Editorial

Celebrating Father’s Day is all about showing appreciation for the hard-working and caring fathers in our lives who give so much to us. At Ekpo Magazine, we’ve curated a thoughtful list of Father’s Day gift ideas to help you find the perfect present for the dad in your life. Often, fathers won’t give a direct answer when asked what they’d like for their birthdays, let alone for Father’s Day. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to point you towards some thoughtful yet affordable options you might not have considered. These gifts may not be extravagant, but they are intentional and sure to be appreciated. Here are five fantastic Father’s Day gift ideas. Speaker You’d be surprised by how many men would love to receive a speaker as a gift. They might not even realize they want one until they get it. Whether for early morning motivation or late-night relaxation, a speaker is a versatile and appreciated gift. The Altec Lansing Mini waterproof Bluetooth speaker is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for the shower or anywhere else he might want to enjoy his favorite tunes. Slides A fresh pair of slides is something any guy would appreciate, and fathers are no exception. Ideal for casual summer strolls or quick trips around the neighborhood, the Under Armour slide is a fantastic Father’s Day gift. They come in a variety of colors, so you’re sure to find a pair that suits his style. Clipper If he doesn’t already have one, a new clipper can be a much-appreciated gift for any father. This bestseller is currently on discount and selling fast, so don’t hesitate to grab one for a dad you want to show appreciation for. He’ll love the practicality and thoughtfulness of this gift. Mug While it might seem cliché, a “World’s Best Dad” mug still makes a great Father’s Day gift. Not only will he use it daily, but it also lets everyone around him know he’s the best dad in the world. It’s a simple yet heartfelt way to show your appreciation. Perfume Last but certainly not least, consider getting him some perfume. There are countless scents to choose from, but the key is to select a unique fragrance that’s noticeable without being overpowering. The Parfum Belcam scent is a great option. A carefully chosen perfume can make him feel special and appreciated every day. With these five Father’s Day gift ideas from Ekpo Magazine, you’re sure to find something that will make any father feel loved and valued. Happy Father’s Day!

In an age where the reading culture is waning and attention spans are shrinking, it’s more important than ever to remember that books hold invaluable secrets for success, especially for the self-employed and creative entrepreneurs. Despite the vast amount of information available online, the discipline of reading or listening to a book can keep you ahead of the curve. At Ekpo, we believe in holistic lifestyle development, which is why we’ve curated a list of five essential books Every young creative entrepreneur should read. These books will provide the insights you need to kickstart your creative career. DotCom Secrets “DotCom Secrets” by Russell Brunson is a masterclass in building a successful online business through marketing funnels. Brunson covers how to attract an online audience using email marketing, maximize profits with value ladders, and offer precise scripts for crafting sales videos. Key takeaways include discovering your ideal customer, mastering marketing funnels, understanding the art of the value ladder, developing an engaging brand character, and utilizing proven copywriting templates. The 4-Hour Workweek Timothy Ferriss’ “The 4-Hour Workweek” revolutionizes the concept of “lifestyle design,” challenging the traditional path of working hard for decades before retirement. Ferriss advocates for eliminating inefficiencies and outsourcing tasks to reduce your workweek to just four hours, allowing more time for the pursuits that truly matter. Atomic Habits “Atomic Habits” by James Clear delves into the science of habit formation, showing how small changes can lead to significant results. Clear explains how both good and bad habits shape our routines and provides strategies for building positive habits while breaking negative ones, ultimately enhancing productivity and success. Hustle Like a West African “Hustle Like a West African” by Zamzar captures the relentless entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic inherent to West Africa. The book’s title reflects the determination and drive typical of the region, offering inspiring insights and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to infuse their endeavors with this resilient mindset. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Stephen R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is a cornerstone for personal and professional growth. Covey’s seven habits—ranging from proactive thinking to prioritization, effective communication, collaboration, and continuous self-improvement—provide a comprehensive framework for achieving success in all areas of life. Armed with the wisdom from these books for young creative entrepreneurs and a proactive approach to applying their lessons, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in your creative entrepreneurial journey.

In this article, Ekpo picks out some of the finest contemporary stores the vibrant city of Lagos has to offer. Home to some of the major creative hubs in Nigeria and West Africa, the most populous city in Nigeria is not only the economic capital but also its fashion and clothing capital. Here are some of our best picks for contemporary garment offerings. from stocking some of the most popular Nigerian streetwear brands to lesser known sleek ready-to-wear steals, you are sure to find cool contemporary clothes to buy. Consider this your Lagos contemporary ready-to-wear shopping guide. Here are 5 contemporary stores in Lagos that every guy should know. ALTÈ 51 Nestled in the heart of the Lekki Peninsula, ALTÈ 51 is a hotspot for Nigerian streetwear. Despite being established only about a year ago, this alternative clothing supply and marketplace has quickly become a go-to destination. It stocks some of the hottest Nigerian streetwear brands, including MAK (Man-Acquired Knowledge), Xela Cartel, WAF, David Blackmoore, WBF Dubai, and more. If you’re looking to dive into the vibrant street fashion scene, ALTÈ 51 should be your first stop. SEVERE NATURE SEVERE NATURE is more than just a store; it’s a community-led brand and concept store that embodies the spirit of Lagos youth culture. Located strategically on Ikoyi Alexander Avenue, this store is a hub for streetwear enthusiasts. It draws in the youth not only with its versatile product offerings but also with its cultural appeal. The branded store is known for its vibrant community of fashion-forward individuals, making it a must-see when you’re in town. HAMIR THE STORE Situated in Yaba, one of the major commercial spots on the mainland, HAMIR THE STORE offers a comprehensive wardrobe solution for fashionable men. This urban fashion and lifestyle store has an extensive range of products at reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking for hats, shoes, belts, shades, or bags, HAMIR THE STORE has you covered. It’s the perfect place to find everything you need to stay stylish without breaking the bank. GARM ISLAND GARM ISLAND, located in Ajao, Lagos, is your one-stop-shop for all things fashion. This store caters to every aspect of a stylish man’s wardrobe. With its Garm Fitness and Garm Formal sub-labels, it offers specialized options for sports and fitness wear, as well as men’s formal clothing. Whether you need a sharp suit for a business meeting or athletic gear for your workout, GARM ISLAND has solutions for all your wardrobe needs. CRUX Last but certainly not least, CRUX is a branded store located in Lekki that has evolved from being known for its accessories to becoming one of the biggest urban unisex fashion stores in town. CRUX stands out in the market with its edgy fashion options at moderate prices. It has very little competition when it comes to being a go-to store for contemporary fashion. If you want to stay ahead of the trends without completely emptying your wallet, CRUX is the place to visit. Exploring these Lagos fashion stores will not only keep you stylish but also connect you with the vibrant fashion culture that defines this dynamic city. From streetwear to formal attire, these stores offer everything you need to elevate your fashion game.

NWOSU Official is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in the Nigerian male high-fashion space. Championed by popular media personality Enioluwa and fashion content producer Eniafè Momodu this androgynous, gender-fluid fashion brand has been dressing the contemporary, stylish Nigerian man for a while now. It’s time to highlight the unique flair that NWOSU Official brings to the fashion industry. The brand, known for its flamboyant, edgy, and statement-making designs, caters to men who are unafraid to stand out. Each piece from NWOSU Official is crafted to make a bold statement, reflecting confidence and individuality. Its founder and creative director, Ikechukwu Nwosu Jr, perfectly embodies the ethos of the brand. Demonstrating his commitment and vision, Ikechukwu even modeled the lookbook for an entire collection—the N’1 “This is Us” collection—all by himself, presenting his ideal image of the red carpet man. NWOSU Official’s influence is seen in various memorable style moments. The brand was responsible for the costume styling in Zinolesky’s music video and designed a custom look for Larry Hector at the AMVCAs, showcasing its versatility and creative prowess. Enioluwa for NWOSU Official represents the brand’s ability to resonate with fashionable, forward-thinking individuals. while also taking references from traditional motifs and textiles. Alongside Eniafè Momodu, these influencers help bring NWOSU Official’s vision to a broader audience, solidifying its place in the high-fashion industry. with very little backstory on the brand, the focus is mainly on cultivating a vibrant community of like-minded men. This androgynous Nigerian brand is not just about fashion; it’s about making a statement and embracing a unique style that defies conventional norms.

We’ve put together a list of Nigerian Albums we are excited for in 2024. These are in no way the only relevant albums released (or to be released) in 2024 by Nigerian artists, but these projects have undeniably caught the attention of many worldwide.Every year has been better than the last over the last 6 years for African artists, Nigerian artists, and Afrobeats as a whole. But we wouldn’t dare try to classify the creative prowess of any of these artists in this category, as they have openly shunned any form of genre restriction. Perhaps no one in this category would subscribe to being called “Afrobeats” artists. Wizkid even went as far as saying he’s not “Afro-anything”, during a rant on his Instagram story earlier this year. Other artists may have gone that far, but it’s very clear that they hate the idea of genre restrictions. The award shows are picking up the memo, with the likes of BET and THE GRAMMY’s, nominating African artists in categories they have previously been segregated from. That being said, let’s highlight some of the most exciting musical projects from Nigerian artists in 2024. AYRA STARR “THE YEAR I TURNED 21” For her sophomore studio album, titled “The Year I Turned 21,” the celestial being releases her highly anticipated project, filled with a wonderful display of her sonic maturity and literal coming of age. Followed by a viral campaign, the packed 15-song, 40-minute body of work, features acts from Seyi Vibes, Asake, Milar, Gideon, Coco Jones, and others. With smooth transitions, infectious flow, and an undeniable aura, Ayra glides over the tracks to the delight of her fans worldwide. The album gained over 6 million first-day streams on Spotify alone. TEMS “BORN IN THE WILD” What a time to be alive for female African artists. Tems has been ahead of the game for a while now, but this year saw our African queens soar to new heights, with the South African breakthrough global sensation “Tyla” leading the charts. Tems isn’t far behind, aside being nominated for video director of the year at the 2024 BET’s, she is set to make headlines once more with the release of her highly anticipated album “Born in the wild”. Her first full length album is poised to shake the world. Featuring only Askae and J.Cole, she has us all under her spell, with her one-in-a million vocals and stardom persona. WIZKID “MORAYO” Award-winning super star, record breaker, and most recently, cyber bully. Wizkid has many personalities but being a don has always been constant. After his recent back-and-forth squabble with fellow Nigerian superstar “Davido” on X, the essence singer announced an upcoming project dedicated to his mother to be released soon titled “morayo”. Prior to the online beef, Wizkid had made subtle nudges to the project, but it had now been confirmed In a video with the artist speaking about the project. There is no confirmed release date or track list for “Morayo” and given wizkid’s previous track record, we might want to take morayo’s 2024 release with a pinch of salt. VICTONY “STUBBORN” Que is the leader of the stubborn FC. If you’ve been paying close attention to the Nigerian Afro fusion scene, it’ll be hard to miss the presence of this extremely talented singer/songwriter. His critically acclaimed single “Soweto” put him in the global spotlight and he doesn’t look like backing down any time soon. Fresh from the release of his single with Asake, “Stubborn,” we witness the artist rebrand himself for the roll-out of the album, also called “Stubborn.”. The leader of the outlaws, embraces a medieval grudge persona for this era, and we are very excited for the evolution of his unique sound. OMAH LAY-TBA (TO BE ANNOUNCED) Last but not least, omah lay. With a sound that some fans have termed “Afro emo”, omah lay is set to explore his sound even more with his upcoming project. There is very little information on the project, and there is no confirmed name for it, but It has been confirmed by the artist that his last single, “Holy Ghost,” is off the project.

Roots: Made in Africa Fashion Industry Pop-Up Tour LHAUDE Africa is proud to present a groundbreaking initiative designed to unite the diverse and dynamic world of African fashion. Introducing the ‘ROOTS: Made in Africa’ pop-up tour, a series of events aimed at fostering deeper connections, promoting knowledge exchange, and enhancing visibility among African fashion stakeholders. This innovative program is set to create a vibrant platform for creative businesses, brands, professionals, investors, industry leaders, and government representatives to engage in meaningful business-to-business (B2B) networking, forge lucrative deal-making opportunities, and drive product sales. The inaugural edition of this travelling pop-up program has been developed in collaboration with Ace Avenue Agency, an Accra-based fashion business consultancy. Known for its mission to develop world-class African fashion brands through strategic retail operations Ace Avenue Agency is the perfect partner to launch this ambitious venture. “ROOTS is more than a series of pop-ups,” says Rhoda Aguonigho, the visionary founder of Lhaude Africa. “It’s a celebration of Africa’s vibrant creativity and a bridge connecting African artisans, businesses, and consumers across the continent. Through Pan-African trade and collaboration, we can not only showcase the brilliance of Made-in-Africa products but also foster a thriving ecosystem that empowers Africa’s creative spirit.” Rhoda Aguonigho Elorm Amankwa, the founder of Ace Avenue Agency, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of pan-African collaboration in driving growth and advancement. “One of the values of my agency is to lean into pan-African collaboration,” she shares. “We believe that is where actual growth and advancement occur. That’s why we were so excited to collaborate with Lhaude on ROOTS Ghana. Not only are we looking forward to engaging with the Nigerian and Ghanaian brands that are coming on board, but we are excited about the B2B and B2C opportunities that this event is going to bring. We can’t wait to see the next steps the brands take afterward because we know that ROOTS is going to open so many doors for them.” Elorm Amankwa The first stop of the ROOTS tour will be in Accra, Ghana, from June 7th to 9th, 2024. This 3-day gathering is poised to host fashion stakeholders from across Africa and the diaspora offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the continent’s finest fashion design talents and engage with leading voices through insightful panel discussions. ROOTS plans to extend its reach to Johannesburg and Nairobi later in the year, and the event promises to be a highlight of the 2024 African fashion calendar. Day 1: Welcome, Showcases and Networking The event will kick off with a grand opening ceremony, welcoming participants and setting the tone for the days ahead. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers, meet industry leaders, and explore the exhibition area, showcasing a diverse range of African fashion brands. This initial day is all about laying the foundation for meaningful connections and collaborations that will drive the industry forward. Day 2: Panel discussions and Showcases The second day will be dedicated to a series of panel discussions and workshops led by some of the most vibrant voices in the African fashion industry. Topics will range from sustainable fashion practices and innovative design techniques to market expansion strategies and the future of African fashion on the global stage. These sessions are designed to provide valuable insights and practical knowledge that attendees can apply to their own businesses. Day 3: Creative tour The final day of the ROOTS event will feature a creative tour for the participating brands, exposing them to the vibrant Ghanaian creative community. This will be an opportunity for brands to network, interact, and share ideas with the creative eco-system in Ghana in a conducive, unfiltered environment. The event will conclude with a closing ceremony, celebrating the success of the inaugural ROOTS pop-up and setting the stage for future editions. Beyond the Pop-Up: Long-Term Impact The ROOTS: Made in Africa tour is not just about the immediate impact of the events. It aims to create a long-lasting effect on the African fashion industry by fostering sustained collaboration and growth. By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, ROOTS seeks to build a robust network that supports the ongoing development and international recognition of African fashion. Through strategic partnerships and continued engagement, ROOTS aims to support African fashion brands in scaling their businesses and reaching new markets. Looking Ahead ROOTS prepares to take its tour to Johannesburg and Nairobi later in 2024 the excitement continues to build. Each location will bring its own unique flavor and context to the event enriching the overall experience and providing new opportunities for engagement and growth. The journey of ROOTS: Made in Africa is just beginning, and the future holds immense potential for the African fashion industry. The ROOTS: Made in Africa Fashion Industry Pop-Up Tour represents a bold and visionary step towards uniting the continent’s fashion stakeholders and showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity that Africa has to offer. By fostering collaboration, enabling knowledge exchange, and driving visibility ROOTS is set to make a significant impact on the African fashion landscape.