in particular, Banji Akintoye has stated that there’s no going back – the Sovereignty and Self-Determination and Self-Governance of the Yoruba Nation is non-negotiable!

“At 86 years of age, Destiny has gone full-circle in LAYING HOLD upon Banji Akintoye!”

We, at The Boss, rejoice with a man of vision!

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.