Young Women Should Work Hard For Financial Independence
– Princess Folawiyo, The Doyenne Of Fashion
Princess Abah Folawiyo, the doyenne of the fashion industry in Nigeria and widow of the late Baba Adinni, Alhaji Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo, is also the mother of Segun Awolowo Jr, the past executive director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.
As ‘Sisi Abah’ clocks 80, in her chat with Nikki Odu-Khiran, she gives us an insight into her life as one of Nigeria’s first renowned fashion designers, businesswoman, and notable socialite mother and wife.
You have lived a very fulfilled life; looking back would you have done anything differently?
Not at all. I have lived my life the way I wanted. I’m a sober person but I also believe in enjoying my life; after all, I have worked very hard all my life, even till I was over 70, after which I began to slow down. I like going out once in a while with my friends and enjoying myself; after all, life is for the living.
You are the doyenne of fashion in Nigeria; how do you feel about the progress of the fashion industry in Nigeria?
The younger generation of fashion designers and artisans are doing very well and doing wonderful things with our African prints. When (President Olusegun) Obasanjo banned importation of fabrics and clothes, we started using African prints. Even though a lot of people preferred imported clothes, we were able to convince them by making creative, interesting garments.
You were one of the first people in Nigeria who showed that it was possible to build a viable business in fashion; what advice would you give young people today who want overnight success?
They should be ready to work hard. Being in the fashion industry is not an easy task; it looks glamorous but it’s pure hard work. There is nothing like overnight success. I opened a big factory and a boutique in Surulere back then and was the first Daily Times’ ‘Designer of the Year’. I also won best designer in Ghana at the time. I worked day and night and that’s how people got to know my brand, Labanella.
What is your secret to staying young at heart?
There’s no secret; I’m reserved, I live a quiet life and I’m a happy person. I love working. I don’t believe in dieting. I like my food and I like spending time with my friends, family and my grandchildren; these keeps me young.
What is your philosophy in life?
Live your life happily, work hard, be true to yourself and don’t do anything in excess.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
People see me as a society woman, my work made me so. Actually, I’m very reserved and enjoy living a quiet life. I love people and I’m very accommodating. I’m a sober person.
What qualities do you most admire in others?
I like people that are hardworking and happy.
You are a woman who has done it all and had it all; what advice would you give to younger women?
Younger women should aim at having financial independence and be ready to work hard. Having an education and developing a skill are very important.
What changes would you like to see in Nigeria in your lifetime?
I would like to see a safe Nigeria, to be able to go out like we used to without fear. My wish is that God will bring a leader who will make Nigeria great again.
Who has had the biggest impact on your life?
My background and my family; being half Ghanaian and half Nigerian has made me the person that I am today, and my mother who got me interested in the fashion business.
