...Alia pledges N20m support

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The 5th edition of the Men Fashion Week Benue (MFWB) lit up Makurdi as designers from within and outside the state showcased dazzling styles that captivated a packed audience at the Dream Event Center.

Founded in 2020, MFWB has grown into a major creative platform attracting established and emerging designers from Benue, the Middle Belt, as well as Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

The Founder and Creative Director of MFWB, Mshelia Jamal Jamilu, said the event’s rising influence has opened doors for young creatives across the state. “This platform has grown steadily and it’s shaping careers. I always prefer to let the runway do the talking, and tonight, it did,” he said

One of the most remarkable highlights of the night came from an unexpected source, a young commercial motorcycle rider discovered by the MFWB scouting team. After undergoing grooming and training, he made his debut on the runway, earning loud applause for his confidence and presence.

His transformation embodied what Jamal described as the core mission of the platform “to expand access to creative opportunities regardless of background.”

The event also featured energetic performances by Benue-born artistes including Rapizo, George Milla, Slim Birdie, GYVV and President EMS, creating a vibrant atmosphere that drew designers, fashion lovers, industry players and supporters of the arts.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, was among the high-profile attendees and added a memorable twist to the evening when he surprised guests by walking the runway. His appearance was greeted with cheers, symbolising his support for the state’s growing creative sector.

Speaking after the presentation, Governor Alia expressed admiration for the quality on display.
“I am pleasantly surprised by the level of creativity coming from what I fondly call my small Benue. The organisers deserve commendation for giving our young creatives a platform to be seen,” he said.

The Governor then announced a financial support package of N20million to MFWB, a gesture that drew thunderous applause from the audience.

Although a guest designer from Ghana was unable to attend due to travel delays, the runway remained vibrant with expressive, contemporary African fashion.

Governor Alia had earlier this year met with key players in the creative industry, including the MFWB team, as part of efforts to strengthen cultural programming in the state. The Men Fashion Week Benue is now emerging as one of the flagship platforms from those engagements.

At the heart of it all is Jamal, whose leadership and creative vision continue to elevate Benue’s position within Nigeria’s fashion landscape. For him, MFWB is more than a fashion show, it is a channel for discovery, empowerment and cultural pride.