THEWILL DOWNTOWN MARCH 29, 2026

The

Designers Rewriting Nigeria’s Fashion Scene

EDITOR’S NOTE

Nigeria’s

fashion industry has undergone a significant shift. Not only in its growth but also in its direction. Designers are establishing identities, influencing culture, and redefining the image of Nigerian fashion on the global stage. Some of the designers we profile include Lisa Folawiyo, Ohimai Atafo, Lanre Da Silva, Ugo Monye, Yutee Rone, Emmanuel Okoro, Adebayo Oke-Lawal, and Veekee James.

These designers are showing just how vibrant and diverse Nigerian fashion has become. Each one of them brings something unique, from luxury tailoring and bold prints to cultural storytelling and gender free designs.

Together, they are not just creating clothes; they are shaping identities, setting global standards, and showing the world that Nigerian fashion is powerful, innovative, and unforgettable.

Their work inspires women and men, brides and celebrities, creatives and everyday fashion lovers to embrace style with confidence and pride. Thanks to them, Nigerian fashion is truly in a renaissance.

Read more about this fashion story on pages 8 to 10.

The way people socialise has evolved. In the past, social life followed a specific rhythm. People gathered for meetings, and conversations lasted for hours. Nowadays, technology has transformed how friendships are formed and maintained. Despite these changes, people still desire meaningful relationships. What has changed is how those relationships function in the modern world. Scroll to page 15 to find out more.

One of the most significant contributors to well-being is sometimes overlooked: friendships. Friends are the support network that helps us manage life’s pressures. They stand by us through thick and thin. Read how strong friendships serve as a form of therapy on our wellness page. You’ll find it on page 13.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah

@onahluciaa +2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writers: Johnson Chukwueke & Dorcas Akintoye

Design & Layout: Hogan Effiom

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm

- Contributing Writer

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

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind - Contributing Writer

Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

Ada Obiajunwa @aaddaahh - Contributing Writer

Ada Obiajunwa writes from Lagos about the big truths tucked inside ordinary moments — friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet revolutions of everyday life. She believes in the power of presence, good banter, and decoding the unsaid. Through her fragrance studio, WhiffWonders, she also crafts scents that weave memory and emotion into experiences that feel like home.

Why Meaningful Relationships Are Great Stress Relievers

Career Moves That Look Small, But Change Everything

Simple Changes That Refresh Your Home Instantly The New Social Life How People Connect Today The Best Friend and I 5 Breathtaking Places in Nigeria Worth Travelling To The Joy of Eating Alone Rediscovering Solo Dining

STYLISH WAYS TO WEAR A BODYCON TOP

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Fashion is not only about what you wear, but it is also about how you wear it. A bodycon top is a fashion piece many women love because it fits close to the body and highlights the natural shape of the figure. Some people think bodycon tops can only be worn in one way, but that is not true. The good thing about this top is that it can be styled in many ways, depending on the look you want. You can dress it up for an outing or keep it simple for a casual day. Here are four stylish ways to wear a bodycon top.

PAIR IT WITH HIGH-WAISTED JEANS

One of the easiest and most stylish ways to wear a bodycon top is with high-waisted jeans.The fitted nature of the top pairs well with high-waisted jeans, creating a balanced and flattering look.You can complete the look with sneakers, heels, or simple sandals, depending on where you are going. Adding a small handbag and simple jewellery can also make the outfit look more polished.

STYLE IT WITH A MIDI SKIRT

Wearing a bodycon top with a midi skirt creates a more elegant and feminine look.The fitted top balances the skirt's flow, making the outfit look neat and stylish. This combination works well for different occasions such as dinner outings, casual events, or even semiformal gatherings. A plain bodycon top with a patterned or pleated midi skirt can make the outfit more interesting.

LAYER IT WITH A BLAZER

If you want a more polished and classy look, you can wear your bodycon top under a blazer.This styling method makes the outfit look more structured and sophisticated.You can pair this look with tailored trousers, jeans, or even a skirt. Neutral colours like black, beige, or white blazers work very well because they are easy to match.This style is great for meetings, smart casual events, or even a stylish work look.

WEAR IT WITH WIDE-LEG TROUSERS

Another stylish way to wear a bodycon top is with wide-leg trousers. Since the top is fitted, the loose shape of the trousers creates a beautiful balance.You can tuck the bodycon top into the trousers to highlight your waist and give the outfit a clean finish.

SALLY CHIWUZIE @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

UNTOLD TRUTHS

She Chose a Child Over Consent

It is always interesting to observe the rules people are raised with, especially the ones presented as non-negotiable until life quietly introduces its own amendments.

She came from a traditional Christian background, structured, clear, and rooted in what was believed to be order. It was not without its contradictions, as most belief systems allow loopholes when they serve the right purpose, but on the surface, everything appeared simple.

You stayed a virgin until your early twenties. You met a man from a good family, and “good” often carried more weight than anyone cared to admit. You married him in a ceremony that was both sacred and strategic. You built a life that looked aligned, respectable, and worthy of admiration.

You were supportive enough for him to shine, disciplined enough to remain desirable, and ready enough to have children as soon as possible, ideally a son.

That was the blueprint.

By the time she approached thirty, none of it had happened.

At first, she told herself it did not matter. Her life looked full in its own way. There were pictures, laughter, independence, and carefully curated moments that suggested she was exactly where she needed to be.

Truth, however, has a way of surfacing in quieter moments.

Late at night, when there was no one left to perform for, she would sit by the fire with a cigarette and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and feel the gap between the life she had been raised to expect and the one she was living. On those nights, it did not just matter. It ached.

She was not chasing a man. She was chasing a life she had been taught was the only one worth having.

When she met him, it did not feel significant.

He was not offering love or a future. He was simply there, open enough for something casual and closed enough to promise nothing more.

It began as harmless fun, or so she told herself.

Something shifted. She began to think about time, about what she wanted, and about what she no longer trusted would arrive on its own.

She made a decision.

It was quiet, deliberate, and once it formed, she could not unsee it. She punctured the condoms. When that was not possible, she said she was on birth control. She adjusted her narrative carefully and explained nothing.

Eventually, she got pregnant.

that felt performative, so she stopped. The truth was that she had what she wanted.

Not in the way it had been prescribed and not in the order she had been taught, but the outcome, in her eyes, was the same.

The duality of it is what makes it difficult to sit with. On one hand, she had been quietly shackled by cultural expectation and found a loophole to achieve part of it, if only to quiet the noise around her. On the other hand, there was independence in what she had done, a deliberate choice to go after what she wanted in spite of the cost.

He did not want it. His interests were elsewhere, and whatever they shared did not extend into responsibility.

Publicly, she was distressed. Privately, she was relieved.

Relief did not come from him. It came from the quiet realisation that her life had begun to resemble the version she had always been taught to believe in.

She protected that pregnancy fiercely. In time, she gave birth to a son, the very thing she believed would complete the picture.

She tried, briefly, to question his absence, but even

Opinions formed quickly, as they always do.

Some said she had trapped him. Others argued autonomy and fairness. Some judged loudly, others quietly.

Some said nothing at all.

Certain stories do not sit neatly in categories of right and wrong. They exist in the space where desire, expectation, fear, and control collide, and where truth feels less like morality and more like survival.

Perhaps the #Unshakable truth is this:

Sometimes the choices that disturb us most are not born from cruelty, but from longing that has been left unanswered for too long.

Before deciding who should be condemned, a quieter question deserves to be asked, and it is not whether she was right, but whether you understand what it takes for someone to decide they would rather be judged for what they did than for the life they felt they were never allowed to live.

See you next week.

FASHION RENAISSANCE

The Designers Rewriting Nigeria’s Fashion Scene

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Nigeria’s fashion industry is not what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. What we are seeing now feels like a rebirth. Not just growth, but a clear shift in direction. Designers are no longer just making clothes; they are building identities, shaping culture, and redefining what Nigerian fashion looks like on a global stage.

This new wave is not about chasing trends or copying what already exists. It is about owning our voice and telling our stories in a way that feels honest, bold, and original. Tradition is no longer something to preserve quietly in the background. It is being reworked, restyled, and pushed forward into something modern and confident.

Designers like Lisa Folawiyo, Veekee James, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, Mai Atafo, Adebayo Oke-Lawal, Yutee Rone, Emmanuel Okoro, and Ugo Monye are leading this movement. Each of them is doing something different. Each of them is pushing boundaries in their own way. And together, they are rewriting the Nigerian fashion story.

Lisa Folawiyo

Lisa Folawiyo is one of the designers who helped change how people see African fashion. She started her brand, originally called Jewel by Lisa, which is now called Lisa Folawiyo, in 2005 from her home in Lagos with a small amount of money and simple materials. Her brand is known for turning Ankara into luxury fashion. Instead of using the fabric in the usual way, she adds beads, sequins, and careful tailoring to make each piece look rich and modern.

What makes her different is how she mixes tradition with a global style. She didn’t follow the normal fashion path, but she still built a strong identity by sticking to Ankara and improving it. She made people see that African prints can be worn anywhere in the world.

Her impact is huge. Her designs have been worn by celebrities and shown in cities like New York, Paris, and Milan. She has helped put Nigerian fashion on the global map. People who wear her designs are stylish women, celebrities, and fashion lovers who like bold prints but still want a clean, modern look.

Lanre Da Silva

Lanre Da Silva is one of the early designers who helped shape modern Nigerian fashion. She started her brand, LDA, in 2005 after studying fashion in the UK. From the beginning, her goal was to bring a different feel to African fashion, something more vintage, detailed, and feminine.

Her brand is known for its soft, ladylike style. She uses lace, silk, and custom prints to create dresses that feel elegant and timeless. Her pieces often have a classic look that doesn’t go out of style.

What makes her different is her consistency. You can easily recognise an LDA design because of its structure, prints, and soft, romantic feel. She also pays close attention to finishing, which makes her pieces stand out.

Her impact in the industry is strong. She is seen as one of the pioneers of luxury ready-to-wear fashion in Nigeria and has helped raise the standard for quality and branding. Over the years, she has shown her work both locally and internationally.

People who wear her designs are classy women, socialites, and professionals who like a polished and feminine look. Her brand speaks to women who love elegance without trying too hard.

Ohimai Atafo

Ohimai Atafo is one of Nigeria's most respected designers, known for clean, well-tailored outfits. He started his fashion brand, first called Mai Atafo Inspired, around 2007 while still working in the corporate world. He later went fully into fashion in 2010, and officially grew the brand into what is now known as ATAFO, launched in 2010.

His brand focuses on menswear, womenswear, and especially weddings. He is known for perfectly fitted suits, bridal gowns, and classy outfits that always look neat and sharp. His “Weddings by Mai” line made him very popular because he handles everything from the bride’s dress to the groom’s suit.

What makes him different is his focus on tailoring and structure. His clothes are not loud, but they are very clean, fitted, and detailed. He also has a strong background in branding, which helped him build a clear identity for his fashion business.

His impact in the industry is strong. He has dressed many celebrities and worked on big events, helping to raise the standard of men’s and wedding fashion in Nigeria.

People who wear his designs are mostly grooms, brides, celebrities, and professionals who like a clean, classy, and polished look. His brand is for people who want to look simple but very put-together.

Veekee James

Veekee James is one of the most talked-about names in Nigeria’s fashion scene. She started her brand, Veekee James, around 2018–2019 after learning how to sew from her mother while growing up. What began from a small space in Lagos has grown into a strong fashion brand known for luxury and detail.

Adebayo Oke-lawal

Her brand focuses mostly on bridal and red-carpet outfits. She is known for fitted dresses, corsets, and heavy beadwork that shape the body and make women stand out. Her designs are not just clothes; they are statement pieces that highlight confidence and elegance.

What makes her different is how she pays attention to structure and finishing. Her dresses often look sculpted to the body, and she puts a lot of effort into details. She also shares her knowledge through masterclasses, helping other designers grow.

She has won major awards, including the AMVCA Best Designer, and has dressed top celebrities for major events.

People who wear her designs are mostly brides, celebrities, influencers, and women who want to look bold and classy. Her brand speaks to women who love luxury and want to be seen.

Adebayo Oke-Lawal is one of the designers changing how people see fashion in Nigeria. He started his brand, Orange Culture, in 2011 after teaching himself how to sew and working with other designers. Orange Culture is not just a fashion brand; it is more like a movement. The brand focuses on both menswear and womenswear, using bright colours, prints, and relaxed styles. His designs mix Nigerian fabrics with modern streetwear, creating outfits that feel fresh and different.

What makes him stand out is his bold approach to fashion. He creates gender-free clothing, meaning anyone can wear his pieces. He challenges the idea that certain clothes are only for men or women, and uses fashion to talk about identity and self-expression. His designs often tell stories about real life, emotions, and society.

His impact has been strong both in Nigeria and outside. Orange Culture has shown at Lagos, New York, and London Fashion Week, and has been recognised globally, even getting attention from major fashion platforms.

People who wear his designs are creatives, celebrities, and bold individuals who like to express themselves freely. His brand is for people who are not afraid to stand out and be different.

Yutee Rone

Yutee Rone is one of the designers known for luxury and strong feminine style in Nigeria. She started her brand, Yutee Rone, around 2006, and has spent almost two decades building it into a high-end womenswear label.

Her brand focuses on luxury women’s fashion. She creates dresses, structured outfits, and statement pieces using rich fabrics like silk, organza, and satin. Her designs are known for their clean finishes, sculpted shapes, and a soft yet powerful look.

What makes her different is how she mixes art, nature, and fashion. Many of her collections are inspired by things like the ocean or rainforest, and you can see that in the colours and shapes of her clothes. She also uses experimental fabrics and detailed craftsmanship, which gives her designs a unique feel.

Her impact in the industry is strong. She has showcased her work on international runways such as London and New York Fashion Week, helping to elevate Nigerian fashion to a global level. She is also known for creating fashion experiences, not just clothes.

People who wear her designs are classy women, socialites, and celebrities who like luxury and bold elegance. Her brand is for women who want to look powerful, confident, and unforgettable.

Ugo Monye

Emmanuel Okoro

Emmanuel Okoro is the creative mind behind Emmy Kasbit, a Nigerian fashion brand he officially launched in 2014. He started designing earlier, around 2013, while in school, turning a small tailoring hustle into a full fashion label.

The Emmy Kasbit brand focuses on menswear and womenswear, but with a strong identity. It is known for clean cuts, structured outfits, and the use of traditional fabrics like Akwete. The brand works with local artisans to create handwoven textiles, which are then turned into modern outfits.

What makes Emmy Kasbit different is how it mixes culture with modern style. Instead of copying Western fashion, the brand tells African stories through fabric and design. The clothes often look simple at first, but the details, patterns, and finishing make them stand out.

His impact in the industry has been strong. He won the Lagos Fashion Week Fashion Focus Fund in 2017, which helped push his brand forward. Since then, he has gained international attention and has been worn by celebrities and global figures.

People who wear Emmy Kasbit are creatives, fashion lovers, and professionals who like to look different but still classy. His brand is for people who value culture, detail, and quiet confidence.

Ugo Monye is one of the most talked about menswear designers in Nigeria. He launched his brand, Ugo Monye, around 2009 and has spent more than a decade building it into a top luxury fashion label known for bold, modern African style.

His brand began with unisex pieces, but over time, he focused mainly on menswear because that let him be more creative with cuts, tailoring, and innovation. Ugo Monye is known for strong silhouettes, detailed tailoring, and rich fabrics that help redefine traditional Nigerian clothing like agbada into something modern and elegant.

What sets him apart is how he blends tradition with high fashion. He often uses cultural elements but gives them new life with contemporary design. His collections tell stories about heritage, pride, and style in ways that appeal to both local and global audiences.

His impact on the fashion industry is big. He’s been nominated for awards, shown at major events like Lagos Fashion Week, and dressed celebrities, including musicians, at high profile appearances.

People who wear his designs are mostly men who want luxury fashion with cultural roots, celebrities looking to make a statement, and style lovers who appreciate quality, creativity, and bold fashion.

ADA OBIAJUNWA @aaddaahh

You finally get the thing you used to talk about, like it would fix everything.

The job you once said would change your life. The relationship you were sure would calm you down.

The salary that used to feel impossible. The apartment you screenshotted when you couldn't afford it.

You stand in it one day and think, quietly:

So… this is it.

Not disappointed. Just noticing.

You thought something inside you would shift.

That you'd wake up lighter.

More secure. More certain. Instead, you wake up and check your phone the same way.

Overthink the same way.

Second-guess the same way.

SO, THIS IS IT

LUXURY SILK

Just in nicer surroundings. Because you imagined arrival would feel different in your body.

You thought you would carry yourself differently. Walk into rooms with less apology. Stop replaying conversations at 2am. Stop wondering if you are doing enough, being enough, moving fast enough.

You thought the promotion would quieten that voice.

The ring would steady it.

The number in your account would finally silence it.

But the voice does not read your CV. It has never once been impressed by your LinkedIn.

It was there before the achievement. It is still there after.

And the strange thing is, you cannot even be angry about it.

Because the thing is genuinely good. The job is real. The relationship is real. The apartment is real.

You are not ungrateful. You are just quietly surprised that you are still you.

Still the same person who worries. Still the same person who wonders. Just with better wifi.

That's the part no one prepares you for. The dream can be real.

And the feeling you expected never quite arrives. You don't say that out loud because it sounds ungrateful. You worked for this. You told people this was the goal. You prayed about this. You made deals with God about this. Specific, detailed deals.

Lord, if I pass this exam, I will never complain

about learning again.

You meant it sincerely.

You fully intended to keep that promise.

And then life enrolled you in a different school. No fees. No timetable. No graduation date. Just the school of hard knocks. Which, it turns out, has a very aggressive curriculum.

Nobody told us it was also just another departure point.

Nobody said you would get there and immediately start looking for the next thing to chase.

Because standing still feels like falling behind.

Even when you are exactly where you said you wanted to be.

Real adulthood is more awkward than that.

You build something. You reach it.

You look around.

And does not accept transfer credits from anywhere. And part of you is slightly embarrassed that you expected more.

Embarrassed that you thought arrival would upgrade your personality.

You thought it would quiet your mind. It doesn't.

It just gives your mind better furniture.

And that realisation can sting.

Because we were sold a before and after story. Struggle. Then glow-up. Chaos. Then clarity.

Work hard. Then feel complete.

We grew up watching it play out that way.

The music video where the ending is always a mansion.

The Instagram grid that skips from struggle to success with no Tuesday in between.

The aunty at the party who asks what you have achieved, not how you are doing.

And when you tell her, she nods, files it away, and immediately asks about the next thing. Because achievement was always the destination.

Then you carry on.

No music swelling in the background.

Just Tuesday.

Tuesday with the same inbox that did not get the memo that you have arrived.

The same body that still needs water and sleep and movement.

The same relationships that need attention whether or not you got the promotion.

The same quiet moments where you catch yourself wondering what comes next.

Not because what you built was not enough.

But because you are still alive inside it. Still curious. Still restless. Still reaching. And slowly you start to understand that this is not the absence of success.

This is what success actually feels like from the inside.

Ordinary. Continued. Yours.

And here's the truth that settles in slowly: You weren't chasing the job.

You were chasing the feeling you thought the job would give you.

The milestone changes your environment. It does not automatically change your inner life.

That is not a failure.

It's just reality.

Growth is quieter than we imagined. You still have doubts.

You still have questions.

You still have moments of "Is this enough?"

But you handle it.

Less dramatic than you expected.

More solid than you realised.

Not fixed.

Not finished.

Just steadier.

And maybe that is Luxury Silk.

STRUCTURAL GAPS IN MELANIN-RICH SKIN

BY THE BEAUTY REPORTS

The aesthetics industry has grown rapidly over the past decade, yet many of its protocols remain historically centred on lighter skin tones. Individuals with melanin-rich skin often face unique challenges that are not fully addressed by standard treatments. The Founders of The Aesthetic Clinic UK (Dr Ifeoma Abajue and Dr Eyitope Ibare-Jones) have emphasised the importance of moving beyond generic skincare frameworks, noting that for too long, melanin-rich skin has existed in an aesthetics industry that was not structurally designed with it in mind.

This shift in perspective highlights the need for deeper research, personalised care, and clinical protocols that properly account for the biology of darker skin tones.

HISTORICAL GAPS IN RESEARCH

Much of the industry’s foundational research, product testing, and device calibration was developed for caucasian skin. Melanin-rich communities remain underrepresented in clinical trials and AI datasets, creating blind spots in treatment efficacy. This lack of representation contributes to inconsistent outcomes, misdiagnoses, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Improving research inclusion is essential for safer and more effective aesthetic treatments.

TAILORED CLINICAL PROTOCOLS ARE LIMITED

Many aesthetic protocols do not fully consider how melanin-rich skin responds to inflammation or treatment. One-size-fits-all approaches can trigger uneven pigmentation or exacerbate pre-existing skin concerns. Personalised screening, careful treatment planning, and an understanding of melanin biology are crucial to achieving consistent, longterm results.

AGE-SPECIFIC SKIN CARE MATTERS

As skin ages, biological changes affect hydration, elasticity, and pigmentation. Older women, in particular, need skincare strategies tailored to these shifts. Hydration and exfoliation remain critical, but product selection, frequency, and technique should be tailored to lifestyle, genetics, and skin history to maintain healthy, balanced skin.

UNDERSTANDING MELANOCYTE BEHAVIOUR

Melanocytes in melanin-rich skin function as a connected network, meaning that even subtle inflammation can lead to visible changes in pigmentation. Treatments that appear successful initially may later trigger new pigmentation beyond the treated area. Understanding these biological mechanisms allows for better prevention of uneven results

CREATING AN INCLUSIVE AESTHETIC EXPERIENCE

True inclusion in aesthetics goes beyond representation. It requires research, education, and personalised treatment approaches that respect the unique needs of melanin-rich skin. By integrating biology-informed protocols with patient-centred care, the industry can support healthy, radiant skin while empowering individuals to feel confident in their appearance.

Aesthetics inclusion must move beyond assumptions to evidence-based care. Treatments for melanin-rich skin should be informed by biology, clinical research, and personalisation. By prioritising representation, safety, and tailored approaches, the industry can ensure better outcomes, celebrate diverse beauty, and support confidence and self-expression in all skin tones.

WHY MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS ARE GREAT STRESS RELIEVERS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

In a world where conversations about wellness often revolve around diets, workouts, and mindfulness apps, one of the most powerful contributors to well-being is sometimes overlooked: friendship. For many people, friends become the support system that helps them navigate life’s pressures. They offer perspective during difficult moments, celebrate milestones, and create spaces where individuals can simply be themselves without judgment. These connections may seem ordinary on the surface, but their impact is far from small. In many ways, strong friendships act as a quiet form of therapy, a reminder that well-being is not only about personal habits but also about the relationships that shape our lives.

THE COMFORT OF BEING UNDERSTOOD

One of the most valuable aspects of friendship is the sense of being understood. True friends often recognise your moods, your worries, and your joys without the need for lengthy explanations. This emotional familiarity creates a space where people feel safe expressing themselves honestly. Whether it’s discussing career challenges, relationship issues, or everyday frustrations, conversations with close friends often bring relief that bottled-up emotions cannot.

THE WELLNESS OF SHARED EXPERIENCES

Many of life’s happiest memories are created with friends. From weekend outings to casual dinners and spontaneous trips, these shared experiences enrich everyday life. Beyond the enjoyment itself, these moments reinforce bonds and strengthen emotional connections. Over time, the memories formed through friendship become a source of comfort and nostalgia. They remind us that wellbeing is not only about achieving goals, but also about enjoying life along the way.

LAUGHTER AS EMOTIONAL MEDICINE

Friendships are not only about serious conversations. In fact, some of their greatest benefits come from moments of pure, uncomplicated joy. Shared jokes, spontaneous hangouts, and long conversations that drift from topic to topic all create moments of laughter and lightness. In stressful times, especially, laughter shared with friends can feel surprisingly therapeutic.

NURTURING THE FRIENDSHIPS THAT MATTER

Like any meaningful relationship, friendships require care and attention. Busy schedules, distance, and changing life circumstances can sometimes weaken connections if they are not nurtured. Making time to check in, share a meal, or simply spend time together helps keep friendships strong. Even small gestures, a message, a phone call, a thoughtful conversation, can reinforce bonds that support emotional well-being. Investing in friendships is, in many ways, investing in personal wellness.

SUPPORT DURING LIFE’S CHALLENGES

Life inevitably presents moments of difficulty, career setbacks, personal losses, and uncertainty about the future. During such periods, supportive friendships often become emotional anchors. Friends offer encouragement, perspective, and sometimes practical help when it is needed most. Their presence can make challenges feel less overwhelming and remind individuals that they are not facing life alone.

At its heart, wellness is about balance, physical, mental, and emotional. While exercise, rest, and nutrition are essential, the relationships we cultivate also shape our well-being in powerful ways. Friendships remind us that life is meant to be shared. They provide laughter during good times, support during difficult ones, and companionship throughout the journey.

TRAVEL

5 BREATHTAKING PLACES IN NIGERIA WORTH TRAVELLING TO

ERIN IJESHA WATERFALL

Erin Ijesha Waterfall, also known as Olumirin Waterfall, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Nigeria. It is located in Erin Ijesha town in Osun State and attracts many visitors every year. What makes this waterfall special is that it flows through seven different levels on the rocks. Visitors can climb through the different stages of the waterfall while enjoying the cool water and the peaceful natural surroundings. The sound of the flowing water and the green forest around the area create a calm and refreshing atmosphere.

YANKARI NATIONAL PARK

Yankari National Park is the largest wildlife park in Nigeria and one of the best places to experience nature and wildlife. It is located in Bauchi State and is home to many animals, including elephants, baboons, and antelopes. Visitors often go on safari drives where they can see these animals in their natural environment. The park also has many bird species, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

IDANRE HILLS

Idanre Hills is one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Nigeria. It is located in Idanre town in Ondo State and is known for its massive rock formations and historical significance. To reach the top of the hills, visitors must climb more than 600 ancient steps built into the rocks. Although the climb can be challenging, the view from the top is incredibly rewarding. At the top, visitors can see old buildings, shrines, and historic sites that reflect the culture and history of the Idanre people.

OBUDU MOUNTAIN RESORT

Obudu Mountain Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria. It is located on the Obudu Plateau in Cross River State and is known for its cool weather, beautiful mountains, and peaceful environment. The resort sits high above sea level, which gives visitors a refreshing climate and stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. One of the most exciting attractions at the resort is the cable car ride. As visitors travel up the mountain in the cable car, they get to see breathtaking views of the landscape below. The resort also has swimming pools, walking trails, and comfortable accommodation for visitors.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Nigeria is a country filled with beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and amazing travel destinations. While many people focus on travelling abroad, there are many breathtaking places within Nigeria that offer unforgettable experiences. From mountains and waterfalls to wildlife parks, these destinations show the natural beauty of the country. Here are five breathtaking places in Nigeria that are truly worth visiting.

AWHUM WATERFALL

Awhum Waterfall is one of the most peaceful and breathtaking natural attractions in Nigeria. It is located in Awhum town in Enugu State and is surrounded by beautiful hills and green vegetation. The waterfall drops from a high rock cliff, creating a stunning view and a refreshing atmosphere. One unique thing about Awhum Waterfall is that the water is believed by many visitors to have healing and spiritual significance. The area is also home to a monastery, which adds to the calm and quiet environment.

Nigeria has many beautiful places that travellers can explore. From the cool mountains of Obudu to the flowing waters of Erin Ijesha, the wildlife at Yankari, and the historic beauty of Idanre Hills, each destination offers something special. For anyone looking to discover the natural beauty of Nigeria, these breathtaking destinations are truly worth travelling to.

THE NEW SOCIAL LIFE How People Connect Today

The Rise of Digital Friendships

Social media and messaging platforms have expanded the idea of friendship beyond geographical boundaries. Conversations that once required physical presence now happen instantly through texts, voice notes, and video calls. Group chats have become virtual living rooms where jokes are shared, advice is given, and daily life unfolds in real time. For many people, these digital spaces provide a sense of belonging that transcends distance.

Redefining What Social Means

Perhaps the biggest change in social life today is how individuals define it. For some, socialising means attending events and meeting new people. For others, it may involve a quiet dinner with one trusted friend, hanging out or a long conversation over coffee. People are learning that meaningful relationships are not measured by numbers, but by depth and authenticity.

Quality Over Quantity

Interestingly, modern social life appears to be shifting away from large social circles toward smaller, more meaningful connections. Many people now prefer a few close friendships rather than maintaining wide but shallow networks. Busy schedules and professional commitments often make time a precious resource. As a result, people are becoming more intentional about how they spend their social energy. The emphasis is no longer on being everywhere, but on being present with the people who truly matter.

The Comfort of Hybrid Socialising

One unique feature of contemporary connection is the blend of digital and physical interaction. Friends may spend weeks communicating through messages and then finally meet for dinner, picking up conversations as if no time has passed. This hybrid style allows relationships to remain active even when life becomes busy. Connection no longer relies on constant physical presence; it adapts to people’s schedules and realities.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Not long ago, social life followed a familiar rhythm. Friends met at cafés, family gatherings filled weekends, and conversations stretched late into the evening without interruption from buzzing phones. Connection was largely physical and face-to-face. Today, the way people socialise has evolved dramatically. Technology, changing work patterns, and modern lifestyles have reshaped how friendships are formed, maintained, and experienced. Yet despite these changes, one thing remains constant: people still crave meaningful relationships. What has changed is the way those relationships take shape in the modern world.

Experiences Over Appearances

Another noticeable shift is the growing preference for experiences over formal social events. Instead of elaborate gatherings, many people now connect through shared activities, brunch, travel, fitness classes, or creative hobbies. These experiences provide natural opportunities for conversation and bonding. They also create memories that feel more authentic than carefully curated social media moments. Modern social life is increasingly about shared experiences rather than simply being seen.

As lifestyles continue to evolve, so will the ways people connect. Technology will introduce new platforms, work patterns will shift, and social habits will keep adapting. Yet at the heart of it all remains a simple truth: human beings are wired for connection. Whether through digital conversations, shared experiences, or quiet moments with close friends, relationships continue to shape our sense of belonging.

Simple Changes That Refresh Your Home Instantly

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

You don’t always need a renovation to fall back in love with your home. Sometimes, what a space truly needs is not demolition or redesign, but intention. Small, thoughtful changes can instantly completely shift how a room looks, feels, and functions. Whether you’re bored with your surroundings or simply craving a reset, these five practical updates prove that refreshing your home can be simple, affordable, and surprisingly satisfying.

REARRANGE BEFORE YOU REPLACE

Before spending money, move things around. Changing the layout of a room can dramatically improve flow and make your space feel brand new. Pull furniture slightly away from walls, swap side tables between rooms, or reposition seating to create better conversation areas. Rearranging allows you to see your home differently, often revealing that what you need was already there.

FIX THE LIGHTING

Lighting is one of the most overlooked elements in home decor. Harsh white bulbs can make even the most beautiful space feel cold. Switching to warm lighting instantly creates a softer, more inviting atmosphere. Add a table lamp or floor lamp to dark corners, and rely less on overhead lighting. Layered lighting makes a home feel intentional and lived-in.

DECLUTTER, THEN STYLE INTENTIONALLY

A cluttered space feels smaller, busier, and more stressful. Clear surfaces first, shelves, tables, and countertops, then restyle with purpose. Group items in odd numbers, vary heights, and leave breathing room. This approach doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it creates mental calm. A decluttered home always feels refreshed.

ADD LIFE THROUGH PLANTS, ART AND SCENT

Plants instantly bring warmth and life into a space, real or faux. Rearranging wall art or adding a mirror can also change how light moves through a room. Finally, introduce a signature scent using candles, diffusers, or fresh flowers. These sensory details elevate a home beyond visuals, making it feel welcoming and complete.

REFRESH SOFT FURNISHINGS

Soft elements like cushions, throws, rugs, curtains, and bed linens quietly define a room’s personality. Updating just one or two of these can change the entire mood. Try lighter fabrics for an airy feel or deeper tones for warmth. Mixing textures, linen, cotton, and knit, also adds depth without clutter. These are quick swaps with instant visual payoff.

Upgrading your bedroom doesn’t require breaking walls or spending too much money. Try these simple changes today and start transforming your space into a comfortable and stylish retreat you’ll love coming home to.

Career Moves That Look Small, But Change Everything

SPEAKING UP IN THE ROOM

It sounds simple. Contribute one idea. Ask one thoughtful question. Share one perspective during meetings. But visibility matters. When you consistently speak up even briefly, people begin to associate you with competence and confidence. Silence can sometimes be mistaken for disengagement, even when you’re capable. Over time, that small habit of participation positions you as someone who adds value, not just someone who occupies space.

LEARNING ONE NEW SKILL THAT COMPLEMENTS YOUR ROLE

You don’t need to master five certifications at once. But adding one relevant skill, whether it’s public speaking, data analysis, project management, or digital literacy, can significantly increase your professional value. The most powerful skills are often adjacent to your main role. They make you adaptable. And adaptability is what keeps careers resilient in changing industries.

BUILDING ONE STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP

Networking doesn’t have to mean collecting contacts. Sometimes, one meaningful professional relationship can open more doors than twenty shallow ones. Connecting intentionally with a colleague, mentor, or industry peer can shift your access to information, opportunities, and guidance. A single conversation can lead to collaboration, recommendation, or insight that changes your direction entirely. Depth often beats volume.

ASKING FOR FEEDBACK (EVEN WHEN IT’S UNCOMFORTABLE)

Growth requires clarity. Asking your supervisor, colleague, or mentor, “What could I improve?” might feel small or even awkward, but it fosters self-awareness. Constructive feedback reveals blind spots and sharpens performance. People who actively seek improvement are often seen as serious professionals. Over time, that mindset compounds into noticeable growth.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Growth doesn’t always arrive with a promotion letter. When people think of career breakthroughs, they imagine dramatic moments, a big promotion, a new job title, a salary jump, or a bold resignation. But in reality, most career transformations don’t begin with grand gestures. They start with quiet, strategic decisions that barely look significant at the time. The truth is, careers are rarely built in leaps. They are built in layers. And sometimes, the smallest adjustments create the biggest long-term shifts. Here are career moves that may look minor, but can completely change your trajectory.

SETTING BOUNDARIES EARLY

Many professionals believe saying “yes” to everything proves dedication. But constant availability can lead to burnout and reduced work quality. Setting healthy boundaries, whether around workload, communication hours, or responsibilities, protects your energy. When you manage your capacity wisely, you perform better and sustain momentum. Longevity in a career often depends on pacing, not pressure.

Big career shifts rarely announce themselves dramatically. More often, they begin quietly, in meetings, in conversations, in habits no one else notices yet. You don’t always need a bold reinvention. Sometimes, you need one intentional adjustment repeated consistently. Because the moves that look small today may be the ones that define your future tomorrow.

BON APPÉTIT

THE JOY OF EATING ALONE Rediscovering Solo Dining

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

For many people, dining is often seen as a social activity, something to be shared with friends, family, or colleagues. Restaurants are filled with groups celebrating birthdays, couples on dates, and coworkers unwinding after long days. In the middle of this lively atmosphere, however, there is another experience that is quietly gaining appreciation: eating alone. Solo dining once carried an unnecessary stigma. Sitting alone at a restaurant table was sometimes interpreted as loneliness or awkwardness. But perspectives are changing. Today, more people are discovering that eating alone can be surprisingly enjoyable, reflective, and even empowering.

A MOMENT OF PERSONAL FREEDOM

One of the greatest pleasures of eating alone is the freedom it offers. There is no need to compromise on restaurant choice, menu selection, or timing. You simply go where you want, order what you want, and eat at your own pace. This sense of independence can feel refreshing. Instead of coordinating schedules or negotiating preferences, solo diners are free to explore new cafés, restaurants, or street food spots whenever curiosity strikes.

PAYING ATTENTION TO THE FOOD

When dining with others, conversations often become the centre of attention. Plates arrive, bites are taken between sentences, and meals sometimes pass by almost unnoticed. Eating alone changes that rhythm. With fewer distractions, diners become more aware of the flavours, textures, and aromas of their meals. A well-seasoned dish, a perfectly cooked ingredient, or even the restaurant's atmosphere becomes easier to appreciate.

CONFIDENCE IN YOUR OWN COMPANY

Enjoying a meal alone can also build confidence. It signals a comfort with one’s own presence, the ability to sit, observe, and enjoy an experience without needing constant company. Rather than feeling selfconscious, many solo diners eventually find the experience liberating. They read, peoplewatch, listen to music, or simply enjoy the quiet moment.

A CHANCE TO EXPLORE NEW PLACES

Interestingly, solo diners often become more adventurous with their food choices. Without the influence of group preferences, they may feel more open to trying unfamiliar dishes or exploring new restaurants. A quick lunch break can turn into a discovery of a hidden café. A quiet dinner can become an opportunity to taste a cuisine you have never tried before.

TURNING MEALS INTO PERSONAL RITUALS

Over time, solo dining can evolve into a personal ritual. Some people dedicate weekend mornings to breakfast at their favourite café. Others enjoy occasional dinners alone to unwind after a demanding week. These quiet moments provide a rare opportunity to pause and reset. In a fast-paced world filled with noise and constant interaction, a peaceful meal alone can feel surprisingly restorative.

Food has always been about connection, but that connection need not always involve a crowd. Sometimes it is about reconnecting with yourself, your tastes, your pace, and your appreciation for simple pleasures. Solo dining reminds us that enjoying life’s experiences does not require waiting for company or special occasions.

cassy’s chronicles

THE BEST FRIEND AND I

Who travels all the way from Lagos to Calabar to get screwed? Me. And the crazy part? I’d do it again.

Demola wasn't my boyfriend, nor was he my ex. He was my ex’s best friend. There was no way Tunde would still be friends with Demola after what we did to him. We literally traumatised him, not like we wanted to, but life happens, and we kinda feel bad about it. But that's a long story, and one for another day.

Tunde had been perfect in every other way, sweet, attentive, always there when I needed him. But in bed? He tried so hard, kissing me softly, moving

slowly like he was afraid to break me. It was nice, but it left me starving for more, something raw and deep that hit spots I didn't even know existed. I never told him; how could I? Until Demola came along and shattered everything.

It started innocently enough. I noticed the way his eyes lingered on me, dark and hungry, when Tunde wasn't looking. Somehow, there was already a sexual tension between us. One night, Tunde was out late, and Demola showed up unannounced. We talked, laughed, and before I knew it, his lips were on mine. I didn't bother asking him why he did that. I kissed him back.

He didn't waste time. His hands gripped my hips, pulling me against him so I could feel how hard he was already. He was big everywhere, his shoulders broad, his arms corded with muscle, and when he stood to unzip his pants, I saw it. His cock sprang free, thick and veined, longer than Tunde's by far, the head already glistening.

I wanted him inside me so bad. He positioned himself between my thighs, rubbing the tip along my slick folds, teasing my entrance. He pushed in slowly at first, stretching me, filling me inch by inch until I was moaning, my nails digging into his back. Then he thrust hard, rough, pounding into me like he owned me. It was everything Tunde never gave; deep, brutal strokes that made my tits bounce and my lady bits clench around him. I was lost in it, and my body was on fire, when the door flew open.

It was Tunde. He stood by the door, frozen. My legs were still wrapped around Demola, and he was still halfway buried inside me. I couldn't even call out to him as he left in anger that night, because Demola had me in that haze. Demola pulled out, cursing under his breath, but the damage was done. My relationship ended that night.

After that night, nothing made sense anymore. Not me, not Demola, not what we had done. We didn’t even try to fix it. We just… disappeared from each other’s lives.

Or at least, that’s what I thought.

Months passed. I dated here and there, but no one scratched that itch. Then, out of nowhere, my phone buzzed with a message from him.

Demola, the Yoruba Demon himself, sliding back into my life. It was kind of weird after ghosting me for months, but I really didn't mind.

We texted for weeks. The conversation started normally. Old tension found its way back like it never left. Like it had just been waiting. Turns out he'd moved to Calabar for a new job, some engineering gig in the oil fields.

And somehow, in the middle of all that distance and everything we had already ruined… we decided to meet again.

To finish what we started.

I should have said no. But instead, I packed my bag. And for the first time in a long time… something felt certain. Calabar had never felt so right.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

GOAT

In this era of sports celebrities being paid the big bucks, it’s not surprising that a kid would want to become a star player. And by “kid,” I mean a young goat, of course. Sony Animation’s new effort concerns one such goat, Will, who aspires to play in the big leagues despite his small stature. (The title has an obvious double meaning.)

Inspired by Stephen Curry’s struggle to succeed despite numerous obstacles ( the basketball great serves as producer and has a small voice role) GOAT begins with a very young Will watching a game of roarball (a sort of everything-goes basketball, played by animals) and proclaiming to his mother (Jennifer Hudson) that it’s what he wants to do when he grows up.

Cut to the now-teenage Will (Caleb McLaughlin, Stranger Things alum) continuing to pursue his obsession to follow in the footsteps (or, more accurately, paws) of Jett Fillmore (Gabrielle Union), the flamboyant panther star player of his local team, the Vineland Thorns. Jett may be a star, but the Thorns definitely are not, suffering one losing season after another in part due to Jett hogging the ball and not being a team player.

Struggling to get by on his meagre income as a food delivery worker, Will finds his fortunes improving as a result of an impromptu pick-up game with the horse Mane Attraction (Aaron Pierre), a fearsome pro player. Will loses the game, but his skills and pluck result in his becoming a social media sensation. So much so that, much to Jett’s disgruntlement, the Thorns’ publicity-hungry owner, Flo (a very funny Jenifer Lewis), signs him to the team.

Will is considered a laughing stock at first because he’s a “small” in a game entirely populated by such “bigs” as his teammates, including an ostrich addicted to social media (Nicola

Coughlan); a Komodo dragon with a bizarre accent (Nick Kroll); a giraffe who’s lost his passion for the game (Curry); and a rhino (David Harbour) whose natural aggression has been tamped down since he became the father of twin daughters. Overseeing the hapless team is the proboscis monkey coach (Patton Oswalt), who doesn’t so much give pep talks as grief counselling sessions.

Will the plucky goat teach Jett how to be a team player? Will the Thorns overcome their difficulties and win the climactic championship game? Of course they will, and it’s no spoiler to say so about an animated movie geared toward kids. How it all happens is the fun part, especially as depicted in the wildly imaginative visuals that include diverse stadiums based on various ecosystems. There’s the Cave, in which the players have to dodge falling stalactites; the Inferno, sitting at the top of an active volcano; the frozen Cryosphere, where the game is played on ice and illustrated by the northern lights, and, well, you get the idea.

The hyperkinetic animation style, which bears no small similarity to Sony’s SpiderVerse hits, can be a bit relentless for adult viewers not steadily ingesting sugary substances. But the computer-generated images are undeniably dazzling and often very amusing in their depiction of the colourful anthropomorphic world populated by athletic animals of all types. Indeed, the film is better-looking than it is written, although there are funny takes on such things as hip-hop videos and cheesy sports promotional films. On the other hand, you have to suffer through such jokes as Will triumphantly announcing, “When there’s a will there’s a way!”

The voice performances — including cameos from such sports figures as Angel Reese, Kevin Love and Dwayne Wade — are consistently fine, with the standout being Wayne Knight as Will’s gerbil landlord, beleaguered by his ever-growing litter of pups.

Rating:7/10

Kids will love it

Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Youtube Music)

Our boy Mark Grayson is back on our screens.

The adventures of Invincible continue after the events of last season, where Mark faced down his first Viltrumite opponent outside of his alternate selves or his father.

After Eve’s almost death and dealing with the multiversal threat of Angstrom Levy pushing Mark to the edge, this season opens with Mark dedicated to dealing with threats in a more permanent way to make sure people are safe. The weight of being a hero is starting to overwhelm Mark in more ways than one. Eve has her own issues with her powers not working correctly, and Oliver has teen issues that feel reminiscent of Mark’s from earlier in the show. The rest of the family and the Guardians of the Globe also have a lot to deal with this season.

I feel some of the issues people have had with the animation in earlier episodes should be completely gone from people’s minds after watching this season. The movement is fluid, and action is just as dynamic as it’s ever been. The episodes are paced perfectly, taking the story from the comic and translating it into a series that, at times, I feel is better than the original comic. Being that Robert Kirkman is adapting his own work with Simon Racioppa, he has the benefit of hindsight.

All the voice performers from

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

Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, Gillian Jacobs, and J.K. Simmons carry most of the show’s dramatic heft in their performances this season. Their voice work anchors what we see in the animation very well and keeps your attention through all the crazy events happening. Seth Rogan as Allen the Alien, Jonathan Banks as Brit, and Zoey Deutch as Tech Jacket bring some great comedic timing and levity to the series

in different ways that cut the tension and give some good breathing moments. With much of the conflict focused on the Viltrumite War, the story balances Mark's stresses and troubles with Nolan’s redemption within the larger cosmos. Coming to a head with Nolan’s return to Earth, paying off a lot of the emotional threads from the season finale of the first season. It’s handled very well and is believable for the characters and the world. I feel Invincible season 4 takes the show to a higher level in terms of consistency and execution. It’s a series that stands out and is setting the bar for superhero comic adaptations. I’m really excited about season 5, and it can’t get here fast enough.