Top Nigerian Fashion Designers making millions

By Aderinola Abimbola

The Nigerian fashion industry is fast becoming a globally-recognized sector, generating billions and providing employment for millions of Nigerians daily.

In 2019, it was recorded tat the industry experienced a 17% growth rate, leading to more people being employed and earning a living from it.

Over the years, we have seen Fashion in Nigeria evolve and own its uniqueness, but there are some top designers who constantly stand out, even on a global stage.

Here are some of the top Nigerian fashion designers making millions:

1. Toyin Lawani of Tiannah’s Empire

Toyin Lawani, is a Nigerian celebrity, fashion designer. Her brand, Tiannah’s Place Empire, is a group compromising 33 businesses. Lawani is famous for serving as a costume designer for several Nollywood blockbusters like King of Boys: The Return of the King and Shanty Town. Lawani has multiple fashion streams of income, including fashion design, a fashion school, reality TV appearances, and extensive influencer marketing.

2. Lisa Folawiyo

Another Nigerian designer changing the fashion game is Lisa Folawiyo. The designer who initially studied law  in Unilag started her fashion home in 2005. She has however, grown to the global stage, winning awards like the Africa Fashion Award. In 2012 she was also featured in Vogue Italia.

3. Mai Atafo

Ohimai Atafo popularly known as Mai Atafo is a famous Nigerian Fashion Designer known for his brand, Mai Atafo. He established his brand in 2010 after quitting his job as a Brand Manager. In 2011, Mai Atafo Inspired introduced a wedding line called “Weddings by Mai, and has since then enjoyed global recognition. He was awarded as the Designer of the Year by Glitz Style Awards in 2013.

4. Veekee James

Ruth Erikan James popularly known as Veekee James is the is the founder of Veekee James, a Nigerian fashion brand. Established In 2019, her brand quickly grew to become on of Nigeria’s biggest brands. In 2022, she won the AMVCA and the Hercomony Awards as the Best Fashion Designer of the year.

5. Deola Sagoe

Deola Sagoe is an haute couture Nigerian designer who has constantly remained a top earner in the industry. Sagoe began designing in 1989 and has gained international recognition for her designs.

These Nigerian designers have achieved high earnings and global recognition over the years by maintaining their uniqueness and spreading the clientele reach. They have also  greatly contributed to the country’s economy while creating employment opportunities for enthusiasts.