“I don’t mind introducing myself to people. I don’t assume everyone knows me,” Mai Atafo says to a room of journalists who just watched a documentary about his record-breaking 2023 fashion show at the Eko Hotel.
The fashion show held at the Eko Hotel main hall marked a groundbreaking moment as the first of its kind in Nigeria. Known primarily for hosting concerts and award shows, the expansive venue can accommodate up to 6,000 people, making it a fitting location for such a high-profile event.
Ohimai Atafo, better known as Mai, is the visionary founder of Atafo, one of Nigeria’s leading fashion brands. Through his work, Mai has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry.
Despite this, he actively expresses concern that the Nigerian fashion industry does not receive the respect it deserves, both locally and internationally.
“People still think we’re just tailors; I still meet people who are upset that my shirt costs ₦250,000.”
He adds that imitation frequently fails since making a good outfit requires far more than people realise.
Mai draws a comparison between this and the widespread acceptance of luxury fashion.
He pointed out that one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, Bernard Arnault, owns a number of premium fashion labels.
“Look at the size of MTN’s office in Marina. A fashion label in Nigeria should be that big too.”
He urges Nigeria and its government to consider the millions of luxury fashion brands around the world that drive economic growth and contribute significantly to their countries’ economies.
“Nigerians may love fashion, but they don’t truly appreciate it.”
Atafo has dressed many of Nigeria’s most stylish men and women, with celebrities like Ebuka Obi-Uchendu showcasing his creativity and craftsmanship. His success comes as no surprise, given that he refined his suit-making skills on Savile Row in England, the birthplace of modern tailoring.
While many grooms dream of wearing an Atafo suit, his expertise extends far beyond suits. He has successfully ventured into women’s fashion, ready-to-wear collections, and bridal wear, proving his versatility as a designer.
Although Atafo takes pride in running a profitable fashion business, he believes there is still much more to achieve. He sees no reason why Nigerian fashion designers shouldn’t attain the same international success as Afrobeat artists. However, to reach that level, he insists designers must break free from the limitations of the Nigerian economic climate, which can stifle growth.
Atafo also highlights the strained relationship between Nigeria’s media and the fashion industry. Reflecting on his experiences, he expresses disappointment with the Nigerian press for their lack of support. He believes has hindered the industry’s potential for global recognition.
“It was the first of its kind, but they were asking for payment,” he says.
Mai Atafo is a former Business Lead at British American Tobacco and Senior Brand Manager at Guinness Nigeria.
He understands the financial necessity of media companies. However, he believes that Nigerian media often places profit above the importance of honest, investigative journalism.
He seeks the opinion of Cynthia Lawrence, the head of strategy. “The New York Times asked for permission to use our images, right?” he asks. “Yes,” she confirms.
Mai has mixed emotions about his record-breaking fashion show in 2023. He felt obligated to his sponsors to promote their products and set a new industry standard.
He accomplished both goals, but at a significant cost that didn’t result in increased sales. Now, he realizes that his designs appeal to a specific group of customers. Similarly, it is how not everyone can afford a Hermès bag.
He quips, “We focus on our clientele now. After all, they don’t call us (non-billionaires) when private jets are being auctioned.”
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