The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made a surprise runway appearance at the Lagos Fashion Week 2026.

The governor walked the runway for Lagos-based designer Ugo Monye, whose label is renowned for tailored menswear including agbada, kaftans and ceremonial wear.

Videos and photos from the event showed the governor strutting the runway to cheers from the audience, in what has become one of the most talked-about moments of this year’s fashion week.

It is not the first time Sanwo-Olu is walking the runway. In 2023, he closed the show for Nigerian menswear brand Emmy Kasbit at the Federal Palace Hotel, Balmoral Convention Centre, in an elegant light blue blazer and navy T-shirt.

Lagos Fashion Week is Africa’s leading fashion showcase, bringing together designers, models and creatives from across the continent. The annual event provides a platform for showcasing African craftsmanship and promoting the creative economy.

Sanwo-Olu has consistently reaffirmed his administration’s support for the creative industry, describing it as an economic force capable of transforming Lagos and creating jobs.

Speaking after his 2023 appearance, the governor said: “At Lagos Fashion Week, I stood proudly in the heart of a city that’s the epicentre of art, culture, and expression. Lagos is where creativity thrives.”

His appearance for Ugo Monye at the 2026 edition further underscores the state government’s commitment to supporting local fashion designers and positioning Lagos as Africa’s fashion capital.

Source: Global News Arena / Verified with BellaNaija, Channels TV.