Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made a surprise appearance on the runway at Lagos Fashion Week 2026, walking for Nigerian menswear designer Ugo Monye during the event’s closing runway presentations on Saturday, October 31, as reported by the Guardian Nigeria and Galaxy Tv. Held at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, the appearance saw the governor join professional models to showcase Monye’s collection, drawing cheers from the audience. Dressed in a regal off-white ensemble combining traditional Nigerian styling with a kimono-inspired silhouette, complemented by a beige fedora, Sanwo-Olu brought an unexpected political presence to one of Africa’s prominent fashion showcases.
Sharing the experience on social media, the governor said he had stepped away from the usual business of governance to support Monye and the wider creative community. He described Lagos as a growing home for fashion, creativity and culture, expressing pride in designers who continue to expand the visibility of the city and its creative talent on the global stage. The appearance marked Sanwo-Olu’s second documented runway outing at Lagos Fashion Week, following his 2023 debut when he joined models to close designer Emmy Kasbit’s presentation. Ugo Monye’s showcase was part of the evening’s final runway programme, alongside presentations by Fruché and Ejiro Amos Tafiri.
Founded in 2011 by Omoyemi Akerele, Lagos Fashion Week has developed into an important platform for African designers to present their work, engage buyers and connect with international fashion stakeholders. Its 2026 edition, themed “CRAFTED: Heritage. Innovation. Circular Futures.”, ran from October 28 to November 1, bringing together more than 60 designers from across Africa. Sanwo-Olu’s participation placed renewed attention on the relationship between public leadership and the creative economy, while reinforcing the role of fashion platforms in showcasing African craftsmanship, cultural identity and commercial talent.
