In sharp contrast to the Western modeling landscape, Nigeria, like many other African countries, has yet to attach a direct value to this profession. Despite regularly delivering amazing clothes, fashion creatives, entrepreneurs, style strategists, and designers frequently lack the finances to fairly reward fashion models for their efforts. For most models, it is best defined as a "work very hard, earn very little" scenario.
Given this context, few models regard modeling as a full-time career option unless they secure an opportunity with an international modeling agency and desire to break free from clichés to become a sought-after fit for designers worldwide. Others choose to see modeling as a pastime while doing another profession to supplement their income.
Despite their hard work and dedication, they are paid much less than their peers outside of Nigeria. According to speculations, GTCO Fashion Weekend and Lagos Fashion Week pay models slightly more than 200,000 NGN, which amounts to just USD 254.
A mono-seasonal approach is a distinguishing feature of the modeling process in Nigeria, particularly from the standpoint of designers. While innumerable incredible and breathtaking outfits dazzle Nigerian runways year after year, they frequently fail to represent specific seasons. This could be related to the fact that Nigeria has only one major fashion season show—the Guaranty Trust (GTCO) Fashion Weekend and the Lagos Fashion Week, which are both held during the same time frame and season. In contrast, particular collections matching the four major fashion seasons may be found overseas: Spring/Summer, Fall/Winter, Resort, and Pre-Fall.
To close the efficiency gap, the Nigerian fashion industry must prioritize each department and people in its organizational structure, ensuring they are sufficiently compensated to ensure the durability and security of their careers in Nigeria. Furthermore, designers and fashion houses can diversify their designs and offer showcase events including costumes well suited for each season in Nigeria, which includes Fall, Harmattan, and Heat.
Many countries outside of Africa attribute the survival of the fashion sector to the assistance of a proactive government that recognizes the fashion business as an efficient means of lowering unemployment and raising the country's GDP. If the Nigerian government takes a similar strategy, the mind-boggling discoveries that could emerge from this industry within the country could be unexpected.
BY: MOSES
