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From Okwe Obi, Abuja
In a society where moral decadence, especially the display of nudity, has become the other of the day, in the name of fashion, the federal government and the Transforming Church International (TTC), recently led a campaign against nudity, through the 2025 Clothed And Not Ashamed (CANA) Fashion Show in Abuja. This year’s event which is the third edition and was christened: ‘Royal Takeover,’ assembled fashion aficionados, business tycoons and artistes.
The TTC founder, Reverend Sam Oye, in his opening remarks, said there was a need to promote decent dressing and lifestyle. He reiterated the fact that Christians, who are desirous to live upright and to make heaven, should not conform to the lifestyle of the society but that of God.
He said: “Through initiatives like CANA, we are reminded that fashion is not about artistics, it is also about value, modesty, dignity, creativity and empowerment.
“As a ministry, we are committed to supporting platforms that celebrate our people’s creativity and promote sustainable livelihood through arts, design and culture. The creative economy is not a sector but a powerful engine for social growth, youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy.
“On these notes, I applaud the Transformer League of Professionals and the Transforming Church International for championing this intersection of faiths and fashion where artistry uplifts and enterprise transforms life all together.
“To the designers, artisans, like we’ve all seen the designers, what they’ve done, and the entrepreneurs participating at today’s event, you are ambassadors of Nigeria Creative Ministers. Also, your work tells our story to the world, which is a story of beauty, dignity and purpose.”
Speaking of the entrepreneurahip gains over time, he said: “Since the inception of CANA over 70 talented designers have been showcased, more than 30 fashion entrepreneurs empowered and they have hosted over 120 vendors and amplified the voice and visibility of people living with disabilities and children with special needs.
“These are not mere statistics for stories of empowerment, innovation and inclusion. The theme for this year’s edition, ‘Royal Takeover’, resonates deeply with the ministry’s vision to reposition Nigeria’s creative industry as a catalyst for national pride and global influence. Indeed, Nigerian fashion industry stands today as one of our nation’s greatest cultural experts, which is a reflection of our identity, our resilience and ingenuity.”
On the government’s side, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the CANA Fashion Show had become a shining example of how faith, creativity, and enterprise can merge to produce truly transformative projects. According to her, Nigeria’s fashion industry stands as one of the nation’s greatest cultural exports which is a reflection of Nigeria’s identity, resilience and ingenuity.
Musawa added that through initiatives like CANA, the government is reminded that fashion is not just about aesthetics; it is also about values, modesty, dignity, creativity and empowerment.
Represented by the Senior Cultural Officer (Entertainment and Creative Economy Department), Zita Amaka Onwudiwe, she maintained that as a ministry, “we are fully committed to supporting platforms that celebrate our people’s creativity and promote sustainable livelihoods through art, design and culture.”
To the designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs who participated, she described them as “ambassadors of Nigeria’s creative renaissance”, saying: “your work tells our story to the world which is a story of beauty, dignity and purpose. Continue to dream boldly, create ethically, and represent our nation with pride.
“On this premise, I celebrate the organizers, partners, and every participant of this remarkable event. May the ‘Royal Takeover’ truly mark a season of excellence, innovation, and divine elevation in Nigeria’s fashion space.”
A church member, Abiodu Idowu, said he was thrilled and transformed by the show. “I enjoyed myself. The show was interesting. I look forward to seeing the next year’s event. This is what churches and other organizations should be promoting to encourage godliness. Nudity should not be tolerated, especially in the house of God in the name of fashion. A person can still dress decently and be beautiful,” he said.
At the end of the event, winners emerged. In the kids category, the chief executive officer of White Pearl Couture, Eunice Abayomi, got a prize of N500,000. The second position was won by chief executive officer of Urah Nation, eight-year-old Urah Pascaline Eleojo got N250,000.
Also, winner in the female category were chief executive officer of the Malissa Onojo (N500,000), second position was won by the founder of FunDivas Exclusive, Olufunke Omotola Ayodele (N250,000)
In addition, winners in the male category were the chief executive officer of Enik Clothing & Co, Ikhianosime Enilama (N500,000) and chief executive officer of St. Elles International, Eleojo Alfred
(N250,000). For special recognition for exemplary conduct and compliance went to the chief executive officer of Tito Stitches, Tito Abimbola Ndako (N100,000). The chief executive officer of Jucy Haute, Gabriel Oluwasayo Joyce, won the exemplary commitment and business drive category.
