Issuu

...NOTSunday, IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN NOT IN STYLE January 11, 2026 Vol. YOU’RE 22, No. 11198 TR

UT H

& RE A SO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 2026

DEMAS NWOKO

@90 A LIFE !

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

CONTENT

COVER NOTE

EDITOR’S LETTER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Lifestyle & Fashion

8 10 things to leave behind in 2025 to make 2026

The Prestige Experience, A Y’ellotide Moment

The Dating Behaviours We’re Officially Done With in 2026

Fashion for the Different Versions of You

Fashioned by Vision: Victory Njoku Is Building a Lifestyle Empire

S yle

Fashioned by Vision: Victory Njoku Is Building a Lifestyle Empire

Interior Décor Trends for 2026: T he Shifts Set to Define Our Homes

Pre-Party Skincare that Actually Works

2026 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid for Beautiful Skin

@thisdaystyle |

EXECUTIVE EDITOR KONYE NWABOGOR 08111847087

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE EDITOR OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI 08111847086

CONTRIBUTORS AYO LAWAL ALIYAH OLOWOLAYEMO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

January Again

he noise of December has barely settled, yet the year is already demanding clarity, speed, and direction. One moment, we were deep in Detty December—late nights blurring into early mornings, celebration stacked on celebration—and the next, we’re expected to slip seamlessly into hustle mode, as though rest, joy, and indulgence were not part of the process at all. The switch feels abrupt. Almost unfair. So let’s start here: how are you doing, really? Not how your planner looks or how ambitious your to-do list sounds—but how you feel making this transition from ease to urgency in the space of a few days. For many people, January is not a sprint; it’s a slow re-entry. The body is present, but the mind is still recalibrating. And that quiet in-between space deserves more grace than we give it. Every new year arrives with a familiar pressure to declare bold resolutions and hit the ground running. We are encouraged to be disciplined, transformed, and wildly productive from day one. But the truth is, momentum doesn’t come from panic. It comes from intention. From understanding what matters, what can wait, and what no longer deserves room in your life. This is why intention feels like the more intelligent approach to 2026. Not doing everything at once, but doing the right things deliberately. Not reacting to the year, but choosing how you enter it. There is power in moving with awareness instead of urgency, in building habits that can actually be sustained beyond January. Perhaps this is also the moment to think less about what you want to add and more about what you need to release. Reading pieces like our feature “10 Things to Leave in 2025 to Make 2026 Great” isn’t just about self-help—it’s about discernment. About recognising patterns, behaviours, and expectations that quietly drain us, and deciding—intentionally— not to carry them forward. As the year unfolds, I hope you allow yourself the softness of a measured start. Progress does not require exhaustion. Growth does not demand haste. You are not behind because you’re still finding your rhythm—you’re simply arriving with awareness. So I’ll ask again, gently: how are you doing? How does this new year feel as you step into it—not rushed, not pressured, just present? There is still time. And there is room to begin well.

10 THINGS TO LEAVE BEHIND IN 2025 Every new year comes with noise. New goals. New trends. New pressure to become someone else overnight. But sometimes, growth is not about what we add. It is about what we finally let go of.As Nigerians, we have carried a lot. Some of it helped us survive. Some of it no longer serves us. Quietly, without big announcements, many people are choosing differently. These are some of the things we are leaving behind.

1. Performing a soft life we cannot afford

We are tired of pretending. Borrowed luxury, forced enjoyment, pressure to look okay when we are not. A good life is not about looking rich online. It is about peace, stability, and rest. Many people are choosing honesty over impression.

2. Suffering as a badge of honour

Struggle is not proof of character. Endurance is not the same as purpose. We are learning that rest is not laziness and asking for help is not weakness. Hardship should not be romanticised. 3. Blind loyalty to systems that do not care Jobs, institutions, relationships,

even traditions. Many Nigerians are learning to question instead of endure quietly. Respect is important, but it should not cost your dignity or well-being.

4. The idea that louder means better

Noise is no longer impressive. Calm, consistency, and substance are starting to matter more. You do not have to shout to be valuable. You do not have to explain yourself to everyone.

5. Comparing our lives to edited screens

We are slowly realising that social media is not real life. People are choosing to live at their own pace. Marriage timelines, success timelines, body timelines. There is relief in minding your own journey.

6. Shaming people for choosing differently

Not everyone wants the same life. Some want marriage early. Some want none at all. Some want to stay. Some want to leave. We are learning to allow people live without constant judgment.

7. Ignoring mental and emotional health

“Be strong” is no longer enough. Nigerians are talking more openly about stress, burnout, grief, and anxiety. Healing is becoming as important as hustling.

8. Depending only on hope without planning

matters too. More people are learning skills, saving money, and thinking long-term. Prayer and preparation are learning to walk together.

9. Treating culture as something outdated

We are realising that tradition does not mean backward. Language, craft, values, and community still matter. What we are leaving behind is imitation, not identity.

10. Living only to please others

This might be the hardest one. Saying no. Choosing yourself. Disappointing people so you can live honestly. Many Nigerians are tired of shrinking to fit expectations.

Faith is important, but planning

Love,

@thisdaystyleon | www.thisdaystyle.ng

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

THE PRESTIGE EXPERIENCE, A Y’ELLOTIDE MOMENT

THE DATING BEHAVIOURS WE’RE OFFICIALLY DONE WITH IN 2026

he MTN Prestige Experience formed part of Y’ellotide, the brand’s ETIM AMANA, JIM OVIA, AND KARL TORIOLA ongoing campaign to support and celebrate Nigerians through thoughtfully curated moments. Designed as an expression of appreciation, the evening blended fine dining, music, and fashion to create a warm and refined atmosphere of connection and reflection. It represented one of the ways MTN continues to engage meaningfully across different segments, guided by context, care, and relevance. ATUNYOTA ‘ALI BABA’ AKPOBOME Guests enjoyed Michelin-inspired cuisine curated by Chef Stone, fashion showcases highlighting African heritage, and captivating performances by acclaimed singer Asa. The event was hosted by Ebuka Obi Uchendu and Michelle Dede, with comedic moments from Alibaba adding lightness to the evening.

PAUL ONWUANIBE

A.B MAHMOUD

OLU OKEOWO

NIMI AKINKUGBE

IFEOMA MOKWUGO OKOYE

STELLA OKOLI

NDALI NDUKWE AND DR ERNEST NDUKWE

Dating didn’t suddenly become complicated — we just stopped pretending it wasn’t. Somewhere between unread messages, half-promises, and relationships that existed only in theory, many people quietly reached their limit. Not in an angry, dramatic way. More like a calm, tired clarity. The kind that comes when you’ve explained yourself one too many times or realised you’re always the one doing the emotional heavy lifting. 2026 isn’t about being harsh or closed off. It’s about being honest — with ourselves first. About recognising patterns early and refusing to romanticise confusion, inconsistency, or emotional shortcuts anymore. If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that liking someone is not the same thing as being treated well. Here are the dating behaviours many of us are simply no longer entertaining — no speeches, no ultimatums, just quiet Spending months emotionally exits. By Funke Babs-Kufeji

IBRAHIM SULEIMAN AND LINDA EJIOFOR-SULEIMAN

IRETIOLA DOYLE AND SHOYINKA SHODUNKE

ADAORA UMEOJI

ASA AND MICHELLE DEDE

L-R; FIDELIS ANOSIKE, RITA DOMINIC-ANOSIKE, AND ONYINYE IKENNA-EMEKA

IBE ETEA AND UTO UKPANAH

JOSEPHINE SAROUK, OBY UGBOMA , AND AMAKA EZIKE

Inconsistent Communication That Keeps You Guessing

We’re done decoding silence. Someone disappearing for days and reappearing with a casual “hey stranger” is no longer intriguing — it’s exhausting. So is the hot-and-cold routine that keeps you wondering where you stand. Interest doesn’t require mystery or mind games. It shows up, checks in, and follows through without needing to be chased. In 2026, consistency is attractive. Not constant texting or forced updates, just a steady presence that doesn’t leave you anxious or second-guessing yourself. If communication only works when it’s convenient for one person, that inconsistency is already the message.

Undefined Connections That Never Seem to Progress YAHAYA IBRAHIM, AND MRS AMINA YAHAYA

L-R; PROFESSOR IFEOMA JOY OKOYE, UGONWA NWOYE, ODUNAYO SANAYA, DR. MOSUN BELO-OLUSOGA, AND DR. IJE JIDENMA

Situationships had their moment. That moment has passed.

We’re not bending ourselves into invested without clarity, direction, understanding positions while or intention is no longer something our own needs remain unmet. we’re tolerating politely. We’re If someone cannot show up asking questions earlier, listening emotionally, we’re choosing not to carefully to answers, and paying exhaust ourselves trying to make it attention to what isn’t being said. work alone. Ambiguity is no longer romantic when it keeps one person Subtle Disrespect That’s suspended while the other enjoys Easy to Excuse the comfort. Not all disrespect announces Time is not refundable. Neither itself. is emotional energy. If someone Sometimes it shows up as doesn’t know what they want — dismissive comments, sarcastic or knows but avoids saying it — jokes that cut too close, we’re no longer waiting around hoping they’ll figure it out with us. boundaries crossed “accidentally,” or consistently being made to feel like you’re asking for too much. Emotional Unavailability These moments are often brushed Explained Away as Being aside because they don’t seem serious enough on their own. “Busy” But patterns matter. If someone Everyone is busy. That part is not regularly makes you feel small, new. unheard, or unsure of your place, What we’re no longer accepting that feeling is worth paying is emotional absence disguised attention to. In 2026, we’re no as ambition, stress, or bad longer waiting for disrespect timing. Being busy doesn’t to become loud before we prevent someone from being acknowledge it. kind, responsive, or emotionally present. Availability is about priority, not a free calendar. In 2026, we’re no longer overcompensating for people who give the bare minimum.

Doing All the Emotional Work Alone

We are done carrying relationships on our backs.

If you’re always initiating conversations, explaining expectations, smoothing over conflict, or teaching someone how to treat you, that’s not partnership — that’s emotional labour. Over time, it turns connection into obligation and attraction into fatigue. Healthy relationships involve effort from both sides. Emotional responsibility should not sit with one person alone. If you’re doing all the work, stepping back is no longer dramatic — it’s necessary.

Potential Without Proof Chemistry is not a relationship plan.

We’re no longer staying because someone could be great someday, or because they speak beautifully about who they want to become. Potential without consistency keeps people stuck in stories instead of reality. In 2026, what someone does matters more than what they promise. Words may start things, but behaviour is what sustains them.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

The Version You’re Becoming

Beyond moods, there are versions of you shaped by time. The one navigating a new job. The one rebuilding after burnout. The one entering a quieter, more assured phase where dressing to be seen matters less than dressing to feel right. Style shifts here are slower, more instinctive. You start editing instead of accumulating. You care less about what photographs well and more about what feels honest. This is where personal style settles — not because it’s fixed, but because it finally reflects who you are becoming, not who you were trying to be.

FASHION FOR THE DIFFERENT VERSIONS OF YOU There isn’t just one version of you — and thank goodness for that. There’s the version that wakes up early, drinks water like it’s a personality trait, and wants clothes that mean business. There’s the softer version that wants ease, comfort, and room to breathe. There’s the bold one who steps out at night feeling untouchable. And there’s the inbetween version that doesn’t want labels, just clothes that make sense in the moment. For a long time, fashion tried to convince us to pick one lane. Be minimalist. Be maximalist. Be corporate. Be cool. But real life doesn’t work that way, and neither do we. Fashion, at its best, should move with you — not box you in. The idea of dressing for “the different versions of you” isn’t about having endless clothes. It’s about having a wardrobe that understands your moods, your seasons, and your realities. One that allows you to show up as who you are that day, not who you were last month or who Instagram thinks you should be.

The Put-Together Version

Then there’s the version of you that enters a room already knowing what she’s there to do. She gravitates towards structure. She values good tailoring, sharp shoulders, defined waists, and clean lines. Not for attention — but for presence. Modern power dressing isn’t stiff or severe. It’s balanced. A blazer paired with relaxed trousers. A crisp shirt softened with jewellery. Shoes that ground the outfit instead of overpowering it. This version of you dresses with intention, not aggression. She doesn’t need to announce herself — the clothes speak clearly enough.

PRISCILLIA MKAMBALA AND SOPHIE MOMODU

OLATERORA MAJEKODUNMI-ONIRU

The Bold Version

And then there are moments when subtlety just won’t do. This is when the bold version of you steps forward. She dresses for impact — colour, statement silhouettes, strong accessories, outfits that arrive before she does. This version doesn’t show up every day, but when she does, she commits. Bold dressing isn’t about excess; it’s about clarity. Choosing one thing to lead and letting everything else support it. A striking dress. An unexpected colour. A sharp cut. She understands restraint as much as she understands confidence — and that’s what gives the look its power.

ADUKE SHITTA BEY

The Effortless Version

This version doesn’t want to think too hard about getting dressed — and she doesn’t have to. Her wardrobe is built on pieces that work naturally together. Matching sets, simple dresses, reliable denim, and tops that don’t require explanation. Effortless style is rarely accidental. It comes from knowing what works for you and editing accordingly. This version isn’t chasing trends; she’s refining her taste. Her clothes move easily from day to evening with a shoe change or a bag swap. It’s fashion that respects your time, your energy, and your actual life.

EKU EDEWOR.

The Soft Version of You

Some days call for ease. For clothes that don’t fight your body or demand too much energy. This is the version of you drawn to fabrics that feel good on the skin and silhouettes that allow room to breathe. Relaxed tailoring, fluid dresses, soft knits, roomy trousers, and flats that don’t punish you for walking. Soft does not mean invisible. And it certainly doesn’t mean boring. This kind of dressing is intentional — neutral palettes with personality, linen that’s been cut properly, oversized pieces that still hold their shape. It’s fashion that understands long days, meaningful conversations, and the quiet confidence of comfort that doesn’t apologise for itself.

COLETTE OTUSHESO

RITA DOMINIC

LOLA OGUNNAIKE

VANESSA AZAR

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

4. Juxtaposition

TEN RANDOM THINGS THAT WILL ELEVATE YOUR STYLE IN 2026

Style is rarely loud. Most times, it shows up in small, deliberate choices that feel natural rather than forced. These are the kinds of details that don’t scream “fashion,” but somehow always get noticed.

5. Anything With Shoulder Pads

Blending opposites is always a vibe. Something soft with something sharp. Masculine tailoring with a delicate fabric. Vintage with modern. When you know how to place contrast side by side, your outfit feels thoughtful instead of predictable. It shows you understand balance, not just trends.

Shoulder pads instantly change posture and presence. It’s giving confidence, structure, and a little drama. Very 80s, but also very now. Whether it’s a blazer, a dress, or even a top, padded shoulders make an outfit feel intentional and powerful without trying too hard. FISAYO LONGE LILIAN AFEGBAI

CHICHI ADOGU

9. Not Matching, But It Goes This one is for the girls with eclectic taste. Nothing technically matches, yet everything makes sense together. The colours shouldn’t work, the prints shouldn’t sit well, but somehow they do. It’s the kind of style that can’t be copied because it comes from instinct, not rules. CHICHI ADOGU

2. Excessive Gold Jewellery Not minimal. Not delicate. Layered chains, stacked rings, bold earrings. Gold worn with confidence always looks intentional. It adds warmth and richness, especially against simple outfits. The key is wearing it like it belongs to you.

1. Double Denim, Done Right Denim on denim is tricky, which is why it works so well when done properly. Mixing shades, textures, or fits makes it feel modern instead of dated. When double denim looks easy on you, it’s clear you understand proportion.

NONYE UDEOGU

IDIA AISIEN

6. Tailored Bagginess MODEL FOR POLO AVENUE ANNA-KARIN KARLSSON

3. Chunky Glasses Big frames instantly add character. They give intellect, personality, and a bit of edge. Even the simplest outfit feels styled when chunky glasses are involved. It’s a small detail, but it changes everything.

It’s not baggy for the sake of being baggy. It fits where it should and relaxes where it can. This kind of dressing says you’re in control. The clothes don’t wear you, you wear them. It’s comfort, but elevated. Ease, but still polished.

7. Looking Comfortable in What You’re Wearing This is the real secret. When you’re at ease, everything looks better. You’re not adjusting, pulling, or apologising for your outfit. Comfort reads as confidence, and confidence will always be the most stylish thing in the room. IDIA AISIEN

ADUKE SHITTA-BEY

8. A Monochromatic Look One colour from head to toe will always look artistic. It’s clean, intentional, and quietly confident. Bonus points when the shoes match too. It shows restraint and understanding. No distractions, just a clear point of view. ADUKE SHITTA-BEY

10. Outerwear as the Outfit When the jacket, or blazer is the look, you already understand style. It means you know the power of silhouette. A strong outer layer can carry the whole outfit, even if there’s something simple underneath. Effortless, but never lazy.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

is an enormous demand and a strong sense of cultural pride. Nigerians genuinely love fashion and style. When you get it right, customers don’t just buy once — they become loyal and invested in the brand. There is also real global attention. Nigerian designers, stylists, models, and creatives are now visible on international runways, in magazines, and across pop culture. Lagos, especially, has become a trend incubator rather than a follower. The low barrier to entry also allows creatives to test ideas quickly using platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok. Creativity thrives here because people can start small and grow fast. However, the hard parts are often romanticised away. Infrastructure challenges test your patience daily — power, logistics, internet, and payment systems are inconsistent and quietly eat into profits and energy. Consumer behaviour can be unpredictable. People love premium aesthetics but often expect bargain prices, and brand loyalty can be fragile. There is also an intense copy culture. Designs get replicated quickly, sometimes before you even have the chance to scale. While intellectual property protection exists in theory, enforcing it is expensive and difficult. Cash flow can be unstable due to inflation, import duties, fuel scarcity, or social disruptions. Talent management is another challenge — great creatives exist, but structure, consistency, and retention take constant effort. Despite all this, the industry rewards resilience. If you are adaptable, intentional, and clear about your values, the opportunities are significant.

ictory Ifeoma Njoku, popularly known as Vickyheldan, has quietly but confidently built one of the most recognisable luxury brands in Nigeria’s creative space. Her journey began in fashion, designing for women who cared deeply about craftsmanship, femininity, and the kind of detail that doesn’t shout but lingers. What started as a single fashion label has since evolved into a multilayered brand spanning interior and architectural design, a luxury handbag line, and her fast-rising educational platform, Mastery with Vickyheldan. Beyond her commercial success, her commitment to empowerment is equally intentional. Through the Vickyheldan Foundation, she supports initiatives focused on education, mentorship, and social impact, reinforcing her belief that success should extend beyond personal achievement. In this conversation, Vickyheldan reflects on her evolution from fashion designer to industry leader, the realities of building and sustaining a creative business in Nigeria, how she manages multiple ventures without losing focus, and what lies ahead for a woman whose brand continues to grow—with clarity, discipline, and purpose.

You started out in fashion long before the interiors and masterclasses came along. What do you remember most vividly about those early days as a designer? Those early days were formative for me. They were filled with curiosity, experimentation, and a lot of learning on the go. I was sketching constantly, sourcing fabrics, fitting garments, making mistakes, and figuring things out through practice rather than theory. What I remember most vividly is how immersive the process felt. Fashion required discipline, patience, and attention to detail, but it also gave me freedom. I was learning how clothing could influence confidence, movement, and identity. Those experiences helped shape my creative depth and versatility, and they quietly laid the foundation for everything I do today. What inspired your transition from fashion design to interior design — was it a natural evolution or a business decision? It was a very natural evolution driven by passion and curiosity rather than a calculated business move. I’ve always seen myself as a multifaceted creative, and I’m open to exploring different forms of expression. Fashion design and interior design share the same core principles. They are both applied arts that shape how people experience space, emotion, and identity. At some point, my curiosity expanded beyond the body into the environments people live in. The transition felt organic, almost inevitable, rather than like a deliberate shift. How would you describe your journey from sketching dresses and accessories to designing entire spaces — do the two worlds ever overlap creatively? They overlap more often than people realise. Fashion trained me to think deeply about proportion, texture, colour, and how design interacts with the human experience. All of that translates seamlessly into interior design, just on a larger scale.In interiors, fabric becomes material, seams become joints, and silhouettes become spatial compositions. I still approach a space the same way I would approach an outfit — by layering elements, balancing statement pieces with quieter details, and making sure everything works together harmoniously. Lighting functions like jewellery, finishes add texture and depth, and furniture anchors the space the way a key garment would. Fashion taught me how to design emotionally and intuitively, while interior design allowed me to give those ideas permanence and context. Together, they inform my approach to creating spaces that feel curated, experimental, and compelling.

victory

NJOKU

FASHIONED BY VISION: BUILDING A LIFESTYLE EMPIRE

So back to you and the Vickyheldan brand — how do you juggle design, teaching, business strategy, and philanthropy? The brand works because everything is connected. I don’t see these as separate entities competing for my time. It’s one ecosystem. Design is the heartbeat — that’s where intuition, craft, and curiosity live. I protect that time fiercely because without creative clarity, everything else becomes noise. Teaching keeps me sharp and honest. Being in dialogue with students forces me to articulate why I make certain choices, not just how. It also reminds me that creativity is a shared language, not a hierarchy. Business strategy, for me, is about translation. It’s turning values into systems — pricing, partnerships, timelines, and boundaries. Strategy isn’t about scale for scale’s sake; it’s about sustainability so the work can continue without burning out the creator. Philanthropy is the compass. It answers the question of who benefits if the brand succeeds. When giving back is built into the structure — through mentorship, access, or direct support — it becomes part of the mission rather than an afterthought. I work in seasons rather than chasing daily balance, and I allow each role to inform the other instead of competing with it. What’s a regular workday like for you when you’re not on a project site or at a shoot? My days tend to unfold gently. Alongside meetings and planning, I make room for journaling, research, and long stretches of curiosity. I spend a lot of time reading, exploring ideas online, and following my interests wherever they lead. My mind is naturally inquisitive. I’m constantly questioning, learning, and reshaping how I think. Much of what I do is rooted in reinvention — a quiet, ongoing practice that feeds both my creative work and personal growth.

You’ve trained and mentored many young designers through Mastery with Vickyheldan. What’s the most important lesson you try to pass on to them? One of the most important lessons I emphasise is the power of curiosity paired with discipline. I encourage young designers to explore widely, but to ground that exploration in structure — iteration, feedback, and thoughtful critique. Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about problemsolving and communication. I also stress that failure isn’t just acceptable, it’s essential. Every mistake reveals something valuable. I want them to trust their instincts while remaining open to growth. Storytelling is another key lesson. A well-designed project isn’t just visually appealing; it communicates meaning and resonates emotionally. Mastery isn’t only about technical skill — it’s about connection. The luxury interior market in Nigeria is still relatively young. What are clients beginning to understand now that they didn’t five years ago? The market is maturing. Clients are moving away from surface-level luxury and imitation toward intentional, functional, and personalised spaces. Design is increasingly seen as a way to express lifestyle, identity, and values, not just aesthetics. There’s a stronger focus on functionality — efficient layouts, smart furniture, and multifunctional spaces, especially in urban homes where space is limited. Clients now value custom-made furniture, curated palettes, and unique details over mass-produced items. There’s also a growing appreciation for Afro-modern design, where local culture blends confidently with global influences. Technology has become part of luxury too — smart systems, automated lighting, climate control, and detailed 3D previews. Quality, sustainability, and thoughtful curation are replacing excess. Your designs — whether in fashion or interiors — always have a certain polish. How would you describe your personal style in three words? Elegant. Sophisticated. Timeless. The Nigerian creative industry is getting more international attention. What role do you think brands like yours play in shaping how the world sees African luxury? Brands like Vickyheldan help redefine African luxury by blending heritage, craftsmanship, and modern design. Every piece tells a story. We’re showing the world that African creatives don’t simply follow trends — we set them. We’re not just producing luxury; we’re shaping perception, proving that African style is thoughtful, refined, and globally relevant. What’s the most rewarding part of your work — the creative process, the client reactions, or the finished result? It’s the entire journey. Building a collaborative relationship with clients, translating their vision into something tangible, and seeing their reaction to the final result is deeply fulfilling. Successfully interpreting someone’s desires and bringing them to life never stops being rewarding. If you could tell young women watching you one truth about success in business, what would it be? Don’t rush timing—patience matters. Set realistic goals, stay consistent, and never lose your authenticity — that’s your real strength. Success unfolds differently for everyone, and learning to trust your own pace is just as important as ambition.

The Nigerian fashion and lifestyle industry is booming but still unpredictable. What’s your honest take on doing business here — the highs and the hard parts? Nigeria’s fashion and lifestyle industry is one of the most exciting markets in the world, but it is also one of the most challenging. There

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

DEMAS

NWOKO @ 90:

COVER

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

A LIFE!

BY FUNKE-BABS KUFEJI

emas Nwoko is a creative figure whose life spans art, theatre, architecture, and cultural thought. He is known as an architect, artist, and theatre designer, but these titles only describe parts of what he does. At his core, Demas is a builder of ideas, someone who believes that culture, like a house, must stand on strong foundations. As a young man, he trained in Europe on a French government scholarship, studying art and theatre design in Paris. His talent quickly gained attention, and opportunities opened for him to remain abroad. At a time when success often meant staying in Europe, Demas made a different choice. He returned to Nigeria, not because the path was easier, but because it felt necessary. He believed that the knowledge he had gained would matter more if used at home. Back in Nigeria, Demas helped shape modern theatre and design education as a pioneer lecturer at the University of Ibadan. From there, his work expanded naturally into architecture and large-scale cultural projects. He built studios, theatres, churches, cultural centres, and workshops spaces designed to work with the land, the climate, and the people who use them. His buildings are practical, thoughtful, and deeply connected to African ways of living. What sets Demas apart is his respect for tradition. To him, tradition is not something old or limiting. It is living knowledge that adapts, grows, and supports the future. This belief runs through all his work, whether in concrete, performance, or writing. Now at 90, Demas Nwoko is still active, reflective, and engaged with the world around him. This is a look into how a life guided by clarity, discipline, and cultural confidence can quietly shape generations.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

COVER

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

A LIFE OF BUILDING: For Demas, everything begins from one place. Not Paris, where he once painted frescoes, nor Venice, where an operatic future was briefly offered, nor the many Nigerian cities shaped by his hand. It begins with tradition. African tradition. Not as ornament, not as nostalgia, but as philosophy and foundation. Even now, at 90, he speaks of tradition not as something behind him, but as something still actively at work in his life. He speaks of African philosophy as having no fixed constant. To him, this is its greatest strength. It is a way of thinking developed over thousands of years, flexible enough to absorb change without losing its centre. That understanding has guided every decision he has made, every building he has designed, every stage he has imagined. Each work begins with a traditional motive, not because the past must be repeated, but because the future needs a base. As he puts it later in the interview, “The task of development is ageless.” This idea of continuity, rather than rupture, also shapes how Demas understands time itself. In his interview, he rejects the modern obsession with generational replacement. “There’s no generation time just rolling on in the life of the people,” he says. “We don’t recognize generations, because at the same time in one family you find the great grandfather, the fathers, and the children all working together.” At 90, he speaks not from theory, but from lived reality. His children and grandchildren now design, build, rehearse, and create alongside him. For him, culture does not advance by discarding elders or chasing novelty, but by layering experience, memory, and responsibility. Demas believes the most serious problem facing African societies today is not lack of technology, but loss of grounding. Other cultures, he observes, advance technologically while holding tightly to their traditions. Africa, on the other hand, has been encouraged to discard its own philosophies and aesthetics in favour of foreign models. These models, he argues, do not serve the place where Africans live, nor the conditions in which they must survive. His work is a response to that imbalance. It insists that progress must grow from within, or it will always remain unstable. This belief shaped one of the defining choices of his life. After creating a striking graphic interpretation of Mozart’s music in Europe, Demas received an invitation to remain in Venice. The production that led to the offer had been widely praised as a rare visual expression of classical music. Critics described it as an unusually sensitive reading of Mozart’s work. The offer that followed was to stay and help renew opera itself. He declined. The reasoning was clear. He had spent only one year in Europe. What enabled him to interpret Mozart was not European training, but African

creative knowledge. Why, then, should he use that knowledge to strengthen European institutions while his own country lacked modern structures for traditional theatre? How could he help another society innovate when his own had not yet built the foundations to do the same? Looking back across nine decades, that refusal no longer reads as sacrifice, but as long-term clarity. For Demas, recognition on the world stage is not granted through imitation. It comes from originality. Every culture is expected to bring its own creation to the common table. Cultural exchange, he says, is like trade. You offer what you have made, others offer what they have made, and value is exchanged. A society that produces nothing original becomes a buyer, not a contributor. Eventually, it can only afford copies. This conviction explains his refusal to see his work as risky. When asked about relocating to Idumuje-Ugboko to build the African Design Development Center long before community-rooted design became

fashionable, his response was characteristically calm: “Whatever I do, there’s no risk at all, because everything I do is fully in my control.” At 90, that sense of control has less to do with dominance and more to do with preparedness. “Because of my age,” he says elsewhere, “they couldn’t depend on me to run it.” Instead, he chose a model where younger artists own and operate the space themselves. This idea runs through all his work. He does not believe in accidental beauty or unexpected meaning. Nothing he creates surprises him. Every response is anticipated because every element is deliberate. Creativity, he insists, is labour. It is a process of refinement, not chance. Like poetry, it begins as excess. Words are written, then cut away, chiselled down until only what is essential remains. At this stage of life, what remains matters more than what is added. He often compares this to carving. African art, in his view, is unmatched in this discipline. It uses physical form to express complex ideas with precision. This is why his work resonates so deeply with people. Even when individuals believe they have abandoned their culture, it remains alive within them. His buildings and spaces draw it out. The recognition is immediate. People feel at home in the work because it speaks a language they already know. This understanding explains why his Mozart set design resonated so powerfully. European audiences were struck by how intuitively an African artist seemed to understand their music. Demas’s explanation was simple. The sound of Mozart reminded him of home. The rhythms echoed the music he grew up hearing, played by his father. He was not interpreting Mozart through European experience, but through African memory. The work felt new to Europe because it came from elsewhere. Architecture, for Demas, is never just about form. It is a social responsibility. One of the most misunderstood aspects of African architectural intelligence, he argues, is affordability. Before colonial intervention, shelter was universal. Every family could build a home using materials found nearby. Architecture responded to climate, availability, and

human capacity. Today, despite claims of technological advancement, many people cannot afford housing. Building materials are industrial, imported, and expensive. Even when produced locally, they remain beyond reach. Demas finds this deeply troubling. Animals can build shelters instinctively, yet human beings now struggle to do so. He questions what kind of progress produces homelessness rather than security. As he puts it bluntly, “Any thinking that does not materialize into your own growth and survival is not logical thinking.” Festac 77 represented a moment when a different future seemed possible. The works created then pointed toward a cultural modernism rooted in African identity. Demas’s opera, Children of Paradise, was conceived as a national project. Performers were selected from across the country so that the work would belong to everyone. The plan was to tour the production nationwide, allowing communities to see themselves reflected in a shared cultural achievement. That plan never materialised. Political and institutional failures prevented the gains of that era from taking root. The knowledge acquired after independence found no structure to sustain it. Institutions failed to translate learning into practice. After Festac, Demas withdrew from national platforms and returned to his hometown. This was not an end to creativity, but a repositioning. He sought a space where his work could exist without distortion or ridicule. He continued to create, but largely outside the national spotlight. “I didn’t expect to live so long,” he reflects now, “but each time I came out of it, I continued to do what I believed I was created to do.” For Demas, architecture, theatre, poetry, and design are not separate disciplines. They are expressions of the same creative act. All art is performance. Each work requires the careful orchestration of people, materials, technology, and intention. When it succeeds, the response is emotional and communal. People sing, dance, and give thanks. That reaction is not accidental. It is communication achieved. Grounded in one’s own culture, creativity becomes universal without trying to be. The more rooted the work, the wider its reach. This is the principle Demas has lived by. By refusing to abandon tradition, he has remained open to the world. By choosing home, he has spoken globally. At 90, he does not speak of legacy in grand terms. “Nobody gives himself a name,” he says. What he leaves behind instead are physical structures, working spaces, books, archives, and people who know how to continue. “I’m comfortable that even at 90, my projects that are unfinished can still be finished.” His work offers a quiet argument. That Africa does not need to imitate in order to belong. That progress does not require erasure. And that the future, if it is to endure, must rise from foundations laid patiently over time, shaped by belief, labour, and faith in one’s own inheritance.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

7. Lighting Is Lower, Warmer, and Layered

Lighting trends for 2026 move decisively away from overhead dominance. Instead, spaces rely on multiple, lower light sources to create atmosphere. Table lamps, wall sconces, floor lamps, and concealed lighting integrated into shelving or joinery take priority. Fixtures themselves are simpler in form but richer in material — ceramic bases, stone, aged metals. Warm light temperatures dominate, especially in living areas and bedrooms. The aim is comfort, not brightness. If a room only works when all the lights are on, it’s considered unfinished.

INTERIOR DÉCOR TRENDS FOR 2026: THE SHIFTS SET TO DEFINE OUR HOMES Interior décor in 2026 will be defined by depth — in colour, material, and intention. As design moves further away from fast trends and visual excess, a clear set of shifts is taking shape across how homes are planned, furnished and finished. From richer palettes to more tactile surfaces and substantial furniture, the year ahead points to interiors that are layered, warm and deliberate, with choices rooted in longevity, comfort and quiet confidence. What follows are the key décor trends expected to shape interiors globally in 2026.

1. Deeper, Grounded Colour Takes Over Entire Rooms In 2026, colour moves from accent to foundation. Instead of feature walls or decorative pops, deeper hues are used holistically — wrapping walls, ceilings, trims and even joinery in tonal layers. Expect to see brown in all its forms (chocolate, espresso, cocoa), alongside clay, rust, oxblood, olive, moss green and inky blue. These shades aren’t used for drama alone; they anchor spaces, making rooms feel calmer and more intentional.

3. Walls Stop Being Backgrounds

In 2026, walls are active design elements. Surface treatment becomes just as important as colour choice. Plaster, limewash and clay finishes continue to rise, valued for their movement and depth rather than perfection. These finishes soften rooms visually while adding quiet texture, particularly in living spaces and bedrooms.

4. Natural Materials, Refined, Not Rustic

Material choices in 2026 lean natural but considered. Raw no longer means rough; refinement is key. Wood appears darker and smoother — walnut, stained oak, and richly finished veneers replacing pale or unfinished looks. Stone surfaces are honed rather than polished, favouring softness over shine. Ceramics remain handmade, but shapes are restrained and purposeful. Material mixing becomes more intentional. Wood meets metal, stone meets fabric, matte surfaces are offset with subtle sheen. Kitchens and bathrooms embrace mixed metal finishes, pairing brass with blackened steel or soft chrome in ways that feel deliberate rather than decorative. image - 4

7. Décor Feels Collected, Not Curated 2. Furniture Becomes Softer, Heavier, and More Grounded

Furniture trends for 2026 favour presence over polish. Lightweight silhouettes and overly delicate frames give way to substantial pieces that visually and physically ground a space. Sofas deepen and widen, designed for lounging rather than posing. Dining tables showcase thickness — solid wood tops, sculptural bases, visible grain. Armchairs lean into rounded forms that support the body rather than just the aesthetic. Upholstery grows richer, too: textured linens, wool blends, brushed cottons, and matte leathers in warm tones like saddle, tobacco, and oxblood.

6. Spaces Are Defined, Not Completely Open

While open-plan living isn’t disappearing, 2026 interiors reflect a preference for softly defined zones. Instead of fully open layouts, designers introduce subtle separations that allow rooms to shift in function. Sliding panels, open shelving, screens, curtains and half-walls help create intimacy without closing spaces off completely. Living and dining areas feel connected but distinct, offering flexibility without chaos.

Perhaps the most telling shift for 2026 is how homes are finished. Styling gives way to collecting. Accessories appear layered over time — art chosen for connection rather than coordination, ceramics placed for use rather than symmetry, books and objects allowed to sit naturally. Matching sets lose relevance. Contrast becomes more interesting than cohesion. Vintage pieces, heirlooms and handmade objects sit comfortably alongside contemporary furniture, giving rooms personality without clutter.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

PRE-PARTY SKINCARE THAT ACTUALLY WORKS

Start With a Clean Slate (Literally)

A good cleanse is the pre-party equivalent of clearing negative energy—you don’t skip it. Wash off the day, the sweat, the stress, the Lagos dust, everything. Use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin; you want it clean, not confused. Double cleansing works magic, especially if you’ve worn sunscreen or makeup earlier. First, an oil-based cleanser to melt everything off, then a water-based cleanser to leave your skin soft and fresh.

(BECAUSE THE GLOW SHOULD ENTER THE ROOM BEFORE YOU DO.) There’s nothing quite like that pre-party excitement—the outfit is steaming, the playlist is vibing, and your makeup is lined up like loyal soldiers ready to serve. But here’s the real truth no one likes to admit: the glow always begins before the makeup brush. The best party look starts at the sink, not in your vanity bag. And when you get your pre-party skincare ritual right, the difference is almost disrespectful—your skin behaves, your foundation obeys, and the compliments? Endless. Here’s a simple, realistic, nondramatic routine that will get your skin red-carpet ready for any December party, girls’ night out, wedding, or “I might see my ex tonight” situation.

Ice: The Old Trick That Still Slaps

An ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth or a cold jade roller works wonders. A few minutes of depuffing brings down inflammation, tightens pores temporarily, and gives your face that snatched, awake look. Plus, it just feels good. Like your skin is saying, “Ah, finally.”

Exfoliate, But Don’t Moisturise Like You Mean Announce It With Redness It Nothing smooths the canvas like a gentle exfoliation. Keywords: gentle. This is not the day to experiment with a new acid that may or may not leave you looking like an extra from a superhero movie. Stick to what your skin knows— an exfoliating toner or a mild scrub that buffs away dullness without drama. The goal is simple: smoother texture, brighter complexion, and a face that won’t make your foundation pill in protest.

Hydration Is the Real Secret Weapon

CHINYERE ADOGU

ERICA NLEWEDIM

Every glowing skin story begins with hydration. Before you reach for serums that promise eternal youth, give your skin a drink— literally. A hydrating mist or toner sets the tone, plumps up the skin, and preps it to absorb everything else. Then comes the serum. This is where you pick your fighter: A hyaluronic acid serum for instant plumpness, A vitamin C serum, if you want that “I drink water and mind my business” brightness, Or a niacinamide serum for a smoother, refined look under makeup. Massage it in. Take your time. Let your skin enjoy it.

A Face Mask You Can Trust

There’s something luxurious about putting on a sheet mask while your hair is in rollers and your jewellery is laid out like a small museum exhibit. But beyond aesthetics, a good mask makes a visible difference. Hydrating sheet masks are always a safe bet—think aloe, snail mucin, or ceramides. They calm, brighten, and give you that fresh “just got a facial” look without the facial appointment. If sheet masks aren’t your thing,

a clay mask you’ve used before works too—especially if you’re oily-prone. The key is familiarity. Pre-party skin is not the time for adventure.

Moisturiser is the loyal friend in your routine—no drama, no big promises, just consistent results. Choose something lightweight but effective, so your makeup doesn’t slide off by 10 p.m. The trick is to press your moisturiser into the skin instead of dragging it around. This helps it absorb better and leaves the skin looking supple instead of shiny.

Prime Your Skin, Not Just Your Makeup

Before reaching for your actual primer, create a skincare base that works like one. A light, oilfree moisturiser or gel cream helps smooth texture and ensures your makeup stays put. If your skin drinks products quickly, layer a balm or slightly thicker cream around the mouth and eyes—areas where makeup tends to betray you after a few hours of dancing and talking.

Don’t Forget The Lips— They Matter More Than You Think

Cracked lips under gloss? God forbid. A quick scrub (you can even do sugar + honey) and a thick balm will make your lipstick glide on effortlessly. It also saves you from the embarrassing habit of licking your lips every 10 minutes.

And Finally… SPF (Even If It’s Nighttime)

Hear me out: the sun may have gone down, but your makeup products—especially foundations with SPF—layer better on protected skin. Plus, if you’ll be outdoors or taking pictures under harsh lighting, SPF still matters. Use a lightweight formula that won’t ball up under foundation, and give it a minute to settle before makeup.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198

unbalanced and inflamed. Proper skincare in 2026 focuses on gentle cleansing rather than frequent washing. Cleansing twice daily morning and night is enough for most skin types. During the day, blotting papers or rinsing with water can help manage sweat without disrupting the skin barrier. Using mild, sulfate-free cleansers keeps the skin clean, calm, and healthy, even in hot conditions. NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST BODY GEL AND FACE GEL MOISTURISER

2026 SKINCARE MISTAKES TO AVOID FOR BEAUTIFUL SKIN

Skipping Moisturizer for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

In 2026, taking care of your skin is about more than just using the latest products. It’s about understanding how your environment, habits, and daily routine affect your skin’s health. For Nigerians dealing with hot and humid weather, many common skincare practices can actually do more harm than good, causing breakouts, dark spots, irritation, and even early signs of aging. From skipping sunscreen to trying harsh DIY remedies, these habits often get passed around as “normal” beauty routines. With more knowledge and better products available than ever before, it’s time to separate the myths from the facts and create routines that actually work for our climate and skin type. This guide walks you as man or woman through the most common skincare mistakes to avoid in 2026, with practical tips to help you maintain healthy, glowing, and balanced skin all year long. By Funke Babs Kufeji

Skipping Sunscreen Because of Dark Skin One of the biggest skincare mistakes people in hot climes continue to make even in 2026 is believing that dark skin does not need sunscreen. While melanin offers some natural protection, it does not block harmful UVA and UVB rays. Prolonged sun exposure without protection leads to hyperpigmentation, stubborn dark spots, uneven skin tone, premature wrinkles, and increased risk of skin cancer. In Nigeria’s hot climate, the sun is intense almost all year round, making daily sun protection essential. Many people only apply sunscreen at the beach or during outdoor events, forgetting that everyday activities like driving in traffic, or sitting near windows also expose the skin to UV rays. Skipping sunscreen also worsens existing skin issues such as acne marks and melasma, making treatments less effective. To avoid this mistake, sunscreen

should be treated as a nonnegotiable step in your morning routine. Lightweight, gel-based or matte sunscreens now make it easier to stay protected without feeling greasy. Applying sunscreen daily and reapplying when outdoors helps maintain clear, youthful, and even-toned skin in the long term.

Using Heavy Skincare Products in Hot Weather Many people still use thick creams and heavy oils all year round, forgetting that skincare needs change with weather conditions. In Nigeria’s heat and humidity, heavy products can suffocate the skin, trap sweat, and clog pores, leading to acne, blackheads, and heat rashes. What works during cooler seasons or at night may be too much for daytime wear under the sun. Heavy creams mixed with sweat and pollution create the perfect environment for bacteria, which can trigger frequent breakouts and dull-looking skin. This mistake is common among

people who believe thicker products mean better hydration, when in reality, hydration depends on the right ingredients not texture. In 2026, skincare is about smarter layering and breathable formulas. Switching to lightweight lotions, gel moisturizers, and water-based serums during the day allows the skin to stay hydrated without feeling sticky or congested. Using heavy products sparingly mostly at night helps maintain balance and prevents unnecessary skin irritation in hot weather. NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST BODY GEL AND FACE GEL MOISTURISER

Over-Washing the Face to Control Oil and Sweat

Sweating is unavoidable in hot weather, but over-washing the face is a mistake that often does more harm than good. Many people wash their faces multiple times a day, believing it will keep oil and acne away. However, excessive cleansing strips the skin of its natural protective oils, weakening the skin barrier. When this happens, the skin responds by producing even more oil, leading to increased shine, clogged pores, and breakouts. Over-washing can also cause dryness, sensitivity, and irritation, especially when harsh soaps or scrubs are used. Instead of feeling fresh, the skin becomes

A common misconception is that oily or acne-prone skin does not need moisturizer, especially in hot weather. This mistake leads to dehydrated skin, which then overproduces oil to compensate. The result is even more shine, clogged pores, and frequent breakouts. Moisturizers play a vital role in maintaining the skin’s barrier and keeping it balanced, regardless of skin type. Without proper hydration, the skin becomes stressed and more prone to irritation and inflammation. In 2026, skincare education emphasizes hydration without heaviness. Lightweight, oil-free moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide help hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Skipping moisturizer might feel comfortable temporarily, but over time it worsens skin texture and acne. Proper hydration supports smoother skin, better makeup application, and improved overall skin health, even in Nigeria’s humid climate.

Sleeping Without Proper Cleansing After long days, traffic stress, or social events, many people go to bed without properly cleansing their skin. Sleeping with sweat, makeup, sunscreen, and dirt clogs pores and accelerates breakouts, dullness, and premature aging. During sleep, the skin repairs itself, but this process is disrupted when pores are blocked. In hot weather, sweat mixed with bacteria and pollution worsens acne and causes skin irritation. This habit also leads to rough texture and uneven tone over time. Proper nighttime cleansing is one of the most important skincare habits to adopt in 2026. Even when tired, using micellar water, cleansing balm, or a gentle face wash removes impurities and allows the skin to breathe. Clean skin absorbs treatments better and recovers faster overnight, resulting in clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Ignoring Heat Rash and Fungal Infections Hot and humid weather creates the perfect environment for heat rash and fungal infections, yet many people ignore early symptoms. Rashes, itching, and tiny bumps are often dismissed as temporary, allowing conditions to worsen. Areas like the neck, underarms, inner thighs, and under the breasts are especially prone. Without treatment, these issues can spread and leave dark marks. In 2026, skin health includes paying attention to the body, not just the face. Keeping skin dry, wearing breathable fabrics, and treating symptoms early helps prevent discomfort and long-term skin damage.

Mixing Too Many Active Ingredients at Once Using multiple active ingredients simultaneously is a growing skincare mistake. Combining acids, retinol, scrubs, and vitamin C can overwhelm the skin, causing irritation, peeling, and sensitivity to sunlight. More products do not equal better results. In hot weather, overusing actives increases the risk of sun damage and inflammation. Smart skincare in 2026 prioritizes simplicity and balance. Using one active at a time and allowing the skin to adjust leads to healthier, more resilient skin.

Using Fake or Expired Skincare Products

The rise of counterfeit skincare products remains a serious problem. Fake or expired products can cause allergic reactions, burns, and longterm skin damage. Cheap prices and social media hype often mislead consumers into buying unsafe items. In 2026, protecting your skin means buying from trusted sources, checking expiry dates, and patchtesting new products. Authentic skincare may cost more, but it saves you from costly skin damage in the long run. fake vs original the ordinary-products

Neglecting Body Skincare Many people focus only on facial skincare while ignoring the rest of the body. Sun exposure, dryness, and hyperpigmentation affect the neck, arms, legs, and chest too. Neglecting body care leads to uneven skin tone and premature aging. In 2026, complete skincare includes daily moisturizing, sun protection on exposed areas, and gentle exfoliation. Caring for the whole body ensures consistent, healthy, and glowing skin from head to toe.

Sunday, January 11, 2026 Vol. 22, No. 11198