THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 20TH AUGUST 2023

BANKE KUKU.

LISA FOLAWIYO.

Society

Over the years, the Nigerian fashion industry has witnessed remarkable growth, with numerous brands emerging that proudly produce their goods within the country’s borders. These brands have gained global recognition for their creativity, craftsmanship, and ability to infuse traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles.

#madeinnigeria

Am the only one who has noticed that lately, Nigerians seem to have an undeniable pride in wearing pieces from our indigenous fashion brands? This shift in mindset has not only redefined our sense of style but has also ignited a powerful spark of creativity among our talented designers. Gone are the days when international fashion labels dominated our wardrobes. Today, we proudly showcase the vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and exquisite craftsmanship of our local brands. From the elegant traditional aso-ebi attires to the trendy contemporary designs, our designers are stealing the spotlight on local and global runways, and am so here for it. This newfound appreciation for Nigerian fashion is not only a matter of aesthetics but also an investment in our nation’s economy. By choosing to wear and support local brands, we contribute to the growth of our fashion industry and the livelihoods of countless artisans, tailors, weavers, and craftsmen. We become the driving force behind a thriving ecosystem that fosters creativity, innovation, and employment opportunities.

Imagine if we all embraced the hashtag #MadeInNigeria as more than just a passing trend but as a way of life. Together, we can create a fashion revolution that ripples across all sectors of our economy. By patronising our locally made brands, we uplift our fashion industry and empower other sectors, such as textile production, manufacturing, and retail.

To my darling designers, I want to express my admiration for your unwavering commitment to excellence. Your passion for fashion has fueled a wave of creativity that resonates with the very essence of our Nigerian heritage. However, let us remember that creativity is a constant evolution. Please take this as your weekly reminder to continue pushing the boundaries, experimenting with new techniques, and weaving our culture into contemporary designs that captivate the world.

In the spirit of unity and progress, would also like to congratulate our newly appointed ministers who have recently received their portfolios. I acknowledge that our nation’s challenges are immense, and the task ahead is demanding. As custodians of our collective aspirations, you have no choice but to hit the ground running. We implore you to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep sense of responsibility.

To my fellow Nigerians, please be patient and supportive of our ministers as they embark on this crucial journey. Building a nation is not a solitary task but a collective effort that requires unity, resilience, and unwavering determination. Let us wish them well, for their success is intertwined with the success of our beloved country. Together, we can overcome any obstacles that lie ahead and restore our nation to the prosperous and harmonious state we all envision. On this note, I wish you all a beautiful week filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful connections. May we continue to rise together.

Love,Konye

Originals

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Celebrating an Era of Quintessential Leadership

Recently Nigerian Breweries Plc hosted dignitaries, including top government functionaries, captains of industries, as well as family and friends, to an elegant send-forth cocktail/dinner in honour of an industry titan, a distinguished boardroom guru, Chief Kola Jamodu (CFR), the former chairman of the company who retired recently. Chief Kola Jamodu served on the company board for 17 years, with 15 years as board chairman. Dignitaries in attendance include the Lagos State Governor represented by His Deputy, Dr.Hamzat Kadiri and his Edo State counterpart, Godwin Obaseki, the former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; former Inspector General of Police, Musiliu Smith; former CBN Governor, Joseph Sanusi, former Ministers, Diplomats among others.

It was a night of outpouring of accolades as dignitaries showered encomiums on Jamodu for his resilience, exemplary leadership and immense contributions to the growth and success of the company.

JOHN MOMOH; OLAIDE & TAIWO OYEDELE

NENADI USMAN; FELIX OHIWEREI AND SIEP HIEMSTRA

YELIZ YEDIKARDESTAR

IFEOMA RICKETTS

FRANCIS MESHIOYE

BEN WESSELS BOER & FEDERICO AGRESSI

MR FAMUYIBO SAMUEL MPAMAUGO

MIKE & DAN AZUMI MOHAMMED IBRAHIM

OF EDO

& MRS OMO-LAMAI

IGHODALO

UABOI AGBEBAKU; GUEST, NEVITT CONSULTING, VICTOR FAMUYIBO

GBENGA

STANDARD CHARTED BANK CELRBRATE LAMIN MANJANG

It was an evening of honour and accolade when the Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria (SCBN) team held a farewell dinner party for their former CEO and current Vice Chairman, Africa, Lamin Manjang. The event which held at the prestigious Kaly restaurant in Victoria Island was well attended by over 120 corporate and affluent banking clients, members of the Bank’s Board and Management team who all turned out to celebrate with Lamin. The dinner was a platform where many accomplishments of Lamin as the CEO of the Bank was shared and was also an opportunity for the Lamin to appreciate the staff of the bank for their relentless commitment of making the institution a trusted financial house for its customers.

A Night of Elegance into the Spirit of Japan!

The enchanting night of elegance and cultural immersion, “Grand Yozakura,” hosted jointly by Glenfiddich and ZAKAA, proved to be an unforgettable affair, leaving guests in awe of the journey into Japan’s rich heritage. Recently, esteemed guests were treated to an exquisite experience at Zakaa’s Luxury Hub in Abuja, where the venue was transformed into a breathtaking representation of Japan’s captivating Yozakura cherry blossoms. The event proved to be a celebration of luxury, sophistication, and artistic expression as attendees indulged in an array of cultural delights. Highlights of the event included the activation of the phenomenal Grand Seiko watch brand in Nigeria, the launch of the latest GMT Africa magazine, and the entertainment showcasing the lifestyle of the partnering brands, which left the audience captivated by mesmerizing activities.

IK ORAGWU, AINA DELE-ADEGBOLA, MR & MRS. MANJANG, BANJO OGUNROSOYE AND JUMOKE ADEKEYE

ANGER

ANGER AYOTUNDE COKER, OLUKOREDE ADENOWO, MS. BISI ADEYEMI, PRINCE DAPO ADELEGAN AND MR. BIMBO OLASHORE

POPOOLA

ODIA AIRE DAYO OMOLOKUN AND DAYO ADERUGBO JOKE ADU

OLUWABUNMI OMOTOSO MRS. N OKEKE

MR AND MRS DEREMI AJIDAHUN AISHA ACHIMUGU AND OGWA IWEZE

ADA CHARLES OKPALEKE

ALI BABA, MR AND MRS IHONVBERE AND DEREMI AJIDAHUN SENATOR KINGIGBE, ABIODUN AJIDAHUN AND JULIUS RONE

DJ TTB GEORGE OKORO IBUKUN AJIDAHUN MR AND DR MRS TITILOYE SEZNO BENSON

DO’S AND DON’TS FOR CURVY GIRLS THE ULTIMATE

Fashion is a personal statement, a reflection of individuality, and a showcase of style, regardless of body type. For curvy girls who want to flaunt their voluptuous silhouettes with confidence and flair, here’s the ultimate guide to do’s and don’ts in fashion.

DINE WITH A VIEW AT THESE FIVE RESTAURANTS

With the right aesthetics, certain places on Lagos Island can be magical. However, there is no better-looking aesthetic than the one mother nature provides herself- The Ocean. Whether you are going for romance or just personal serenity, here are five restaurants with ocean views that can give you just that.

By Bukola Amoboye

Do: Don’t:

1. Embrace Body-Positive Brands. Seek brands that design with curvy figures in mind. Companies that prioritise inclusivity often offer better fitting and more stylish options.

2. Invest in a Quality Bra. The foundation of any outfit is what lies beneath. A well-fitting bra can enhance your silhouette, boost your confidence, and make any outfit look ten times better.

3. Play with Proportions. High-waisted pants, A-line skirts, and belted outfits can emphasise your waistline and accentuate an hourglass figure.

4. Explore Different Necklines. V-necks, scoop necks, off-shoulder tops - the options are endless. Find what accentuates your décolletage and makes you feel fabulous.

5. Rock Those Heels (If You Want). Heels can elongate the legs and add a touch of sophistication. But remember, flats, sandals, and sneakers can be just as stylish, so go with what makes you comfortable.

1. Shy Away from Colours and Patterns. Contrary to popular belief, curvy girls can absolutely rock bright hues and bold patterns. The key is balance. If you›re wearing a patterned top, consider pairing it with a solid bottom or vice versa.

2. Assume Oversized Clothes are the Answer. While it›s tempting to hide behind baggy clothes, they often do a disservice by masking your shape. Instead, opt for clothes that fit just right, highlighting your best features.

3. Fear Fitted Clothes. Bodycon dresses and fitted tops can look absolutely stunning on curvy bodies. Remember, confidence is your best accessory.

4. Overdo Accessories. While accessories can elevate an outfit, striking a balance is essential. For instance, if you›re wearing a statement necklace, consider going minimal on the earrings.

5. Let Trends Dictate Your Style. While it›s fun to experiment, always prioritise what makes you feel most confident and comfortable. Your style is uniquely yours.

Ocean Basket

Prepare to be swept away by the culinary wonders of Ocean Basket, renowned for its mouthwatering seafood creations. The VI outpost not only serves up delectable dishes but also does so against the backdrop of the ocean’s grandeur. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or colleagues, this ocean-view gem provides the perfect setting for shared moments and unforgettable conversations.

KingFisher Africa

Indulge in a symphony of flavours at KingFisher Africa, nestled in the heart of Lekki. This seafood haven boasts an indoor sanctuary and an al fresco oasis where you’ll savour your meal while perched above the ocean. You’re seated just above the ocean, enjoying your meal while breathing in the cool ocean breeze and enjoying the view. The view is even more perfect at night. It’s a great spot for a romantic date or a casual one.

Circa

Step into an atmosphere of tranquillity and charm at Circa Non-Pareil. This breathtaking Lekki gem unfolds as a two-story waterfront haven with an inviting outdoor bar. The serene ambience sets the stage for memorable moments for a romantic outing or a lively gathering with friends. Here, the ocean isn’t just a view; it’s an integral part of the experience. Circa Non Pareil

Sailor’s Lounge

A culinary voyage awaits at Sailor’s Lounge, where the ocean’s embrace is as captivating as the menu. With seating that seemingly hovers above the waves, daytime dining feels like a dreamy escape. However, as the night falls, the magic truly comes alive. The shimmering lights dance on the water’s surface, crafting an atmosphere that’s nothing short of ethereal.

Non Pareil

CIRCA NON PAREIL

BURGER KING

KANAYO EBI AKINSOLA

MADE IN NIGERIA Supporting Local Talent

Over the years, the Nigerian fashion industry has witnessed remarkable growth, with numerous brands emerging that proudly produce their goods within the country’s borders. These brands have gained global recognition for their creativity, craftsmanship, and ability to infuse traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles. Before this, international luxury brands had traditionally dominated the market, but these local designers and brands have made significant strides in establishing themselves as formidable competitors. Brands such as Kenneth Ize and Ninie, known for their exquisite use of traditional Nigerian handwoven Aso-Oke fabrics, have garnered the global fashion world’s rapt attention with their ability to combine local craftsmanship with modern designs. Similarly, the likes of Lanre Da Silva Ajayi and Odio Mimonet have become synonymous with elegance, showcasing Nigeria’s diverse fashion landscape.

One of the many significant forces propelling this is the emergence of the “Made in Nigeria movement. This movement seeks to promote and support Nigerian-owned fashion brands and designers, encouraging consumers to prioritise locally-made products. By embracing this movement, consumers not only contribute to the economic development of the country but also celebrate the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Nigeria.

The “Made in Nigeria” movement has gained momentum, encouraging Nigerians to embrace and support locally-made products. In light of the country’s current economic downturn, buying Nigerian has become even more important than ever, as it plays a vital role in revitalising the economy and empowering local manufacturers.

Regardless of the tremendous success recorded by the movement, the fashion and lifestyle industry still has a long way to go, as local manufacturers still face numerous challenges. The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as reliable power supply and efficient transportation networks, which hampers local manufacturers’ productivity and competitiveness, are just a few of them. Other major issues include limited

access to finance and high-interest rates, which makes it difficult for them to invest in modern machinery, technology, and skilled labour. Additionally, the influx of cheap imported goods poses a significant threat to local manufacturers as they struggle to compete on price. These challenges often lead to higher production costs, making it difficult for local brands to offer competitive prices. However, despite these obstacles, local brands have achieved significant wins. One of the most notable wins is the growing appreciation for locallymade products. There’s now a certain pride that comes with wearing a local fashion brand. Nigerian consumers have become more conscious of supporting homegrown industries, recognising the quality and craftsmanship that come with locally produced goods. This shift in consumer mindset has created a market for locally-made fast fashion brands such as Ziva Lagos and Zephans & Co, allowing them to thrive and expand their reach. Their efforts have also contributed towards creating immense opportunities for economic growth by promoting job creation, reducing dependence on imported brands, and boosting export potential. Furthermore, it has provided young entrepreneurs and designers with a platform to showcase their talents

and contribute to the country’s creative industry.

While the Nigerian fashion industry has made significant strides, there is still a need for increased government support. The government should prioritise policies that foster an enabling environment for local manufacturers. This includes improving infrastructure, providing access to affordable financing, and implementing favourable trade policies. By doing so, the government can stimulate further growth in the sector and harness its potential to contribute to the overall development of the Nigerian economy.

‘Made in Nigeria’ in the context of fashion and lifestyle is more than just a label; it’s a movement. It represents the aspirations of a nation seeking to carve out its identity in a globalised world. While challenges persist, the dynamism, resilience, and creativity that permeate Nigeria’s fashion scene ensure its continued ascent on the world stage. For us, the consumers supporting this industry is not just about wearing a piece of clothing or another patriotic act. It is an investment in the country’s economic future. By purchasing locally made fashion and lifestyle products, we play an active role in building a robust and selfsustaining Nigerian economy.

EMMY KASBIT.

ORANGE CULTURE.

THE OZINNA ANUMUDU X PRIVATE LABEL COLLECTION

WINSTON-LEATHER-HANDBAGS

FC-DANFO-CUFFLINKS FEMI HANDBAGS

BANKE KUKU.

ETHNIK

LISA FOLAWIYO.

MAI ATAFO

There’s now a certain pride that comes with wearing a local fashion brand. Nigerian consumers have become more conscious of supporting homegrown industries, recognising the quality and craftsmanship that come with locally produced goods

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SOLO TRIP

If you are one of those who enjoy travelling at this time of the year to enjoy the summer vacation abroad, you still have a few weeks left. Now, if you’re sceptical about going, probably because you’re alone, then this article is for you. You don’t always have to travel with friends or a romantic partner. You can thoroughly enjoy your vacation, albeit solo, and here’s how.

By Bukola Amoboye

Plan

Embarking on any expedition demands a plan, and a solo vacation is no exception. Outline your route, accommodations, and activities. Don’t forget to have a trusted guide by your side, whether in person or through your smartphone, as you uncover hidden gems.

Avoid Over Planning

While meticulous planning is your compass, don’t fall into the over-planning abyss. Leave room for spontaneity to weave its magic. Create pockets of time where you can simply absorb the surroundings without a rigid agenda.

Self-Care

Remember, this adventure is a celebration of you. Infuse your journey with moments of self-indulgence. Surrender to spa therapies, embrace the tranquility of meditation, or stretch your body and mind with revitalizing yoga.

Learn Something New

Unveil a fresh layer of your being by diving into something novel. It could be pottery, a local cooking class, or any pursuit the locals delight in. Your voyage is your canvas; paint it with vibrant experiences.

Converse with Strangers

You’re bound to cross paths with fellow adventurers. Don’t shy away from initiating conversations; their tales might inspire new adventures for you. Who knows what gems you’ll uncover?

Take Part in Local Events

Seek out local events that let you in on the culture. Whether it’s a bustling street festival, a soul-stirring concert, or a captivating theatre performance, make your presence felt.

Explore the City

Lace up your walking shoes or hop onto a bike – it’s time to feel the city’s heartbeat. Saunter through its alleys, traverse its parks and blend into the rhythm of daily life. Every street corner holds a story; become a part of it.

Explore the Food

Unleash your inner foodie and let your taste buds roam. Tickle your palate with local flavours, from street-side delicacies to regional classics. This is a chance to savour the essence of the destination, one bite at a time.

We could go on and on, as there are tons of ways to enjoy your solo trip; whatever you decide, just make sure you live it out and have fun!

ZIVA LAGOS

ZASHADU HANDBAG

ZASHADU

ODIO MIMONET

LANRE DA SILVA AJAYI RAYA JEWELLERY

IDIA AISIEN

TIPS TO MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT AND EFFECTIVE FITNESS ROUTINE

By Oroma Jumbo

Sticking to a regular fitness regimen can be incredibly difficult, especially when we have busy schedules. It demands great commitment and self-control, making it a challenging task. If you’ve attempted to visit a gym or engage in home workouts regularly but found yourself falling off track, don’t worry. You’re not alone.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking to spice up your routine or someone just starting their fitness journey, we have a few tips and tricks to help you priorities your health and well-being and achieve the desired results. Read on and prepare to embark on a journey that will transform you!

CREATE A WORKOUT SCHEDULE

Creating a workout schedule is an effective way to maintain consistency. Plan your workouts ahead to ensure exercise becomes a regular part of your daily or weekly schedule. Identify the most convenient time of day to exercise and block it off in your calendar as a dedicated workout slot. Treating this time as an important appointment increases the likelihood of making exercise a habit.

START EASY

The well-known phrase, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” is something we’ve all heard before. Start with short, intense workouts that last only 10 minutes. If you’re adding weights to your routine, select weights that allow you to maintain proper form throughout each repetition. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts. Mix and Match Exercises

Doing the same workout every day can lead to plateaus and diminish motivation. Try a mix of strength training, contact sports (boxing or martial arts), cardio (HIIT, dancing, swimming, cycling, or hiking), and flexibility exercises to keep things interesting. Experiment with classes or workout videos to find what you enjoy most.

provide the necessary motivation. Make workouts enjoyable by listening to energising music, watching your favourite TV show, or exercising with a friend.

DON’T OVERDO IT

Rest and recovery are vital for muscle repair and growth after exercise. Without enough rest, your body won’t fully recover, leading to decreased performance and higher injury risk. Include rest days in your workout schedule and focus on activities like low-intensity walks, stretching, foam rolling, or mindfulness.

INCORPORATE HEALTHY EATING HABITS

Fuel your body with the proper nutrients to perform well and recover properly. Consume a balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Avoid processed

foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol. Prioritise meal planning and preparation to have nutritious options readily available.

TRACK PROGRESS AND CELEBRATE MILESTONES

Keep a fitness journal or use a mobile app to record workouts, track weight, and measure body composition. Celebrate milestones

and assistance. Join a fitness community, like a gym, online group, or social media fitness community. If you have the financial means, invest in a personal trainer for one-on-one sessions or as part of a group with friends. Interact with others, share your progress, and seek guidance. A supportive community helps you stay committed, particularly during

To progress in your fitness journey, regularly evaluate and adjust your what was once challenging may become more accessible. Challenge improvements and avoid plateaus.

Effortless Elegance; that certain je ne sais quoi that transcends trends, a style that whispers rather than shouts, and a presence that captures attention without demanding it. In pursuing it, remember that it’s not about striving for perfection but embracing your own version of it. You can start with these tips.

MOST COMMON INTERIOR DECORATING MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE

By Bukola Amoboye

Monstrous Furniture

Know Thyself

Elegance begins with knowing who you are and embracing it. Your style should reflect your personality, so take the time to understand what resonates with you. Whether you›re drawn to vintage classics, modern minimalism, or a fusion of both, stay true to your essence. Confidence is the most elegant accessory you can wear, and it starts with embracing your uniqueness.

Quality Over Quantity

Invest in pieces that stand the test of time. When building your wardrobe, focus on quality over quantity. A few well-fitted, high-quality items will always outshine a closet bursting with fleeting trends. Think of your wardrobe as a curated collection of pieces that can effortlessly mix and match to create many looks.

The Power of Simplicity

Simplicity is the backbone of

Elegance. Clean lines, neutral tones, and understated details form the core of effortless style. A welltailored white shirt, a perfectly fitting pair of jeans, or a little black dress can be the canvas for various outfits, adapting effortlessly to any occasion.

Mindful Accessories

Accessories are the punctuation marks of your outfit – they add emphasis and character. Opt for a few key pieces that speak volumes. A classic leather handbag, a timeless watch, or a delicate necklace can elevate your ensemble without overpowering it. Remember, less is more.

Fit Is Everything

No matter how luxurious or stylish a piece may be, it won’t exude

Elegance if it doesn’t fit properly. Tailoring is your secret weapon – ensure your clothes drape perfectly on your frame. A well-fitted garment can transform an ordinary outfit into a masterpiece.

The Beauty of Minimal Makeup

Effortless Elegance extends beyond clothing. Embrace a natural makeup look that enhances your features rather than masks them. Subtle, dewy skin, softly defined eyes, and a hint of colour on the lips can create a sophisticated and radiant appearance.

Confidence as Your Crown

Walk with your head held high and your shoulders back. Elegance is as much about how you carry yourself

as it is about what you wear. Your self-assured demeanour will radiate Elegance, drawing admiration wherever you go.

Timeless Hairstyles

Hairstyles that withstand the test of time complement your overall look. Whether it’s a classic chignon, tousled waves, or a sleek bob, opt for a style that aligns with your personal taste and enhances your features.

Cultivate Inner Elegance

Effortless Elegance transcends outward appearances. Cultivate inner Elegance by nurturing kindness, poise, and grace. True Elegance is not just about how you look but how you make others feel in your presence.

Embrace Evolution

While timeless Elegance remains constant, your style can evolve over time. Embrace change and adapt your wardrobe to suit the chapters of your life. Elegance isn’t stagnant; it’s a dynamic journey of selfexpression.

You don’t require a degree in interior design to create a cosy and visually appealing home. Nonetheless, you may unintentionally be stumbling into a few common design faux pas. To help refine your home styling strategy and promote more mindful design choices, let’s delve into potential decor errors that you could be unknowingly committing.

It seems there’s an unspoken rule in most traditional homes that a gargantuan sofa set must dominate the living room. Now, it’s time to break free from that rule. A space crammed full of oversized furniture can feel claustrophobic and unwelcoming. Instead, select furniture of an appropriate size for your room and consider reducing the number of pieces. Try swapping standing shelves for wall-mounted ones to open up your floor space.

design choices, and creating an ambience. Be strategic about your lighting. Use different types of lights - wall, floor, bedside, and desk lamps- to serve different purposes and create layered lighting in your rooms.

Furniture Glued to the Walls

If all your furniture is hugging the walls, it’s time for an intervention. Creating a furniture island in the middle of the room can make the space more intimate and inviting. Furniture away from the walls creates more interesting and dynamic layouts.

The Overflow of Extras

Overcrowding your space with too many pieces of art, family photos, and flower vases can create a sense of chaos rather than comfort. Embrace minimalism and remember that every piece in your home should serve a purpose or bring joy.

The Matching Syndrome

We’ve evolved past the era when furniture, curtains, and walls must all be identical twins. It’s time to experiment with contrasting colours and patterns. A mix-and-match approach adds a vibrant touch to your living space, making it feel personal and thoughtfully curated.

The Power of Emptiness

Embrace the beauty of negative space. An empty corner isn’t a design flaw; it’s an opportunity. You don’t need to fill every inch of your home with stuff. Sometimes, less is more, and empty spaces can give your home a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.

Lacklustre Lighting

Lighting is not just about illuminating your space. It’s about setting the mood, highlighting your

Remember, creating a well-decorated home is all about balance. It’s about understanding your space and creating an environment that reflects your personality while being functional and comfortable.

‘Jagun Jagun’ (Warrior) is the current talk of the movie town, and it is easy to see why! It is a war epic that will keep you on the edge of your seats for the most part and leave you feeling incredibly satisfied.

Seasoned Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo clearly spared no expense in the production of this movie, leaving its near-perfect execution to directors Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani. It premiered on Netflix on the 10th of August and quickly became the #1 trending movie in Nigeria and amongst the top 5 in the UK.

Spoiler Free Plot Summary…

The plot follows the story of a young aspiring warrior, Gbotija (Lateef Adedimeji), who joins a school of warriors-intraining owned by the most revered warrior in the land, Ogundiji (Femi Adebayo). In the course of the training, his bravery and skills as a young warrior singles him out amongst the others. However, this inadvertently spirals into a rivalry with Ogundiji, who, driven by insecurity and pride, sets out to kill him by setting a series of trap tests in hopes that he would die one way or the other.

What’s Not to Love...

Shall we start with the production design?

Clearly, all stops were pulled for this! The design

is rich in visuals, culture, and research. Location?

Well scouted, accurate, and simply breathtaking. Cinematography? Off the charts and obviously intentional.

We can hardly fault the storytelling and execution. It was simply well-written and well-told; you could tell a lot of work, editing, and research went into it. If it were a written play, we would love it all the same!

The sound design/ effects. VFX, SFX, costumes, music, etc., are some of the best we’ve seen in any Nollywood movie. They were all beautifully executed and contributed greatly to making the movie worthwhile.

Hats off to Niyi Akinmolayan’s Ant Hill studios for their very

impressive work with the VFX. We’ve also seen major improvements in stunt and fight choreography in Nollywood recently, and ‘Jagun Jagun’ took it up a notch, somewhat giving everyone else a run for their money.

The movie also featured outstanding performances from its star-studded cast, with Lateef Adedimeji and Femi Adebayo leading the charge and completely blowing us away.

Other actors worthy of mention include Bukunmi Oluwashina, Fathia Balogun, Adebayo Salami, Bimbo Ademoye, Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, Debo Adedayo (Mr Macaroni), and lots more.

‘Jagun Jagun’s’ richness in language, culture, and tradition is one of the many things that made us fall in

love with the movie even more.

All these things combined ultimately succeeded in transporting viewers into the movie’s fictional world, immersing you for its full 2 hours and 14 minutes and leaving you in awe of its storytelling masterpiece.

On the Other Hand...

This was nearly avoided, but we couldn’t help but notice a few things concerning the editing. It wasn’t as clean as we would have preferred for a movie with this much buzz.

The transition between some of the scenes was relatively poor and looked a bit amateurish, so we were simply unable to ignore it.

Also, while Anthill’s VFX in this movie is largely impressive, it’s not quite there yet. Some of the

effects were too obviously computerised. It would have been better if they didn’t show them at all. However, we’re still going to duff our hats for them for their creativity.

We Say...

For even the most seasoned of filmmakers, a war epic is not the easiest to pull off, much less an indigenous one like ‘Jagun Jagun.’ Femi Adebayo set the bar high with this one, and we are excited to see what more the veteran has in store. It may still be a bit early in the year to tell, but we are sure that ‘Jagun Jagun’ will be a strong contender for best movie, best actor, directing, and lots more.

The year isn’t over, but we’re here for the competition. Bring it on!

‘JAGUN JAGUN’: A MOVIE, AN EXPERIENCE, AND FEMI ADEBAYO’S BEST YET!”

FEMI ADEBAYO AS ‘’OGUNDIJI’’

LATEEF-ADEDIMEJI AS ‘’GBOTIJA’’