The 2024 edition of Tin City Fashion Week (TCFW) delivered a spectacular display of fashion, culture, and innovation on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Novel Suites. The grand runway event, now in its fourth edition, has solidified its position as one of northern Nigeria’s premier fashion showcases.
This year’s theme celebrated the ‘Goudo fabric’, a unique textile highlighting the Middle Belt’s contributions to Nigeria’s fashion industry. Over 10 designers captivated the audience with top-notch designs that blended tradition and creativity, while top celebrities such as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Hanks Anuku, Kenneth Gyang, Akume Akume, Homsuk and Bayo Modela graced the event, alongside notable personalities and a vibrant audience of fashion enthusiasts.
Representing Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Chuwang Pwajok, General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, commended the event’s contribution to changing narratives about Plateau. “We are excited to have people from across the country come to Plateau for events like this. It helps promote our culture, tourism, and economic value,” Pwajok stated, emphasizing the administration’s efforts to make Plateau a hub for cultural and tourism activities.
Pwajok highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering platforms for economic and social development, citing TCFW as an example of how fashion can promote tourism and unity while empowering local communities.
The CEO of Tin City Fashion Week, Christabel Bentu, expressed gratitude to partners, sponsors, and the audience for supporting the vision. She described the ‘Goudo fabric’ as a symbol of unity and cultural pride, urging stakeholders to harness its potential for economic empowerment and global recognition.
“Through Goudo fabric, we celebrate diversity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and foster community development. Tonight, we honor fashion as a force for self-expression and unity,” Bentu said.
Renowned designer Frank Osodi underscored the economic potential of the fashion industry, encouraging investment in young designers and local craftsmanship. “Fashion is not frivolous; it is a thriving industry with the potential to create wealth and employment. We must support local talents to compete on the global stage,” he stated.
Famous actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, in his remarks urged local designers, stakeholders, and the audience to champion the growth of the fashion industry themselves. “Nobody from the government is coming to save you. It is up to the people here, the applause you give, and the clothes you wear that sustain the industry. These young kids on the runway tonight—they are the ones who will save the fashion industry.”
Mofe-Damijo also reaffirmed his pride in Nigerian fashion and culture. “I proudly wear Nigeria every day because I know I’m a cultural ambassador for my country. Tonight, being here at Tin City Fashion Week, I feel honored to witness and support such talent.”
The event received support from various organizations, including Novel Suites, Integrated Dairies, Tapshak Entertainment, Del Africa, MTB Multimedia and Jay FM. A-list stars and participants from Ghana also contributed to the show’s success, enhancing its international appeal.
As TCFW continues to grow, it remains a powerful platform for showcasing Plateau State’s creativity, fostering economic opportunities, and preserving cultural heritage.
“Let us embrace the beauty and diversity that bring us together through the Goudo fabric,” Bentu concluded, as the 2024 edition of Tin City Fashion Week set the stage for an even more remarkable future.
