Ojekide Clement’s journey to establishing himself as a formidable force in the fashion industry is one marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of his dreams. From the young age of 14, he harbored a singular ambition - to become a tailor. Despite facing setbacks early on, his unwavering passion for the craft propelled him forward on his path to success.
His initial foray into tailoring proved challenging, as the master he apprenticed under failed to provide the necessary guidance and support. School of Fashion in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Equipped with newfound skills, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, starting his business from the veranda of his home.
However, Ojekide’s ambitions reached new heights when he made the pivotal decision to pursue further education in fashion in Lagos, the fashion epicentre of Nigeria. With the unwavering support of his family, he ventured to Lagos, determined to hone his craft and make his mark in the industry.
His career took a significant turn when he joined Zini Couture as a tailor, laying the groundwork for his own venture, Ojekide Nigeria, a bespoke men’s wear clothing line. It was during this formative period that he encountered the transformative Nigerian Creative Enterprise Programme, facilitated by the British Council. Despite initial reservations about his eligibility for the programme, Ojekide was pleasantly surprised to be admitted, a decision that would change the trajectory of his career.
The programme proved to be a game-changer for Ojekide, equipping him with invaluable practical knowledge in product design, pricing strategies, and pitching techniques. He credits the programme for providing him with a platform to elevate his business and expand his network within the industry. With the support of the programme, Ojekide secured a grant that enabled him to establish a brick-and-mortar store in Lagos, further solidifying his presence in the fashion landscape.
Today, Ojekide Nigeria stands as a testament to Ojekide’s vision and tenacity, employing a team of dedicated staff and experiencing exponential revenue growth year on year. His aspirations extend beyond mere success; he envisions Ojekide Nigeria as a pioneering force in African menswear, setting new standards of excellence and craftsmanship.