THEWILL DOWNTOWN DEC 05 EDITION

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

TITI KUTI From behind the scenes to being in front of the camera

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

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Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Desire Onyema @desire_makeover

EDITOR’S NOTE

The past week was playing out to be an exciting one; I had made plans to attend Arise Fashion Week in Dubai, there was a rumour about Rihanna expecting her first child, and then, boom! News broke of the Omicron variant of COVID in Nigeria.

I can’t help but wonder if the vaccines we have already taken will protect us from this new variant, and if not, then what next? Already the U.S and some European countries have placed a travel ban on some African countries, and just when UAE lifted the travel ban on Nigeria, Omicron ‘graced’ us with its presence.

My question is how long before we can know what the actual situation is with COVID? Are we supposed to just sit or even worse go into another lockdown in hopes of getting past this season? Until we have answers, please stay safe out there.

To a more pleasant topic, this week at THEWILL DOWNTOWN, we feature someone who is loved for the role he played as the loyal right-hand man, Ade Tiger, in King of Boys.

Titi Kuti, once a producer and as such spent most of his time behind the scenes, has proven that he is just as good in front of the camera as he is behind it. His stellar performance as Ade Tiger gained him much popularity and love from fans home and abroad, and now, the producer turned actor is poised to take on more movie roles. In this interview, he talks about the process of getting into character, Nollywood and Netflix, the Nigerian movie industry, and his new projects. Catch that on page 8.

Our other pages have captivating articles including home décor ideas this Christmas season, and Slip’n Slide in our adult section of the magazine, Downtown Confidential. Don’t miss our interview with former Big Brother Naija housemate, Cross, in which he talks about living with dyslexia. And of course, you have your weekly dose of fashion, beauty, movie review, and Sórósoke.

CONTENTS

COVER TITI KUTI FROM BEHIND THE SCENES TO BEING IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA

16

SÓRÓSOKE DOWNTOWN REDEFINING FASHION WITH FRUGIRLS

04-05

14-15

FASHION LEAVE THE HATERS GREEN WITH ENVY THIS PARTY SEASON

SPECIAL FEATURE IKECHUKWU ‘CROSS’ OKONKWO THE DIPLOMAT

Cover Story Photography - Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Stylist - John Angel For De Angelic Touch @deangelictouch Creative Direction by the Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Ripped T-Shirt, Black Jeans, Silver Twist Necklace, Silver Punk Bracelet, Trench Coat & Rings -Stylist’s Wardrobe

06

REVIEW ETERNALS

07

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL SLIP ‘N SLIDE

13

LIVING HO-ME! HO-ME! HO-ME! CHRISTMAS DECOR INSPO

12

11

LIVING MINIMALIST SOFA SKINCARE PRODUCTS TYPES YOU SHOULD TO HELP YOU GET ACQUAINTED DE-STRESS WITH BEAUTY

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity

- Contributing Editor Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

WHAT YOU SAID INSTAGRAM @drewuiyi

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Editor-at-Large: Chalya Shagaya Senior Lifestyle Editor: Ayodele Johnson Writers: Kehinde Fagbule, Tilewa Kazeem Graphics/Layout: Olaniyan John Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘ SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

David Nwachukwu @ebube.nw - Contributing Writer David Nwachukwu has always been immersed in fashion from the age of 10, watching a Dior by Galliano show on television.

His work in fashion stretches across media, marketing, brand communications as well as design.As a fashion & lifestyle journalist, David has tracked key industry data for various publications including Industrie Africa, Culture Custodian, Haute Fashion Africa, and HELLO! Nigeria. A Geography graduate from The University of Lagos, David consciously aligns this background in environmental advocacy and sustainable development with the need to promote a more ethical fashion ecosystem. He currently oversees strategic communications at Clean Technology Hub.

Efua Oyofo @efuastar

- Contributing Writer Efua has always enjoyed telling stories.

A writer and cultural storyteller, Efua Oyofo helps clients tell their most compelling story. She focuses on social impact storytelling, and hosts a podcast: This African Love, exploring the culture of dating - and helping people develop more effective ways to navigate relationships in today’s world.

Thanks Guys

@talltalesoflondon

@aycomedian_world

Greatness

@Segalink

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

FASHION

BY BLESSING MUKORHO

I

t’s the last month of the year, and as is customary, there will be various end-of-year ceremonies organized in the form of dinners, balls, parties, and week-long events. At this time of the year, people all over the world show up in their fanciest clothes to the choicest events to end the year in style; friends, family, and coworkers included.

Like Miuccia Prada said, “What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language.”

And so we ask the question: what language will you be speaking this party season?

In one word, green.

There are many colours to explore, and green is of the top three.

From emerald to lime and forest green, this colour is said to have two hundred and ninety-five (295) shades. This means there are plenty of options at your disposal.

Go Green or Go Home From mini dresses to evening gowns, there are several chic green styles to explore. An asymmetric gathered gown or cut-out gown are gorgeous options for an evening out this party season.

To gain some edge at that evening event, you may go for an embroidered cape dress or a sequined feather-trim gown.

Asymetric Gathered Gown MICHELLE MASON

Sequined Feather Trim Gown JENNY PACKHAM

Leaf Embroidered Cut Out Gown OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Embroidered Cape Dress MARCHESSA NOTTE

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

FASHION Petit Mais Puissant Mini dresses, in various shades of green and distinct patterns, are the perfect choice for achieving a playful yet classy look.

Green In My Bag Look like you definitely secured the bag in these stunning green totes or wallets.

Faye Ruched Mini Dress STELLA MCCARTNEY

Small Hobo Chain Tote Bag JW ANDERSON

Green Nino Tote Bag 0711 One Shoulder Draped Midi Dress MARIA LUCIA HOHAN

Hourglass Crocodile Effect Chain Wallet BALENCIAGA Ava Balloon Sleeves Mini Dress BERNADETTE Semi Sheer Lace Dress DOLCE & GABBANA

All Over Snakeskin Print Sandals THE ATTICO Peridot Green Garnet & 18kt Gold Earrings ROSA DE LA CRUZ

Grow Through What You Go Through

A Lush Lock to Seal the Deal

18k Rose Gold Green Beaded Bracelet GIGI CLOZEAU

Don’t forget to pair your outfits with lush green accessories.

Whether in boots, sandals, or pumps, you will definitely have heads turning when you arrive in these luxurious green shoes.

Wire Stretch Leather Sandals BOTTEGA VENETA Green Hangisi 90 Satin Pumps MANOLO BLAHNIK

May Emerald Diamond & 14kt Gold Bracelet ANISSA KERMICHE

Green Tourmaline & 22kt Gold Ring ELI HALILI

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THEWILL THEWILL DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN

VOL 11 NO.43 NO.42 •• DECEMBER NOVEMBER 05 28 –– DECEMBER DECEMBER 11, 04, 2021 2021 VOL

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Movie Review:

ETERNALS

Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Apple Music)

Playlist for the week

GoldLink_ Tyler, The Creator_ Jay Prince - U Say (feat. Tyler, The

Mayorkun_ Victony - Holy Father

Mura Masa - An Interlude

The word “auteur” is used to refer both to independent filmmakers displaying their originality under conditions of artistic freedom and to filmmakers who assert their individuality within the confines of the studio system. Chloé Zhao, the director of Nomadland, has always been the first kind of auteur, and with Eternals, , she takes her place among the second. Such a transition can be fascinating. Ryan Coogler’s artistic hand was unambiguously strong in Black Panther, as was Peyton Reed’s in the first Ant-Man. But directorial personality— and, even more so, originality—is generally hard to come by in the stringently produced, tightly interlocking Marvel domain. Zhao has said that she actively sought out the chance to direct a Marvel film. She was also one of the four writers of the “Eternals” script, and it shows: far from being an impersonal film, it blends her sensibility and the franchise’s, albeit to the advantage of neither.

As harsh as that may sound, this is not a bad film and there are quite a number of things this film has going for it. The first of these is the cinematography. In this, her version of the MCU she manages to find magic hour wherever she goes, from a breezy sunset on the shores of ancient Babylon to ominous storm clouds gathering on the plains of present-day South Dakota. Working with cinematographer Ben Davis, who also shot Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange, and Captain Marvel, she consistently provides opportunities to let us slow down, take a breath, and enjoy a moment of naturalism and stillness. You can feel the sunbaked heat of the windy Australian outback. An action scene set in a torch-lit forest at night is especially stunning.

As the potential first installment in a new series, the movie serves as an extended meet-and-greet, so it’s heavy on introductions (who are they, what do they do?) that delineate the powers, sensibilities, histories, and relationships of the 10 Eternals.

It’s a crowded marquee but, as in the Hollywood star system, some lights shine brighter than others. The headliner is Sersi (Chan), a caring, somewhat reluctant champion who’s living in London and dating Jon Snow,

PAGE 6

Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Spotify)

Kizz Daniel - Pour Me Water

Davido_ Focalistic - Champion Sound

Mura Masa_ Nao - Complicated

a.k.a. Kit Harington’s Dane Whitman, when Deviant trouble roars into town. The enemy incursion instigates the reunion and the amusing entrance of Jon Snow’s bro, Robb Stark, a.k.a. Richard Madden, who plays Ikaris. He and Sersi have history; it’s not complicated.

The actors are the movie’s great superpower and give it warmth, even a bit of heat, and a pulse of life that’s never fully quelled by the numerous clamorous action sequences. Bryan Tyree Henry, Don Lee, and Barry Keoghan are particularly crucial to keeping your sympathies engaged. Henry’s character, Phastos, is the most vivid, partly because his superhero has an identifiably real side, but primarily because of the actor’s unforced sense of empathy and delicate expressivity.

Lee offers some much-needed comedy and makes a surprisingly effective foil for Jolie, while Keoghan adds some prickly menace.

On the face of it, this film has quite a lot going for it.

So why was I so emotionally detached and dare I say it, bored by the final 40 minutes of this film? The pacing, while pretty sharp and bouncy for the first half of the flick completely grinds to a halt around the midway point and devolves into a long, long exposition dump about the true nature of the Eternals and their mission on Earth.

I found myself unable to properly connect with these characters, so when a number of them inordinately die or just up and leave the movie, I found it hard to care.

The core enemies of our heroes, the Eternals are another issue. Marvel seemed to have been past its teething issues with creating compelling villains but the Deviants in this film are as grey, bland, and altogether uninspiring as a foil to our heroes. It really does feel like the Eternals as a team would be better served if this film had been a Disney+ series, with space and time given to fleshing out each of these characters.

Eternals is adapted from a series of 1970s comics by the

Knucks - Los Pollos Hermanos

Medasin_ Kathleen - Always Afternoon

KAYTRANADA_ Mick Jenkins Gray Area (feat. Mick Jenkins)

Teedra Moses_ KAYTRANADA - Be Your Girl (Kaytranada Edition) great Jack Kirby, and traces remain of his visionary design, but Zhao and her three co-writers have weighed it down with a daft plan – “If we can assemble device X and attach it to device Y then we can defeat enemy Z” – and a standard CGI-heavy showdown to round things off. The results aren’t terrible. They’re definitely watchable.

But considering that this sci-fi saga is directed by Zhao and that its story spans the creation of the universe and the fate of the planet, it would have been reasonable to expect it to prompt slack-jawed wonder rather than the grudging appreciation of an efficient, workmanlike job. Eternals may not be the worst of Marvel’s movies, but it’s undoubtedly the most disappointing.

Rating: 5/10

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

Slip ‘n Slide

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

Hybrid 4 Oz Lubricant JO

L

ooking back, you can’t help but cringe at what our predecessors used as an alternative to lubes. Although they began the journey to sexual satisfaction, not all made it to the end.

The Greeks—who happened to be huge sex enthusiasts— used olive oil to anoint their genitalia to get the avalanche of sexual juices flowing.

The Edo people of Japan weren’t far behind when it came to sex albeit threading a different path. They turned to the sea for a solution and derived a gelatinous substance called carrageenan from seaweed. And if you think that was weird, a paste-like replacement called tororo-jiru might change that. Made from grated yams, this lube doesn’t exist anymore and is now a popular soup in Japan. As centuries went on, more appropriate solutions sprung up, some of which retained properties from the past.

Some lube and condoms which lay idle in drawers and nightstands—until called upon—contain carrageenan.

A widely less commercialized option would be saliva. Something that had and is still the default source of lubrication. A form of lube I have used one too many times. But there was a time I wished I had had some lube.

I was in my second or third year in university and at the time, I was in a situationship with a nympho—credit to her by the way for all these great stories— and at that time all we did was just have sex like rabbits on viagra.

Her roommate had gone home for the weekend and sex was all that was on our weekend itinerary. And at the time, I was just excited to have sex and I had packed all the essentials for the journey ahead. I got down from the Okada, paid and walked into her hostel. Once I got in, this girl was all ready for me and my penis.

There and then, the first round began.

The first bled into the second and then the third. Right when I was getting into the groove of it, her insides started feeling less slippery and more painful for everyone. Taking the initiative, I hurled all the saliva my parched throat could generate and smeared it all over our genitals but it wasn’t enough.

Arched in the doggy position, she handed me some water as an unlikely and unheard-of alternative. Right after I had smuggled some gulps of water, I doused what was left of it on her lady part but that didn’t help either. Our sex up until the eve of Sunday was stuttered until we agreed to go get some olive oil from the pharmacy. On that weekend was when I realised; after sperm all that’s left is air. Just painful pleasure, pain and nothing but air. Just like a ball getting deflated.

With the different sexual proclivities roaming wildly and freely in the world now the lube industry has done well to evolve with it. How it has done that, you’d soon find out.

UBERLUBE

Lubricant REPLENS

All-Natural Intimate Moisturizer, Lubricant COCO BLISS

What Types Are There?

Water-Based Lubricant LUBE LIFE

When selecting the lube that’s right for you, you’ll want to consider the different types available.

• Water • Silicone • Oil • Hybrid

Water-Based Lubes

Made from H2O, A water-based lube has the advantage of being able to be used for practically any activity you can imagine even activities that involve silicone toys. The popularity of this type of lube is based on three reasons: You can be rest assured it wouldn’t stain your garments, it is easy on the skin, and it is easily removed with water. Good options would be Lube Life Water-Based Lubricant and Shibari Personal Lubricant.

Silk Hybrid Lube SLIQUID

Silicone-Based Lubes

O Organic Oil-Based Lubricant ASTROGLIDE

Personal Lubricant SHIBARI

What Is Lube And Why Is It Necessary?

I’ve heard people naively express their distaste for lube without ever trying or having a tangible and coherent reason—something not entirely out of place amongst our species.

The personal lubricant was created to wring out the best possible pleasure out of sex and prevent vaginal dryness. I’m speaking from experience when I say, no matter how horny and eager both parties are to have sex, neither of them can account for vaginal dryness. When that happens, trust that thirst will get defenestrated—hence the need for it.

Perhaps you’ve found your perfect match if you’re looking for something that doesn’t need reapplying as often. A silicone-based lube usually lasts longer, is thicker, and silkier. If you’re one how loves shower sex then hurdle up because this type of lube would stop the party from going and going and going. You can keep going till mama calls. Uberlube and Replens Lubricant are sufficient to keep the party going.

Oil-Based Lubes

In contrast, oil-based lubes are thicker, but do not last as long as the others. Massage time just got better as oil-based lubes can also be sexy and fun despite their usual job. One notable con would be being wary of stains using it.

O Organic Oil-based Lubricant from AstroGlide and All-Natural Intimate Moisturizer, Lubricant from Coco Bliss are excellent choices.

Hybrid Lubes

These lubricants are a mixture of silicone and water-based formulas; they last longer than water-based lubes, but are not as thick. Sliquid Silk Hybrid Lube and Jo Hybrid 4 Oz Lubricant are solid options.

PAGE 7

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER

TITI KUTI FROM BEHIND THE SCENES TO BEING IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA.

give a proper assessment of me, but personally, once I have those aforementioned three principles, I’m fine.

In that same vein, there has to be some limit to Ade Tiger’s loyalty. What would you say is the one thing he wouldn’t do for his boss?

[Laughs] That’s a tricky question. I would say that according to the script at least, there’s almost nothing he wouldn’t do for his boss. If she asked him to betray her I don’t think he would do it.

The inner workings of any media production involves way more people than just the actors. There are location managers, hair and makeup specialists, wardrobe managers, and of course, the crew. Tying all of these together is not an easy task, and for most producers, this is a thankless job. With more than 10 years in the business, Titi Kuti knows this more than most. His experiences with big live shows such as Nigeria’s Got Talent, Nigerian Idol, and more, alongside more mainstream film and television productions have made him a showbusiness veteran.

His most recent forays, however, have moved him from behind the camera into more acting roles, such as 2018’s King of Boys (KOB) and this year’s sequel, King of Boys: Return of the King. In this sitdown with DOWNTOWN’s Boluwatife Adesina, he takes us through this unique career path, his interests, and the Nigerian film industry as a whole.

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Photography - Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Stylist - John Angel For De Angelic Touch @deangelictouch Creative Direction by the Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Ripped T-Shirt, Black Jeans, Silver Twist Necklace, Silver Punk Bracelet, Trench Coat, Brown Timberland Boots & Rings -Stylist’s Wardrobe

F

irstly I want to congratulate you on a great performance in King of Boys II. What was your favorite part of the role?

So many favourite parts. The reason for this is because there are some scenes that I feel attached to because I know what it took to bring them to life. I would say that my top three favourite scenes were: The scene where I was with Sola Sobowale and my character was getting angry that she was focusing on the election instead of everything else going on.

The welcome scene where Mrs. Salami was thanking Ade Tiger for standing by her. That may seem like a smaller scene but for me, that was one of the few scenes where Ade Tiger showed emotion in the entire series.

The third scene was the end scene, where everyone thought I would betray Oba but I stood my ground.

Ade Tiger’s fierce loyalty to Alhaja Salami is maybe the defining characteristic of his career. Just how important is loyalty to you in your everyday life?

It is very important to me. There are three principles I try to guide myself by in everything that I do: Do right

by God and do right by principle; that is, is it the right thing to do? Thirdly, I try to do right by my conscience.

If I have those three, I’m good.

As regards me being a loyal person, you’d have to ask those I have encountered in the journey. They can

Boxer’s ‘betrayal’ was left slightly ambiguous. Can you explain more clearly the circumstances around that?

One thing I can say about KOB is that it’s a show that has to be seen at least 3 times. The first watch-through you probably will be carried away by the action, and with subsequent watches comes clarity. So I’m going to leave part of that question up to curiosity, for those who have only watched it once to go rewatch it. I’ll say this though: Boxer signed up to join us, possibly knowing that he was expendable, a sacrificial lamb for the greater good. It’s not every story beat that is passed across via dialogue. I’d suggest a rewatch of KOB2 to fully grasp the plot. I’ll even throw out a question to the readers: at what point did Ade Tiger tell Eniola Salami everything that had transpired? It wasn’t shown on screen, but keen eyes will know the moment it happened.

Have you ever been in a situation where your loyalty to someone was repaid with bad? How did you handle that?

So many times actually. One thing I’ve learned is people will be who they are. Don’t expect to get back exactly what you give to people. People will be who they are. Some will give more, some will give less. Irrespective of that, it has never discouraged me from trusting people. What I do is trust with my head and my eyes, not trusting blindly. I believe there is still good in humanity and won’t distrust another person because of what someone else did to me.

Your character’s on-screen relationship with Alhaja Salami’s character is one of the strongest on the show. Did you get to know Mrs. Sobowale any better as a result?

One thing not many people know is that I’d met Sola Sobowale before even KOB 1. I’ve been a producer for a really long time and I met Mrs. Sobowale during her time on a show I produced for Africa Magic way back when called Hustle. I

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER produced three seasons of that show and that is when we had our first encounter. During that time I was acting on the side and it was even on Hustle that I first appeared in front of the camera. So Sola Sobowale once pointed out to me that most actors, after long careers, go and learn production. She said that since my production skills are already there, why don’t I push this acting thing.

She really spoke to something that was already on my mind and that’s how my acting career started. The first time that she and I were going to work on screen was a remake of a 90s blockbuster called Palace.

The producers had been speaking to her about finding someone to play her son. When she saw that I had auditioned for the role, she just jumped on it right away. So that was the first time that she and I worked together in an acting capacity. When KOB 1 came around, having worked with her previously, I understood her pace and working style. You can’t work with her and not give your best.

What she brings to the table will push you up. So it’s not a relationship that started recently. We’re bosom friends.

How did you get in the right frame of mind to play the character? How did you approach that?

For Ade Tiger, in KOB 1 I fell in love with what Kemi Adetiba was going for with the character. In this part of the world, the stereotypical physique and mannerism of an enforcer are that of a bouncer with a deep voice.

She went a different way. The most powerful gangsters are not usually built like brick houses. So when Kemi Adetiba came up with this character I was intrigued. To get into the right frame of mind, I disengaged for a month. I saw the magnitude of both the story’s potential impact and my character’s place in that story. For the first 10 days, while disengaging, I read the script. For all the viewers of the show who noted all the twists and turns present in the plot, all the actors were stunned by the unpredictability of the script as well! The next two weeks were spent becoming Ade Tiger. I was memorising lines, watching shows and films that had similar characters.

I spent some time discussing the character’s wardrobe with the costume designer as well. We broke down every scene and the look for every scene that Ade Tiger appeared in. Even after all the preparation, Kemi Adetiba wanted more. During the filing period, I was Ade Tiger. I couldn’t switch out at any point in time. I would be hanging out with castmates but deep down, Ade Tiger was looking to run the next line.

Who have been some of the biggest influences on your acting career?

I have a lot of people that I watched for a long time coming up, but the person I would say that has affected my career most directly is Sola Sobowale, definitely. RMD (Richard

Photography - Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Stylist - John Angel For De Angelic Touch @deangelictouch Creative Direction by the Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Sweater, Leather Pants, Rings, Silver Studs, Timbeland BootsStylist’s Wardrobe

Mofe-Damijo) was another actor I looked up to for the longest time. I finally got to meet him and speak to him on the set of King of Boys and he was surprised to hear how often I watched him and even practiced his monologues. There are so many other actors that I haven’t had the opportunity to meet, but if I do I’ll definitely mention to them the influence they had on my craft.

all, I try as much as possible to take time to respond to as many as I can. I haven’t gotten too much criticism, however, which is what I actually look out for. I didn’t watch the film for the first two weeks. I was looking to hear feedback and criticism before watching because if you watch before hearing the reviews, you may not see what the people who gave feedback were talking about. Once I’m back in Nigeria, one of the first things I want to do is a meet and greet so that anyone interested can come and say hello. There’s no need to be proud. I’ve seen how easily some people can get so entitled. I always try to keep things in perspective.

How do you feel when you make your fans become engrossed in the lives of your character? Does it ever spill into your real life?

Firstly, I want to say that I have as much love for the fans as they have for me. It’s every actor’s joy to have created an experience for the viewers with their performance. It’s a rare privilege.

People do walk up to me and try to get conversations going and I welcome all of them. My DMs are flooded and even though I can’t possibly answer them

The entertainment industry is said to be full of stress and pressure; what do you do to tackle said pressure?

One thing I like to do is live life to the fullest. Everyone has one life to live and if you miss out on actually living it, it’s difficult to get that back. So for me, I have several ways in which I deal with pressure. Sometimes I disappear, sometimes I socialise, it varies. I’m an adventurous person, I like to try new stuff and go new places. It’s not that I have a place of zen or anything like that.

Today you can find me skydiving, tomorrow you may find me scuba diving.

The truth is, every creative is insatiable. The minute you have an accomplishment, you start looking forward to the next level and I am very guilty of that. It’s just how I’m wired.

I’m always trying to move forward.”

Obviously, we have to ask the question about your family ties as not a lot has been said about it. Are you related to the Kutis?

There’s actually an article online from the Tribune newspaper that answers this question. I’ve seen a lot of other articles that insinuate that I am Fela’s hidden son and other unsavory things.

I‘ll clear the air. It’s the same family, we’re related but I’m not his son. My father is still very much alive. Fela was someone I greatly admired from childhood as someone who spoke truth to power through his music and refused to be silenced. For what it’s worth, I’m proud to be associated by blood with his family, but I’m not his son. He has biological children and things like what those unsavory articles publish affect them as well.

Tell us about your transition from behind the cameras to in front of it.

I started my career as a presenter on Nigezie TV, a lifestyle and entertainment channel in the late 2000s. My boss then would always tell me about how I was underutilising my capacity and he made me a producer of the show I was presenting on. A few months down the line, four more shows were given to me to produce, and eventually, I became the head of production on the channel. Shortly after, I began producing all the big format shows like Nigeria’s Got Talent, Nigerian Idol. I did that for five years.

It was until 2016 when Hustle on Africa Magic got started that I

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER …For Ade Tiger, in KOB 1 I fell in love with what Kemi Adetiba was going for with the character… To get into the right frame of mind, I disengaged for a month. I saw the magnitude of both the story’s potential impact and my character’s place in that story. For the first 10 days, while disengaging, I read the script… The next two weeks were spent becoming Ade Tiger.”

Photography - Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Stylist - John Angel For De Angelic Touch @deangelictouch Creative Direction by the Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Ripped T-Shirt, Black Jeans, Silver Twist Necklace, Silver Punk Bracelet, Trench Coat, Brown Timberland Boots & Rings -Stylist’s Wardrobe

got back into mainstream television production.

From there I got into acting when I had to step into a role due to conflicts with one of our day players. It was meant to be a one-off but the character kept getting written into the show. The next time I was on screen was in a film called Palace, a remake of a 90s blockbuster. After Palace was King of Boys.

What was it like being on the King of Boys set working with the biggest names in Nollywood?

I had already worked with many of the actors on the show in a producer’s capacity. It even became a joke they would crack, feigning surprise that I had stepped in front of the camera. All of the cast were very mature during the filming process.

In KOB 2 especially, every actor was like a blockchain. The weakest link failing would’ve made the film less impactful than it should’ve been so everyone was carried along. The togetherness was so strong that everyone was fine with coming back to reshoot a scene because of one person. We had an actors’ WhatsApp group and everyone had the same level of professionalism. Both the cast and crew were in harmony with the director’s vision. No one grumbled about reshoots. Everyone was there for excellence. It was a very challenging shoot, but every step of it was worth it all the way. KOB’s filming was a film on its own.

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Nollywood is the second largest movie industry in the world only after Hollywood. Where do you see our production level now in comparison to the world’s greatest productions?

What I would say about Nollywood is that the last 20 years have been a tremendous leap. The progression has been geometric. The narratives are better, the film quality is better. I’m glad that projects like KOB have redefined the perception of narratives concerning the inclusion of indigenous languages. You can’t sell the narrative without the language. It’s so important. If you look at films like The Wedding Party, that’s why those films are that successful. The narratives are indigenous enough that the average Nigerian would watch that film and note that that is how a proper Iya Basira would behave. KOB 2 did this as well. The gangsterism portrayed in that film is real ground-level stuff. Makanaki spoke Yoruba, Odogwu Malay spoke Igbo, that is what made the film so rich. There are a couple of films on Netflix that are doing great things for Nigeria like Smart Money Women. We aren’t at the finish line yet, but we’ve come a long way from where we started. The eyes of the world are turning to us. Someone sent me a video of a session in the UK parliament where the chairman was talking about KOB. These people don’t speak Yoruba or Igbo but they still appreciated a good film. If you make a Sango film today that is faithful to the character, do you think it won’t give Thor a run for his money? Imagine having a $1 Million budget to shoot Sango and you give it to Kemi Adetiba to direct. All those stories in the western world, we have their equivalents or even superiors here.

Were you comfortable with the more serialized format of KOB 2 or do you prefer the more familiar environment of a movie set?

I would say that in Nigeria, the pressure is the same. I know there are financial and time constraints, but I want to implore more producers to have more of an emphasis on actors absorbing characters than they currently do.

The reason why you see the same faces in a lot of films these days is that, to a large extent, those guys are trusted by the producers. Most producers believe they don’t have time to discover new talents. The only way you can discover new talents is to give them a chance. Even these experienced actors, no matter how good they are, would do even better if they were given time. Hopefully, we get more money pumped into our industry so there can be a budget to accommodate these things.

How much do you think streaming platforms like Netflix have changed Nollywood?

I think it’s a very welcome development. Netflix has become a platform with a global audience. For you to become an international act, you need various platforms that provide different alternatives. The fact that Netflix is here does not stop cinemas from making their money.

Platforms like Netflix have quickly identified the traction they have gained in Nigeria and are seeking to leverage on that. Nigerian actors are now getting put front and

center. I saw Sola Sobowale in the same graphic as Idris Elba. That is how you globalise the industry, with alternative platforms.

You’re a model, presenter, producer, director, actor. Do you have any hidden talents we don’t know about?

[Laughs] I’m still discovering myself daily. If I find something I have an anointing for, I’ll definitely try it. It’s one life I’ve got.

Are you going to act more or you’re going to balance your time with production?

Definitely, I’ll act more. Production is already in my DNA. There are projects that will come up that I will be involved in as a producer, but I definitely will act more. I believe I have a mark to make so I definitely will act more. That doesn’t mean you’ll see me in 10 films in one year though. I don’t think I’m that person. I will definitely push the acting more.

Do you have any projects we should be looking forward to?

Yes, I do, I have a project I’m working on. I’m not going to let the cat out of the bag just yet, but the project is filming.

You wear tattoo sleeves a lot. Have you ever considered getting tatted up?

I thought of it severally, but I just couldn’t make up my mind on what to get tatted on me. That’s the only reason I don’t have one.

If I get one today, within a year my whole body will be painted.

It’s obviously also permanent. So that’s why I just settled for tattoo sleeves. Up until when I can decide that there’s a particular design I want permanently, I’ll be using the sleeves. I can buy and wear them anytime. Some of them look so real too.

Outside of the film industry, do you have any other major interests or passions?

I’ve always wanted to be a flyboy.

Whether in the air force or as a commercial pilot. The military was actually my first love. It was my dream to either be in the military or be a pilot. Or both: a military pilot [laughs]. Even if I don’t go into commercial flights, I’ll definitely get a plane and learn to fly around the world.

How would you rate your satisfaction level at this stage of your career?

The truth is, every creative is insatiable. The minute you have an accomplishment, you start looking forward to the next level and I am very guilty of that. It’s just how I’m wired. I’m always trying to move forward. Sometimes in my moving forward, it has moved me back. That doesn’t stop me though.

I’m very insatiable, not greedy, but insatiable. I’m happy with the progression so far, but in terms of being satisfied, very far from it.

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

BEAUTY

SKINCARE PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU DE-STRESS

BY SOPHIA EDISI

S

ince the pandemic, It’s been almost impossible not to feel stressed, and I would say some people are still feeling the effects to date. As we approach the new year, getting that happy skin and happy mind should be one of your top priorities. Taking a moment to focus on your skincare routine is one self-care ritual that will help you decompress during this unprecedented time.

Scientifically, whenever there is any kind of stress, the body produces hormones such as cortisol, a chemical known to stimulate physiological responses in our bodies. An excessive release of cortisol due to stress will disrupt other hormones and aggravate multiple skin concerns that manifest on your face and lead to blemishes such as eczema, clog pores, or breakouts.

Also due to poor sleep, a collection of fluids can occur below the lower eyelid and increase the appearance of under-eye bags.

There’s an abundance of choice in de-stressing your skin to prevent such flare-ups. So you might want to take advantage of anti-stress skincare products. Here are some skincare brands that utilize de-stressing ingredients that are centered around relaxation.

Pure Serenity Golden C Serum LOUM

Pure and Organic Tamunu Oil JUICY CHEMISTRY Shanti Stress Relief Spray FOREST ESSENTIALS An essential oil spray that nourishes your skin with a scent of lavender, lime, and peppermint to relax your nerves and mind.

It contains rejuvenating ingredients such as ginger, ginseng, and goji berry and the essence of clear crystal and crab apple to help cleanse your mind and soul.

This product is made with nourishing ingredients like the Rose of Jericho, which helps lock in moisture, plus the scent of rose also acts as a calming agent.

Ayanna Henderson

Made with Tri∙Serene Complex which is the first skin-calming complex combining active natural ingredients designed to revive stressed, tired skin.

Inner Clarity Cleanser STRANGE BIRD

Reviving Aura Mist KEYS SOULCARE

Stress Positive Eye Lift Masque DERMALOGICA It contains arctic algae and hyaluronic acid blend that act as an active cooling masque to help depuff baggy eyes.

This is a skin regenerating oil with antioxidant and antibacterial that promotes healing and growth of healthy skin

Stress Repair Face Cream DR DENNIS GROSS Enriched with niacinamide (B3), superfoods, and adaptogens, it will help reduce the visibility of stress.

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

LIVING

SLEEPER SOFAS You might be wondering; aren’t all sofas made for sleeping? Well, if all our mothers’ constant “stop sleeping on the couch” meant anything then not all sofas are made to be slept on. But this is, as it doubles down as a couch and bed.

Trundle Sleeper Sofa BEDFORD QUEEN

4

Queen Super Sleeper ALEX SUPER

MINIMALIST SOFA TYPES You Should Get Acquainted With

LEATHER SOFAS Luxury and leather are a match made in heaven and if you’re going for that luxe look and feel then, by all means, add it to the cart. You’ll be getting comfort and sophistication as a bonus.

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

Nigerians back in the day usually just winged it when it came to getting the best couch. If it wasn’t leathery and uncomfortable —not like that ever stopped us from laying on it— it was made from the same fabric used to make the curtains. And whoever told our parents that having a napkin on the sofa headrest was a good idea must be a billionaire because it was a decorative epidemic.

Thanks to civilization, we’ve seen that drab home design given that long-overdue face life. With minimalist and Bohemian inspiration waiting to be explored, we finally have some variety when it comes to choosing the right sofa. Selecting the right couch can cost you repeated trips to whatever Nigeria’s version of Bed, Bath and Beyond is with no luck.

Well, to save you tons of hours in traffic looking for that, we’ve put together a list to help you narrow down what you want and what you don’t want.

Grey Leather Sofa ALL MODERNx

Rawhide Brown Sofa CIGAR

RECESSED ARM SOFA

SQUARE ARM SOFAS By their names, you shall know them. They are pretty much hard to miss so when in doubt, look out for square arms.

An English sofa style’s low-set and sloping sofa arms are a hallmark of the style.

Recessed Arm Sofa JAYDE

Cameron Square Arm Deep Seat Grand Sofa POTTERY BARN

Recessed Arm Sofa FAIRLOP 96

Square Arm Sofa with Reversible Cushions HOME

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

HO-ME! HO-ME! HO-ME! Christmas Decor Inspo

LIVING

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

As White As A Snowman If your living room is as cosy and white as snow, you might consider replicating this look.

Christmas wreaths hung on walls and placed on the centre table creates the perfect blend as well - green and white look good together.

Nocturnal Rooms

C

hristmas. Around the time of the year when we have a genuine reason to touch up our abodes. Think about it; the other holidays and festive periods don’t exactly get marketed as shiny and decorative as Jesus’ birthday. Our homes are the most sacred geographic location of our livelihood, they form our living and are instrumental to our journey. Whether minimalist or extravagant layouts, we have the autonomy to decide what our spaces look like but oftentimes, we need help with decor ideas.

The key to having the perfect home Christmas decor is picking the right tree, lights, and ornaments.

Here are some Christmas decor ideas you can replicate in your home this season.

The Year of Wooden Trees Do something daring and absolutely gorgeous by setting up a wooden Christmas tree this year.

Beautified by ornaments, this could transform your home in ways you never imagined.

If your living room is not as well lit, or you prefer an ambience that looks best when dim, you want to invest heavily in the tree. Making sure it is well-lit might sound like a contradiction seeing that the point of this decor is so that the room doesn’t have a lot of natural light. But turning off the chandeliers and allowing the tree to light up the room is very Christmassy.

The Trees Are Perfect At Your Entrance The tree placement is a very important factor in what makes a Christmas decor aesthetically appealing. However, not many people would expect to have them at your door entrance.

Think of them as your guardian angels, then this positioning is befitting.

Santa’s Bedroom Trees The wreath, the placement of the mini tree by the corner, enjoying a bounce of sunlight, the throw pillows, and the scarf on the edge of the bedroom bench. This looks like the perfect breakfast inn Christmas decor for photo ops. It could be yours as well.

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

SPECIAL FEATURE

IKECHUKWU ‘CROSS’ OKONKWO THE DIPLOMAT Family support matters for wellbeing and the purpose of feeling satisfied with oneself. A former Big Brother Naija housemate, Ikechukwu Okonkwo popularly called Cross, found this to be true while waiting his turn to enter into the competition. Finally, after several attempts and an admission, Cross is equipped with new knowledge about himself. He has learned of his high threshold for patience, a quality that he never thought existed.

Although slightly disadvantaged through the handicap of dyslexia, three months in the house has taught him to be fearless wearing his own skin. In isolation with strangers that later turned friends, spiritual awareness within him has grown and prompted absolute trust in the unseen but assured protection of God. In Cross’ universe, a fascinating, sunny future he is anticipating will see him assume a storyteller’s image; one who is busy telling remarkable Afrocentric stories to the ever listening world. He opens up to DOWNTOWN’s Ayodele Johnson about living with dyslexia and so much more.

Y

our journey into the house involved a bit of diplomacy. You had to convince your evangelist mum to support your interest. What can you share about your experience?

I know my mum. The most important thing to her is her children no matter the situation we find ourselves. That’s the number one rule for my mum.

I remember when she wanted to remarry, I didn’t want that to happen and my siblings didn’t want that to happen as well because we were like; ‘no! we don’t want our dad’s memory to fade away’. My mum was very young – she lost her husband at the age of 32, so she had to remarry eventually. At the end of the day, we knew we loved our mum and if it is what she wants, we all have to come together and support her. Things like this show that we love her no matter what. With that, I knew it would take a little bit of

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convincing but I just had to do what I needed to.

Plus, I am a man – I need to look out for myself. I told her about going into Big Brother a couple of years ago, she was like ‘God forbid!’ So, I didn’t talk about my interests anymore until I was at least 80 per cent sure that I was going in because you can never be totally sure. She cried when I told her but my sister who was in Canada with her helped to convince her. At the end, my mum

yielded and said she will send the Holy Spirit along with me into the house for protection.

My mother has never gone a week without speaking to me in my whole existence. So, my time on the show was the first time we have gone three months without talking, so she was a bit scared. At the end of the day, I guess I was super excited to see her when I came out of the stage, so it was all love after all.

VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

SPECIAL FEATURE How did you sell the idea to your mum urging her to support your Big Brother ambition?

I told her: ‘mum, I am who I am. You need to understand that I would never let you or myself down because I know how you have trained me – you have brought me up in the way of Christ. I know I have my shortcomings and I am not perfect.

Also, I told her that I am into entertainment life and business.

This platform will give me a bit of a boost to increase my reach. Right now, once you have a marketing strategy to push your products and you have a customer base, that’s where the money starts rolling in. These were key points in convincing her. I also added about getting our story out there – how my dad got assassinated and the challenges we faced afterwards.

With my sister helping, after I keyed all these positions into her, she agreed to let me join Big Brother.

You had to list out your goals to convince your mother. Do you feel that you achieved your goals while in the house?

I was super shocked with what Cross Nation did to me when I came out of the house. My mum also came and surprised me with a gift and a Bible. When we met, she told me that she was super proud of me. At the beginning of the show, she was trying to find a way to call Big Brother to evict me from the house because she was concerned about my well-being.

Listening to my mum say that she was honoured to be in my midst, broke me into so much tears. She told me that my heart is the most precious thing that God has ever given to me and that I should never lose it. I feel like I am a king and can take over the world. I can fly as high as I want to. It is about putting paper to pen and working with the right team to push my brand out there to the world.

To what degree did dyslexia affect your performance in the house?

There were times that I felt like communicating more but I couldn’t do that because I was scared that people might misunderstand me or laugh at me. So, I had to reserve certain things. Sometimes, I was like ‘screw it, let me be me. I will just do what I want to do.’ But it didn’t affect me completely because I made sure I knew who I was. Even if I had dyslexia, I knew that I had to be bold enough to be myself and say certain things that I needed to say. I didn’t know that a lot of people lived with this condition. It is high time we bring this into the light, especially in Nigeria, so that the young ones can understand that they can start treating it early. I know I am not dumb. I can hold conversations, debates and make you understand where I am coming from.

How do you cope with dyslexia? Perhaps, someone can learn from you.

If you are out there and need to learn from me, I suggest you surround yourself with good friends and family that would always encourage you and give you morale. Figure out what your strength is, then capitalize on it no matter what. Go for it hundred percent so that your strength overshadows your weakness.

Will you be starting a programme to support those who have dyslexia?

It is something I am going to push. This kind of thing needs a lot of finance. I am going to work on it and make sure that the foundation is solid. So when we start, Nigeria is going to be impressed. Africa is going to be impressed. I want something that when it is done, after I am dead and gone, it continues. We don’t know when the world is going to end. We are about to do something that will last forever so that when looking at Nigeria in a century, we will know that someone like Cross established a solid foundation for young kids to educate themselves.

Can you identify new skills that you have acquired since you joined Big Brother Naija?

Going into the house, I never knew I had patience. I didn’t know my threshold for patience was up there because I took so much misbehaviour from human beings. But I knew that going into that house, we have to have different characters from different backgrounds. So, handling that kind of experience determines your limit. I learned patience and acting. I didn’t know how to act but Big Brother taught me.

I definitely now think I can act but I still don’t think I am a hundred percent good at it. I will be putting a flashlight on that to see what it would amount to. Also, Big Brother taught me more about cleaning. Coming into the house, I pretty much had to bring back my cleaning skill. In addition, I learned that no matter where you are, God is always going to be with you. I

felt His spirit in me many times in that house. I thought going in, He might not be with me for a while. But honestly, He was with me throughout. No matter where you are in this world, no matter the situation, always call upon Him and He will be there for you.

What industry will you be taking on?

The entertainment industry in general. The movie, the music.

I have a song with Ajebutter 22 which I did earlier this year. It is not out yet so I think we would be working on that to make sure it comes out. I am pretty much going to start my show going from one country to another and demonstrating what Africa is all about. Educating people – not just the turning up act. I am going to be taking over the world as much as I can. So get ready to see me out there. By the grace of God.

What has Big Brother Naija taught you about nurturing relationships?

People think money is the most important thing in life. I will keep telling you, ‘no, it is not’. Yes! A lot of things, you need money to do. Life is the most important thing in life and once you have a good life and a good relationship with life, that is when you have the real jacket. Your network of people is what makes you a big person, not your net worth. I think when you have a strong relationship with some set of people in your life, that is when you become the real big deal.

My friends in the house, luckily for me I think they find a form of themselves in me and I also in them. I like every one of them.

We have been through our ups and downs. I know one or two have said evil or negative things about me. At the end of the day, we are all humans. We all forgive and we all love. We have each other’s back at the end of the day. I really care about my housemates and I wish every one of them the best.

Do you think you caught a lovebug with Angel?

Angel is a very special human being to me and love is a very deep word. I can love you but I don’t know if I can fall in love with you. Falling in love takes time. It takes years of being with someone. You don’t fall in love with someone in three months.

You can’t! Anybody that tells you that he is in love with you within this duration is a bloody liar! In three months, I can’t easily say that I am in love with Angel. I love her – that’s all I can tell you. As much as I love my housemates.

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VOL 1 NO.43 • DECEMBER 05 – DECEMBER 11, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

SÓRÓSOKE FASHION DOWNTOWN

REDEFINING FASHION With Frugirls

BY AYODELE JOHNSON

H

ow do you imagine thrift fashion at Frugirls?

Frugirls Founders, Onyeka and Ifeoma Nwobu

A renewed commitment to saving the planet from a ruinous existence has fashion enthusiasts growing an appetite that favours shopping sustainably. Daring millennials and Gen Zers are at the forefront of this disruption. Unlike conservative baby boomers, they are willing to embrace recycling as the means to keep up with emerging trends, and through a frugal lifestyle are cutting down spendings on clothes. Deliberate, genderspecific startup, Frugirls, founded by, Onyeka and Ifeoma Nwobu has opened up a channel so that a community of bold women and girls can feel comfortable in their skin without breaking the bank. But there is a much bigger picture showing how the fashion industry can help mitigate climate change.

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We have a standard procedure for sourcing the pieces, so we try as much as possible to source highquality clothes. They are not necessarily brand new but also not old. Sometimes, we draw up a mood board depending on the time of the year and we research what the audience would truly like. This is because we are community-based and we function a lot based on feedback. The second step is sourcing – we get the pieces and advertise them.

There are photoshoots from which content is created.

After that, we go through the process of dry cleaning, and we package and send out. That is the cycle in a nutshell.

Which type of clothing design is available on your platform?

People don’t care so much for brands, they just want good clothes. If they make a purchase and find out that it is for example, “Gucci”, then it is fine. But they won’t exactly buy something because it is Gucci. They will buy because of the style, the quality, the sizing – so many factors that usually come before the brand name itself. We do have some branded items but that’s not what we try to sell. What we sell is the assurance of quality, a lifestyle – teaching the audience that they can shop sustainably.

How do you connect a beautiful gown in your wardrobe with the women who want it in a resale? Is there a wide market for this?

This ties back to how we are able to maintain the ethos of sustainability. We have monthly drops and run an audio subscriptionbased model as well. Most of our followers know to be subscribed to our mailing list which is where we give updates. We have drops once every month and we are in partnership with a social commerce platform called Scradder. To connect with Frugirls, it is through email for new drops, Scrader to access pieces that have not been sold, and then Instagram.

With strong voices calling for an effort to mitigate climate change playing in the background, a business model set up to curb wastage and encourage recycling

is most likely to succeed. What’s the link between the Frugirls brand and sustainable fashion?

It is pretty straightforward to be honest. At Frugirls, we provide second-hand wears, and summarily, that is thrifting. Thrifting is a circular fashion practice of reselling pieces that have been worn or could be new, but the owner does not want that anymore. What that means in turn is when someone is not quite sure what to do with a dress, they resell it. That helps the environment by cutting down waste and someone is buying what has already been produced. What thrifting is doing is slowing down the production process.

Two years in, your resale brand has grown an image and a presence at the Lagos Fashion Week. What drove the speedy progression?

The first thing is community. For us, we have been able to build super fans who sort of believe in what it is we are building at Frugirls. What a super fan does is that they speak about your brand and wherever a niche has been mentioned. When we set out to build the brand, we set out to do it for girls like us and stuck to that. In our business decision, we think about how this affects these girls as well.

Have you noticed a cultural shift concerning thrift fashion? What’s driving the switching of behaviour?

On a larger scale, thrift is a lot more accepted because of the young generation we are dealing with now.

There used to be a stigma from the baby boomers who say: “you are wearing somebody’s clothes – you don’t know if the person is cursed”, and it has come a long way from that time. In Frugirls’ circle, people are proud to say they got something from us because of the way the brand is.

Do you see how technology can cover gaps limiting thrift fashion audiences from second-hand high-end clothing their body would enjoy?

Technology is bridging the gap for any business. If you are doing anything without tech, you are most likely working hard and not smart. The circular fashion industry is in its formative years. Soon, there will be integration which is already happening for us. We don’t have our independent tech platform yet, but to make things easier, we leverage opportunities. Whether you are a circular fashion initiative or not, in the fashion industry, you have to adopt more unique tech approaches to your business.

Can you define the social behaviour of the audience coming to you?

It is pretty obvious. First of all, they are girls and young women. They are interested in trendy stuff and they are social media savvy.

What do you imagine a green future would look like from a fashion prism?

Where we can cut down on production because that seems to be the major problem. If we can do that, we can cut down on carbon emissions and landfills.

A green future would just mean less production in fashion.

Frugirls was involved in the SwapShop experience that was created at the Lagos Fashion Week in October. What is the significance of this from an audience perspective?

It was a sensitisation programme. Another approach to fashion that is more sustainable.

Why is Frugirls passionately dedicated to girls?

Brands are built out of people. Frugirls is literally us. It is the reason we say that it is for girls like us. It is what we are passionate about and our God-aligned purpose.

We come from a family where we were born into thrifting and had a frugal mother. Her fashion decisions for us impacted our lives financially, and this is why we live sustainably. This drove us to build the brand. It is about mirroring ourselves and being able to relate to the needs of the Nigerian girl. That is the inspiration behind the female-driven platform.