A model’s life is unique, demanding, sometimes fun and sometimes difficult, I think that applies to every kind of job, the mindset is most important in facing most challenges that comes with modeling.
Being a model in Nigeria is quite nice, but there isn’t a lot going on in our Nigerian modeling market, the sector isn’t growing as I and everyone else who started modeling even before me in Nigeria would have thought it would be, but I believe the industry will grow.
South Africa for instance is the hub of African modeling and almost like Europe, Nigeria can get there too, it’s just a matter of putting the right hands together and getting into work big time and not being selfish. So, yes, I would say it is worth it being a model in Nigeria, you make lots of friends and get to meet genuine people.
Modelling vs bread selling?
(Laughs) don’t want to sound ridiculous, but obviously modeling wins, even though the market is still not where it ought to be, but it surely is a better option. I read about Jumoke’s story and was truly amazed. That, for me, is growth and is highly applauded by me and millions of people across the world, and my respect for TY Bello grew even stronger, though I haven’t worked with her before. I wish her (Jumoke) ‘consistency’; that is most important.
Yes it gives better satisfaction, they are two different worlds and the latter is more rewarding.
What do you gain by being a model in Nigeria. Is it worth it?
You can be really lucky if you are blessed with a chameleon face (a face that can change in diffeent shoots)and land lots of commercial deals,and for fashion you have to have a good body,the right body measurements and of course a great face,and height at least from 5’9 inches tall.
What does it take to be a model in Nigeria. Is it difficult?
I wouldn't say being a model is easy or difficult in Nigeria or anywhere in the world,but it depends on the model, how far they are willing to go and how much efforts and sacrifices they are willing to put in.
Is there a particular standard models are expected to maintain?
Yes there are some standards and that’s where consistency in modelling comes in. Take Naomi Campbell for example. She’s in her forties and still rules the fashion world. She’s been modelling for decades. The standards to get such consistency is by taking care of your skin, hair, body, watch you eat, exercises, etc.
Is there any particular weight you should not exceed as a model, how do you maintain that weight without bordering on being anorexic?
We have to be quite specific here. If we are focusing on high fashion, then the weight standard is stricter compared to other sectors of modeling. You have to maintain a particular weight for a long time as long as you want to be modeling. It’s usually 2kgs more or less and it remains like that.
When we talk about anorexia I see it as a form of weakness or even an act of desperation in the sense that one can only get to that stage because they are weak/desperate, keeping in shape has got nothing to do with starving yourself. But it has got everything to do with the kind of food that you eat, the amount of time you spend on physical activities and knowing the limits of what to eat, eating in moderation, is quite easy replace your high fattening foods for less fattening ones, eat more vegetables and fruits and more foods containing fibers, and engage in physical activities. It’s not so hard; it’s just discipline.
