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| Nkechi Ali-Balogun. |
We just concluded the Grammy Awards, and honestly, one moment stood out to me—not for the music, but for a missed cultural opportunity.
One
of our own had the chance to showcase the richness of Nigerian culture on a
global stage, and that opportunity slipped by. Part of being connected to a
global icon—whether as a spouse or partner—is understanding that visibility also comes with influence.
Fashion is language. It tells a story. Imagine the statement that could have
been made if Nigerian haute couture had taken that red carpet moment. Imagine
Aso-Oke, handwoven artistry, bold silhouettes—Nigeria
proudly represented while aligning beautifully with her husband’s sound and roots.
Our
fashion is trending globally. Even international designers and stylists are
drawing inspiration from it. This could have been a powerful moment of cultural
diplomacy—a chance to be a proud ambassador for
Nigerian creativity.
Think
of the Anikulapos in their regal Aso-Oke. They made Nigeria proud. That is what
intentional representation looks like.
This
isn’t about one person alone. It speaks to a broader
issue—the gradual erosion of cultural confidence driven
by the need to “fit in.” In the
past, our African features and aesthetics were mocked. Today, they are
celebrated. The more authentically African you look, the more powerful the
statement.
We
have designers—Vicky James, Loisonell, House of Tubo,
and many others—who consistently create pieces that
command global attention. Nigerian fashion has presence. It has voice. It has
value.
Too
often, we equate “having arrived”
with looking as Western as possible—spending fortunes
on imported hair, labels, and luxury items—when true
sophistication lies in substance, confidence, and authenticity. Icons like
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Chimamanda Adichie, Nike (Art Gallery)and others have
shown us that identity is not diminished by culture; it is strengthened by it.
Remember how Ojude Oba fashion trended worldwide? We have it. Truly, we do.
Moments like these require intention. When the world is watching, research, reflection, and self-awareness matter. No matter how much we admire other cultures, we can never outdo them at being themselves—but we can be unmatched at being us. Diversity is what keeps the world interesting.
What
we communicate through our choices reflects not just personal taste, but
values, emotional intelligence, and cultural pride.
So
next time the opportunity comes, let us choose to represent. Let us be
ambassadors. Nigerian women carry heritage, dignity, and power. Our culture is
not something to hide—it is something to present with
confidence.
We
must learn to seize the moment. 🇳🇬✨
Nkechi
Ali-Balogun, Ph.D., fnipr is a public relations expert and writers from Lagos.
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