In a breathtaking display of cultural mastery at the Miss Globe National Costume event in Gjirokastër, Albania, Miss Globe Nigeria 2025 Funmilayo Oribayo unveiled a phenomenal garment that paid homage to Nigeria’s rich history and diverse kingdoms. Her costume, the Eyo-Okin, was a mesmerizing tapestry of art and heritage, securing its place as one of the most talked-about pieces of the competition.
Funmilayo Oribayo
A Fusion of Kingdoms: The Costume’s Story
The Eyo-Okin costume, a profound fusion of three iconic Nigerian cultural identities: Lagos, the Edo Kingdom, and national symbolism.
1. The Eyo Masquerade of Lagos
The primary inspiration is the Eyo Masquerade (Eyo-Okin) of the indigenous people of Lagos State. This traditional festival is a spectacle of cultural splendor, and the costume captures its essence while elevating it for the international stage.
2. The Majesty of Edo and the Peacock
Incorporating the grandeur of the Edo Kingdom, the costume features intricate beads from the age-long Edo heritage, crowning Oribayo with an Edo kingdom princess beaded crown. The second major motif is the nuptial Royal Peacock bird plumage, symbolizing beauty and royalty. This theme is further embroidered with Peacock Patterns that hold cultural significance in ancient Yoruba history as a “messenger of the gods.”
3. National Identity
Subtle yet powerful national symbols are woven throughout. The design includes a green and white crafted Eagle head, inspired by the Nigerian coat of arms, grounding the intricate cultural piece in a unified Nigerian identity.
Funmilayo Oribayo
The Artistry: Glorifying the Designer
The spectacular nature of the Eyo-Okin costume is a testament to the skill and vision of its creator, Adebayo Modela Adegbe, and Creative Director Abanobi Emmanuel Ifechuwku.
Adegbe, widely regarded as the “King of Fashion” with a focus on costume making, is celebrated for creating original, unique, and creative African designs that set the standard for Nigerian haute couture. Adegbe’s inspiration is drawn directly from nature, African arts, crafts, and folklore. The costume showcases his mastery of mixed-media design, featuring.
Fabric and Embellishments: The white and silver Aso Oke is hand-embellished with Antique Cowries, green and white beads, Gemstones, Rhinestones, and rain-dropping wrist bands.
Structure and Detail: The design includes a multi-layered, detailed skirt and bustier, complemented by a dramatic red beaded shoulder cape.
This attention to detail transforms the garment from a costume into a magnificent, moving piece of African sculpture.
Funmilayo Oribayo
Why the Costume is Crucial on the Global Stage
The choice of the Eyo-Okin is strategically crucial because it serves a dual purpose:
Cultural Education: By presenting a costume so rich in history, Oribayo uses her stage time to educate a global audience about the complexity and depth of Nigerian culture, moving beyond clichés.
Highlighting Uniqueness: In a competition where national costumes vie for attention, the fusion of the Lagos Eyo, the Edo beads, and the Yoruba symbolism—all crafted with unique Nigerian materials—makes it impossible to ignore. It is a powerful cultural declaration that instantly sets Nigeria apart.
Every bead, every layer, and every feather amplifies the message that Nigeria is a land of kings, queens, and profound, enduring heritage, ensuring the country leaves an unforgettable impression at the Miss Globe pageant.
