Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made a surprise appearance on the runway at the 2026 Lagos Fashion Week, where he joined professional models to showcase a collection by Nigerian fashion designer Ugo Monye.
The governor took part in the fashion presentation on Saturday, October 31, at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, attracting cheers and applause from the audience as he appeared alongside the models.
Dressed in an outfit designed by Monye, Sanwo-Olu confidently walked the runway, drawing attention from attendees who were surprised to see the governor participating in the fashion show.
Following the appearance, Sanwo-Olu took to his social media account to express his excitement about the experience and explain his decision to participate.
He said he temporarily stepped away from his regular governance responsibilities to support Monye and celebrate the growing fashion and creative industry in Lagos.
The governor also described Lagos as an emerging centre for fashion, creativity and culture, expressing his continued commitment to supporting individuals and businesses contributing to the development of the creative sector.
Sanwo-Olu’s latest appearance marked his second documented participation in Lagos Fashion Week since becoming governor in 2019. His first runway appearance was in 2023, when he walked for Nigerian designer Emmy Kasbit.
Lagos Fashion Week, established in 2011 by Omoyemi Akerele, is an annual event that provides Nigerian and other African designers with opportunities to showcase their collections to fashion enthusiasts, buyers, media professionals and international audiences.
The 2026 edition, themed “CRAFTED: Heritage. Innovation. Circular Futures.”, brought together designers and other industry stakeholders to celebrate African fashion, creativity and innovation.
