It was glitz and glamour at the International Convention Centre, Awka, on 16th September 2022 as the daughter of the Governor of Anambra State, Adaorah Soludo, organised the very first fashion show in the state which brought designers and models from far and near, who displayed as well as showcased the richness and cultural heritage inherent in the Akwuete local fabric.
It was a display of coats of many colours as dressmakers and fashion designers within and outside Anambra made eloquent statements through designs that there is something very unique and distinct about Igbo culture especially as it relates to traditional attire.
The event, which had in attendance the state governor, his deputy and others, was an occasion to appreciate local content. Poetry renditions, cultural dance performance, stand-up comedy, musical interludes and the fashion parades were a series of events at the maiden fashion expo that added spice and razzmatazz.
The Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Entertainment, Mr. Don Onyenji, said the fashion show was a display of celebration and propagation of the rich culture and potential in Anambra State. Onyenji said it was the first time such a colourful fashion show was organised in the state, adding that the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Entertainment has similar programmes for the rest of the year. The Commissioner said arts and culture festival, Iriji festival, masquerade festival and many other festivals are coming up before the end of this year.
Meanwhile, Mazi Ejimofor Okpara, who is the head of Operations Anambra Fashion Expo 2022, who also doubles as the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Soludo on New Media, disclosed that Anambra Fashion Expo was a dream come true because, according to him, Adaorah Soludo has been into fashion for over a decade and equally had the passion to announce her brand embedded in culture and ethical values.
Okpara also said that Governor Soludo was passionate about promoting the local Akwuete fabric and has shown that in making Akwuete his official dress as governor. He said the Akwuete fabric was indigenous and should be celebrated by Igbo people and Ndi-Anambra in particular.
Mazi Ejimofor Okpara noted that fashion is dynamic; that he is one of those who believes in positive cultural intrusions. That irrespective of the influence of Western culture, indigenous local fabrics still remain our own heritage, adding that the fashion show would be sustained to discover and promote local designers.