Elegbede Mansour Opeyemi, known on instagram with the handle @Cutees_oladayo is the creative director of the Cutees brand. Born and raised in Lagos, his roots trace back to Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Oladayo is a certified business educator who graduated from Olabisi Onabanjo University formerly Ogun state University. Oladayo is also the face behind the public group ADIRE TO THE WORLD and founder of ADIRE MARKET SQUARE with over 4000 members,500 vendors across Nigeria and 2 international recognitions.
He is one of the initiatives of FASHION2SCH, also named as “catch them young” a program set up to reach large number of kids, educating them that success is not centered in four wall of a classroom through vocational training (Adire making, bead making, hairstyling and many more)
His passion for fashion and unique style, influenced by nature and self-discovery, led to the creation of Cutees Clothing Brand. Specializing in wearable art primarily for men, the brand creates iconic looks rather than following trends.
Oladayo takes great joy in seeing his designs recreated, viewing it as a sign of progress and affirmation of the brand’s iconic status. When asked about the major challenges he faced in his business, he mentioned, “Many challenges, but I would make mention of one, which is ‘low credibility.’ This almost led to self-doubt, but with time and consistency, I overcame that.”
He acknowledges that starting a fashion design career is tough, especially without strong connections or financial backing. Oladayo advises aspiring designers to persevere and consistently show up to achieve success in the industry.
Vivian Ochiabuto, affectionately known as Viv, hails from the southern region of Nigeria. Her journey into music is fueled by a blend of personal experiences and an innate love for the art form. Despite obstacles, she’s grateful to finally pursue her passion professionally.
Her debut song, “Grind,” was recorded on August 29, 2023, and released on December 12, 2023. While she hasn’t dropped an album yet, she’s gearing up for its arrival soon.
Viv’s second song, “Peace of My Mind,” released on April 12, 2024, delves into themes of heartbreak. Drawing from her own experiences, she transformed pain into art, a testament to her resilience.
For Viv, music is more than a career—it’s an art form where personal experiences blend with imagination. Research and understanding market demand also shape her creative process.
Despite being new to the industry, Viv is overwhelmed by the love and support she receives from fans. Their unwavering encouragement is the highlight of her burgeoning career.
Looking ahead, Viv is working tirelessly on her EP, slated for release on or before September 2024. With her talent and determination, Vivian Ochiabuto is poised to make waves in the music world.
My name is Muyiwa Hassan, and I’m from Ibadan, Oyo State.
Tell us about your educational background and your profession:
I attended Mary Hill Convent School in Idi-Ape, Ibadan. For my junior secondary education, I went to Nickdel College, and I completed my senior secondary education at Westley College of Science in Elekuro, Ibadan. I then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. Additionally, I hold a degree in Investment Law from Adams State University in Colorado. Currently, I am working on my Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Sunderland.
Professionally, I am a farmer, a vocation that runs in my blood. My father was a prominent and successful farmer who held prestigious positions in agriculture at both state and national levels. Beyond academic qualifications, my passion has always been in agriculture. I aim to bridge gaps in wealth, address food shortages, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth. Agriculture offers a win-win scenario with low entry barriers, making it accessible even to those with limited education.
Are you the CEO of Mirth Agric Farms?
No, I am not the CEO of Mirth Agric Farms. I am one of the directors, taking over the family business that has been in existence for over 30 years. Mirth Agric Farms is not just an organization to me; it is my home, my family, my life, and my heritage. My role as a director has been pivotal in driving Mirth Agric Farm’s mission to provide agricultural resources and benefits, boost the economy, and establish the farm as a model for the continent. One of our main goals is to attract new people to agriculture and showcase its benefits, wealth, and endless opportunities.
What types of farm produce do you sell at Mirth Agric Farms?
At Mirth Agric Farms, we specialize in livestock production and sales.
What makes your farm produce unique or special compared to competitors?
Our farm produce is unique because we carefully select exotic breeds for breeding, ensuring superior quality. We focus on improving meat quality (carcass quality) and delivering farm produce at the highest level of quality and improvement.
What problem is Mirth Agric Farms here to solve?
Agriculture was once the bedrock of Nigeria’s economy before the oil boom. Mirth Agric Farms is committed to addressing the hunger and quality crisis in our country. We aim to enhance food security by providing high-quality meat and other farm produce. Our focus is on producing grass-fed, mixed-breed livestock for better breeding and consumption, creating employment opportunities, and improving the overall quality of agricultural products.
What are some of the challenges you face running your farm business in Nigeria and how have you been able to solve them so far?
Running a farm business in Nigeria comes with numerous challenges, including high feed costs, disease control, limited access to veterinary services, the need for improved breeds, and anti-grazing laws. To address these issues, Mirth Agric Farms has developed a 78-acre commercial paddock for livestock feeding, mitigating the impact of grazing land shortages and anti-grazing laws. Additionally, we are researching disease-resistant livestock varieties to enhance productivity and profitability for farmers. Our efforts benefit both existing and new farmers, positioning us as a model for improvement and guidance in the industry.
Nigeria’s Dinah Lugard emerged triumphant in the highly anticipated Hackathon 2024, hosted by Pydon Global. Besting over 100 participants from across Africa in the preliminary rounds, Lugard competed head-to-head with finalists from Tanzania and Senegal for the coveted top prize.
The virtual competition, spanning April and concluding on May 2nd, 2024, showcased Lugard’s exceptional skills as a White Hat Hacker, earning her not just the winner’s title but also recognition for delivering the most outstanding presentation.
As the champion, Lugard not only clinches the winner’s crown but also secures a $5000 cash prize and a scholarship to pursue studies in Artificial Intelligence at Harvard University, having amassed an impressive 2277 points. The second-place finisher, representing Senegal, earns a scholarship to study System Engineering anywhere in Africa with a total of 2044 points. Meanwhile, the third-place finisher from Tanzania receives a scholarship to study computer science at a Tanzanian University.
In the realm of cybersecurity, Dinah Lugard emerges as a steadfast advocate, emphasizing the critical importance of bolstering digital defenses against fraud and hacking. Expressing gratitude for the accolade, Lugard stated, “Cybersecurity is a way of life for me, not just a profession. That’s why I am dedicated to it.” Dinah also received a Master Hacker medal, adding, “Winning the competition automatically made me a ‘Master Hacker’.”
Acknowledging the risks inherent in the era of connectivity, Lugard’s initiative, ‘Cloud On SoberTech,’ takes center stage, highlighting the urgent need for online security. Through tailored content, it provides essential safeguards and a roadmap for safely navigating the digital landscape.
Meet Dr. Maxine Chinyere Okafor, a trailblazer in healthcare, driven by an unyielding dedication to aiding others. She isn’t merely a licensed DNP, PMHNP, and FNP—she’s a healer who harmonizes various methods, honoring the mind, soul, and spirit. Known affectionately as ‘Dr. O,’ she seamlessly integrates holistic, spiritual, and western medicine, guiding patients towards holistic wellness.
Beyond the confines of clinics, Dr. O is a co-founder of ’40 Days and 40 Nights,’ a global ministry centered on healing, deliverance, evangelism, and community outreach. Join her in this groundbreaking journey, transcending conventional boundaries, and spreading hope and restoration worldwide.
“My name is Dr. Maxine Chinyere Okafor, hailing from Umulowu, Amuzi Obowo in Imo state. Though born in Dallas, Texas, I now call the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, California, home—a city pulsating with energy and diversity, mirroring my approach to daily work.
My foray into healthcare, especially mental health, was kindled by an earnest desire to profoundly impact the silently suffering. Witnessing the toll of untreated mental illness within my family, particularly my aunt’s battle with schizophrenia, fueled my mission. Tragically, the absence of cultural understanding hindered her access to necessary support, leading to her premature demise.
Navigating my own traumas in a community where mental health was taboo underscored the pressing need for reform. Losing friends to mental health disorders highlighted the dearth of resources and support in our communities, reinforcing my resolve to effect change.
These experiences galvanized me to bridge the gap in mental health care, providing solace and healing where it’s desperately needed. Recognizing mental health’s parity with physical well-being, if not its precedence, fuels my determination to revolutionize healthcare. My aim is to dismantle barriers, challenge stigmas, and ensure equitable access to compassionate care.
As a healer, I’ve encountered numerous challenges, each a testament to the resilience demanded in this noble pursuit. One significant obstacle was the stigma surrounding the fusion of mental health and spirituality, often breeding resistance and misunderstanding.
Guided by unwavering faith and bold conviction, I embarked on a transformative journey, integrating mental wellness into holistic care. Despite facing backlash for incorporating prayer into patient care, I persevered, believing in holistic healing encompassing body, mind, and spirit.
Mental health struggles extend beyond clinical settings, entrenched in hearts and minds, perpetuating misconceptions. Fueled by divine inspiration, I relentlessly pursued holistic mental wellness, educating and empowering others to embrace faith and healing’s transformative power.
Through unwavering commitment, I’ve shattered barriers, founding The Perfect Prescription Medical Services Pc, dedicated to integrative mental health and wellness. Additionally, I’ve initiated mental health first aid programs within churches, fostering supportive communities.
I’ve not only transformed lives but also shifted paradigms, bridging the gap between mental health and spirituality with faith, determination, and a vision rooted in holistic well-being.
‘The Power of Rejection’ isn’t just a book—it’s my testament to overcoming life’s challenges. Inspired by my journey, I embarked on a bold 90-day challenge, where rejection became my teacher.
Can you imagine seeking rejection daily? It was a radical approach turning every ‘no’ into a stepping stone toward my purpose. I’m writing this book to empower others to rise above setbacks and emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient.
To those inspired by my journey, embrace your purpose with unwavering belief. The path to becoming a healer may not be smooth, but it’s the twists that shape us into compassionate practitioners. Stay anchored in passion, remain curious, and never stop learning. Healing begins with authenticity and ends with love. Your calling is to transform lives and leave an indelible mark on the world. Step forward boldly—the world awaits your light.
In an exclusive interview, Ukrainian artist Shadu opened up about her transformative musical direction and the potential resurgence of her renowned fashion videos. Renowned for her viral TikTok fashion content, Shadu now ventures into the realms of DJing, expanding her artistic repertoire.
Embracing synth pop and electro pop, Shadu elucidated her motivation for incorporating DJing into her musical endeavors. Her aspiration to transcend boundaries and captivate a global audience mirrors the success of Ukrainian icons like Artbat, propelling her towards a fusion of DJing and vocals.
With her songs gracing international charts, Shadu acknowledges the influx of appreciation from fans worldwide. Undeterred by past achievements, she remains committed to crafting innovative, quality music, driven by a desire to continually engage and captivate her audience.
Renowned for her distinct fashion sense, Shadu divulged the intricacies behind her unique style. Collaborating with director Aisha Milevskaya, she pioneers bespoke designer outfits, challenging societal norms and advocating for inclusivity in fashion beyond conventional standards.
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, Shadu envisions artists as beacons of unity amidst uncertainty. Advocating for shared human experiences, she emphasizes music’s transformative power to foster connection and illuminate commonalities in an increasingly divided world.
Despite recent geopolitical turmoil, Shadu’s followers clamor for the return of her iconic fashion content. Amidst adversity, she views fashion as a conduit for positivity, vowing to elevate her videos to new heights by seamlessly intertwining music and style.
Shadu’s narrative epitomizes resilience and reinvention in the face of adversity. As she embarks on a musical odyssey transcending borders and genres, her commitment to unity through creativity resonates as a beacon of hope in tumultuous times.
Kelvin Ikpon, widely known by his stage alias Baanty, entered the world on June 27, 1997, in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria. Growing up amidst Delta State’s rich cultural backdrop, Baanty’s early years were steeped in the vibrant melodies of Nigerian music and the values instilled by his family, particularly his mother, whose love and commitment laid the groundwork for his strong work ethic.
Since childhood, Kelvin drew inspiration from the diverse sounds of Nigerian music legends like Ayaka Ozubulu, Onyenze Nwa Amobi, Bright Chemezie, and the iconic King Sunny Ade. However, it was the revolutionary ethos of Fela Kuti, the timeless tunes of King Sunny Ade, and the contemporary flair of Burna Boy that deeply impacted his musical journey.
Baanty’s interests extended beyond music, encompassing singing, travel, and strategic games like chess and snooker. He showcased a multifaceted persona in fashion and real estate, demonstrating a discerning eye for trends and a penchant for innovation.
Philanthropy became a cornerstone of Kelvin’s mission. He actively participated in initiatives focused on youth empowerment and educational support in his community, including programs for music education, scholarships for disadvantaged students, and initiatives for youth entrepreneurship and skills development. His tracks “Delta Groove,” “My Love,” and “Journey Home” remain beloved by fans.
Looking forward, Kelvin envisions a future where collaboration and mentorship drive musical innovation and empowerment. He plans to curate collaborative endeavors that celebrate cultural diversity while fostering unity within the Nigerian music industry and beyond. Additionally, Baanty is dedicated to establishing a music education and mentorship program, aiming to equip aspiring musicians with the skills and knowledge necessary for success.
Baanty’s journey as a musician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist epitomizes his steadfast commitment to shaping the Nigerian music landscape and creating a positive impact in his community and beyond.
Angelo Di Guardo, the multi-talented Italian artist, has been making waves in the music industry from Paris to worldwide recognition. Born in Italy with a passion for music, Angelo’s journey from a young performer to an award-winning artist is nothing short of inspiring.
Musical Beginnings and Inspirations
From his early years, Angelo was drawn to the magic of music. Starting with performances at the tender age of 2 or 3, he quickly fell in love with the stage. His musical education spanned various genres, from classical opera to jazz and pop. Inspired by legends like Maria Callas and modern icons such as Beyoncé, Angelo’s diverse influences shape his unique sound.
Record-breaking Achievements and Collaborations
Angelo’s dedication to his craft has led to remarkable milestones. His collaboration with Mark on the song “Ci sono anch’io” garnered over 500,000 streams on Spotify, earning him an Award of Recognition. With nearly 1 million views and counting, the track stands as a testament to his growing influence in the industry.
International Acclaim and Creative Ventures
Beyond music, Angelo’s talent extends to the silver screen. His production of musical short films, including “Biancaneve,” has received acclaim at film festivals worldwide. From India to the United States and China, his work has captivated audiences and earned prestigious awards.
The Heart of Inspiration
For Angelo, inspiration is drawn from life’s experiences and musical idols. From the grandeur of Mozart to the soulful rhythms of Aretha Franklin, his influences are as diverse as his repertoire. With upcoming projects ranging from original albums to Disney-inspired piano impressions, Angelo continues to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
A Journey of Growth and Dreams
As he reflects on his journey, Angelo remains committed to his passion for music. With projects in the pipeline, including a self-written album and a musical short film, he embraces the thrill of creation and the joy of sharing his art with the world.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
To those following in his footsteps, Angelo offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: chase your dreams relentlessly. Let your voice be heard, imbued with sincerity and authenticity. In the pursuit of artistry, staying true to oneself is the key to enduring success.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, Angelo Di Guardo stands as a shining example of talent, perseverance, and boundless creativity. As he continues to make his mark on the world stage, one thing is certain: the journey of this Italian sensation is only just beginning.
In a much-anticipated comeback after a decade-long hiatus, the immensely talented GT Da Guitarman returns to the music scene with his latest creation, the EP titled “Elody.”
Out on digital streaming platforms today, this dynamic EP guarantees fans an electrifying musical experience, featuring standout tracks like ‘Flaws,’ ‘Special,’ and ‘Congratulations ( Ariwo)’ that promise a unique journey into GT’s musical world.
Unveiling a Decade of Dedication
Reflecting on the inspiration behind “Elody,” GT Da Guitarman shares, “With ‘Elody,’ I mark my comeback to the music world after ten years. This five-track EP symbolizes my unwavering dedication to my craft and my everlasting presence in the industry. It’s a testament to my enduring commitment to creating music, reaffirming my passion even in 2024.”
Collaborative Exploration with Exceptional Producers
Collaborating with renowned producers like Gospel on the Beats, Team Skrippo, and Music Camp, GT Da Guitarman embarked on a profound musical journey, resulting in a deeply introspective exploration of self-discovery. Each track encapsulates personal experiences, blending soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics.
Stories Behind the Melodies
Delving into the inspiration behind the EP’s tracks, GT Da Guitarman states, “Each song narrates personal reflections and observations, capturing moments of joy, heartache, and triumph. ‘Congratulations,’ also known as ‘Ariwo,’ holds personal significance as it serves as a wake-up call to pursue my passion for singing. ‘Flaws’ explores the essence of love, embracing imperfections while striving for improvement. ‘No Evidence,’ born from a collaborative session at Skrippo camp, stands out as an Amapiano joint challenging investigations into one’s character.”
Expectations for the Future
Expressing expectations for the EP, GT shares, “My expectations for the new EP are centered on showcasing that GT is forever young and capable of reinventing himself. I possess abilities beyond my understanding, delving into deeper layers of myself and reinventing the GT brand to resonate more with Gen Z.”
Mesmerizing Audiences with “Elody”
“Elody” EP promises to captivate audiences with its soul-stirring melodies and profound lyrical narratives, solidifying GT Da Guitarman’s status as a musical maestro in the Nigerian music industry. Get ready for a musical journey that transcends time and expectations. GT Da Guitarman’s return is not just a comeback; it’s a musical rebirth.
Listen and enjoy GT Da Guitarman’s new EP titled “ELODY”.
The real estate market in Lagos, Nigeria has seen both ups and downs in the first half of 2023. While some sectors like residential and commercial real estate have shown signs of recovery from the pandemic slowdown, others like the retail sector continue to struggle. Here is an in-depth look at the major trends shaping Lagos’ real estate landscape.
The residential housing market in Lagos has shown significant signs of rebound after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years. According to leading real estate services firm Knight Frank, average rents for high-end apartments in Lagos rose by 13% in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period last year 1. A major factor driving this trend is the return of expatriates and skilled Nigerian professionals moving back to the city due to relaxation of pandemic restrictions. Additionally, with the uptick in economic activities, demand for rental apartments has outstripped supply which has led to upward pressure on rents.
However, the rate of increase has not been uniform and has varied across neighborhoods. For instance, prime neighborhoods like Ikoyi and Victoria Island registered the steepest rent increases of 19% and 17% respectively in H1 2023 while suburbs like Lekki and Ikeja saw more modest single-digit growth 2. This underscores the preference among high-income urban professionals for centrally located apartments in mature neighborhoods with well-developed infrastructure and amenities.
On the other hand, the sales market for residential properties has been slightly more muted as buyers and investors adopt a cautious approach owing to high mortgage rates and the upcoming elections. Regardless, increased demand from first-time homebuyers and diaspora Nigerians investing in real estate back home has helped sustain sales volumes in the first half of 2023 3.
Overall, residential real estate in Lagos displays underlying demand and growth drivers despite some headwinds. With the elections out of the way, experts predict both rents and housing prices could see faster growth in 2023 H2 barring any unforeseen disruption 45.
Commercial Real Estate
The pandemic had sparked concerns that demand for office space in Lagos could drop significantly as remote work became prevalent. However, H1 2023 has seen robust leasing activity dispelling many of those apprehensions. Total office space absorption in Lagos during the first half crossed 100,000 sqm, already surpassing the full-year 2022 figure 6. Many corporates have been migrating from less desirable business districts like the mainland to premium offices in Victoria Island and Ikoyi to better attract talent. For instance, Amazon recently leased 10,000 sqm of grade A office space in Victoria Island for its Nigerian headquarters 7.
However, vacancy rates still remain elevated at 20% on average across Lagos, as per JLL estimates, due to the glut of new office developments over the past few years 8. This surplus of supply has kept rent growth relatively modest at around 2-5% in prime buildings and locations during H1 2023 compared to 15-18% growth for high-end residential apartments over the same period 9.
Looking ahead, absorption is expected to remain strong driven by local and multinational firms focused on return-to-office plans. However, rising interest rates could defer some construction projects planned over the next few years until market conditions stabilize.
Retail Real Estate
The retail and shopping center segment has been the laggard, struggling to regain traction after the pandemic. Mall vacancy rates remain at a high of around 25% with low investor appetite for new developments 10. Rental declines have also persisted, with prices dropping 5-10% in H1 2023 relative to the preceding six months according to Broll Nigeria 11.
This lackluster performance is tied to still weak consumer spending and footfalls as high inflation has eroded purchasing power and dampened demand. Retailers have also been cautious about expanding outlet networks in this environment. Until macroeconomic conditions improve significantly, the retail segment is likely to underperform compared to commercial and residential real estate.
Industrial Real Estate
One bright spot has been industrial real estate, with demand for warehousing and logistics facilities surging over 15% in the first half of 2023 compared to a year ago 12. This demand has been propelled by large e-commerce firms like Jumia and international third-party logistics players who have set up distribution hubs around Lagos to achieve faster deliveries to customers. Limited availability in prime locations is creating a scarcity which has driven warehouse rents up by 20-25% over the past year 13.
Several new entrants are also expected to enter this segment given substantial room for modern warehousing and storage facilities to still develop across Lagos. The growth prospects for industrial real estate thus remain highly promising in line with the rapid evolution of Nigeria’s logistics sector.
Key Factors Affecting Outlook
As seen above, Lagos’ real estate market has made a reasonably strong recovery in H1 2023 despite some lingering sector-specific issues. However, experts highlight some downside risks that could derail momentum in the coming months 14:
Persistently high inflation and interest rates weigh on consumer and business sentiment
Potential currency devaluation and wider economic volatility around February elections
Ongoing security challenges especially in remote areas across Lagos state
Rapid construction growth in previous years creates oversupply in some sectors
That said, if the elections proceed smoothly without major upheaval, the city’s underlying demand drivers and demographics should sustain real estate’s growth trajectory. Continued infrastructure development and foreign investment will also be key to unlocking Lagos’ massive potential as Africa’s preeminent commercial hub.
