Fashionista Changing The Narration On Fashion In Maiduguri, Redefining The Runway

A fashionista, Ruth Daniel, is changing the narrative of fashion in Borno State’s capital, Maiduguri, paving a new path in the fashion industry.

Also the CEO, Truth Empire, a fashion and design company, Miss Daniel initiated a fashion show, Maiduguri Royal Bounty Fashion Show, Decency In Fashion, in 2022, where fashion designers and brands showcase their work and talents.

The host said that the program is aimed at showcasing and promoting decency in fashion.

Now in it’s third edition, the fashion event, which took place at Pinnacle Hotel, Maiduguri on Saturday, has taken a new direction, carrying everyone along.

In an interview with this reporter at the program, the fashionista said the fashion event is an open platform for fashionistas like herself, to bring their craft to the public stage.

With the theme ‘Redefining Runways’ this year’s edition, she explained, is aimed to ensure and promote inclusiveness, an equal opportunity for people of different race, color, religion, culture, and people with disabilities among others.

‘We have also featured people with disability on the runway because we want everyone to get involved,” she noted.

Narrating some of her challenges on the program, she said “although fashion events are new to the town, we are witnessing progress now, we are getting more involvement from both the fashion designers and audience as well.”

She said that the program is getting more partners both within and outside the fashion industry.

At the event, several fashion brands showcaseed their work on the runway.

The program also featured artists performance by young aspiring musicians and other entertainment.

While thanking the sponsors and partners for ensuring the success of the program, Miss Daniel also called on other fashion designers in Maiduguri and and it’s environs to key into the program and be a part of an important step in developing the fashion industry in the state.

She noted that some of the partners, including, Mtn, Airtel, Multichoice, Al-Ansar Radio and Television, FRAD Foundation, Mercy Sarah foundation (MESAF), New Foundation for Displaced Persons (NFDP) and Young Prodigy (YPHO).

Others she said are; NTA, Septagon Security Service, Nkamson Charity Foundation (NCF), Kaph Kaph Printers, Emirate Dance Company and Harmony Haven Ushering Service and others.

Speaking to journalists after the event, Ene Audi, one of the guests said that fashion shows are important to especially new and aspiring fashion designers.

She said such events will not only give them the opportunity to market their products but will instigate and expose them to new ideas in the fashion enterprise.

The Fashion Designers/Brands

Baahiyan Collection, a fashion brand that is into designing of female clothing has showcased their designs on the runway.

According to an official of the brand, Fatima Suleiman, Baahiyan started about eight years ago and is specialized in designing and sewing female gowns.

On the fashion show, Fatima said their brand has participated in all three editions and it has impacted on their business.

“I think Ruth is doing a great job, and the outlook and theme of the program is really interesting,” she said.

Fatima also commended the idea on the title of the program, noting that it reflects the norms, culture and diversity of the environment.

“Decency in fashion, I think Maiduguri people would love that,” she noted.

Another fashion brand, MPK Collection has participated in the show.

MPK is specialized in designing and sewing of men clothing, suits, caps and uniforms.

In an interview, the MPK CEO, Sikari Gadzama, said however that they also make female cloths like gown and Buba.

A fashion designer with over 30 years experience, Mr. Gadzama noted that their brand also offers special services for special occasions and customized designs for celebrities, public figures, models and other services.

“I started tailoring and fashion designing in Niger State and later here in Maiduguri, and I also engaged in training of people on fashion and designing,” he added.

Faheemat Couture, another fashion brand that participated in the event has showered praises on the organizer.

Fatima Tahir Ahmed, the brand CEO said that althought this was the first time they are walking the runway, the event has cultivated a new sense of ideas and direction to their business.

She noted that Faheemat Couture is a five year old establishment and is into female designs.

Other services they provide, she said includes children wears.

“We are specialized in bridal outfits, casual wears as well as childrens wears,” she noted.

Sani Saidu, another participant and the owner, Sani Saidu Design said that this is not his first time of attending a fashion event, but “I have never experienced a more organized one like this one.”

Specializing in men clothing, Mr. Saidu said that he has over 15 years experience in fashion and design.

He said that the fashion show is a welcome idea and has open new doors and opportunities for their businesses.

“This event is an eyes opener for us in this town and I am calling on other local designers to partner and key into this program,” he said.

He added that with this new experience, he will make a better plan for subsequent fashion shows.