Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has credited former President Olusegun Obasanjo with influencing the growing acceptance of traditional Nigerian clothing in professional and public spaces.
Rhodes-Vivour said Obasanjo’s consistent preference for indigenous outfits helped change perceptions about traditional dressing at a time when Western-style suits largely dominated formal occasions.
The politician made the observation during an interview in a video circulating on social media and shared on X by @carter8f.
Recalling the fashion trends of earlier years, Rhodes-Vivour said suits were once the preferred choice for many Nigerians attending professional engagements, while traditional outfits were largely reserved for Fridays and special occasions.
“Before I left Nigeria, people didn’t use to wear traditional clothes except on Fridays. People mostly wore oversized suits. It was Obasanjo who made people start wearing traditional attire again,” he said.
He argued that Obasanjo’s dressing choices helped challenge that perception, demonstrating that indigenous clothing could be worn confidently in formal settings.
“Obasanjo helped make traditional Nigerian dressing more acceptable in public and professional spaces,” Rhodes-Vivour said, reflecting on the former President’s cultural influence.
Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s civilian President from 1999 to 2007, was widely recognised for his preference for traditional Yoruba attire, particularly flowing agbada outfits and matching caps.
His distinctive appearance became a familiar feature of his public engagements.
Traditional clothing has long been an important part of Nigeria’s cultural identity, with different ethnic groups maintaining distinctive styles.
The Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa communities, among others, have indigenous outfits that reflect their histories and cultural values.
However, Western influence, particularly during the colonial era, contributed to the growing adoption of European-style clothing in formal institutions and professional environments.
Rhodes-Vivour’s comments draw attention to the role of influential public figures in promoting indigenous culture and encouraging Nigerians to take greater pride in their heritage.
The politician contested the 2023 Lagos governorship election under the Labour Party before moving to the African Democratic Congress, where he is seeking the state’s governorship ahead of the 2027 election.
