The highly anticipated debut of Banke Kuku’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, Oceans Front Row, took place at the prestigious Royal Box Event Centre, drawing a distinguished audience of friends, colleagues, fashion enthusiasts, and key players from Nigeria’s culture, tourism, luxury, and lifestyle industries. The event celebrated the brand’s vibrant creativity, with a focus on environmental sustainability and the beauty of marine ecosystems.
The show was graced by notable dignitaries, including the First Lady of Kwara State, Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, and the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, alongside John Obayuwana, Managing Director of Polo Limited, and other esteemed guests.
Banke Kuku, internationally recognized for weaving intricate cultural narratives into her designs, presented the Oceans Front Row collection, a vibrant fusion of modern fashion and African heritage. The collection not only showcases her remarkable creativity but also raises awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems through the lens of fashion.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the collection, Banke Kuku, Creative Director and Founder of Banke Kuku, stated that, “Fashion is a powerful storytelling tool, and I want to use my designs to create awareness and inspire positive action. With Oceans, I want to bring attention to the vast beauty of our marine ecosystems and the urgent need for their protection. Our oceans are vital to life on Earth, and through fashion, I hope to spark a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world.”
Banke Kuku also expressed deep gratitude to Polo Avenue, whose longstanding support has played a crucial role in propelling her brand to international recognition.
Chika Nnadozie, Head of Marketing at Polo Limited, speaking on the partnership with Banke Kuku, stated that, “Our partnership with Banke Kuku is a natural fit, as she is a visionary designer whose work consistently reflects craftsmanship at the highest level. Her collections address important global issues, such as environmental sustainability, which aligns perfectly with Polo Avenue’s values.”
She further emphasized that Banke Kuku’s innovative approach to creating awareness for ocean protection resonates with today’s global and local audiences, who seek luxury that not only embodies aesthetic beauty but also contributes meaningfully to society.
The partnership between Polo Avenue and Banke Kuku has spanned three years, under the Polo Avenue Fashion Series, which supports Nigeria’s vibrant and dynamic fashion industry. Through this series, Polo Avenue elevates African designers like Banke Kuku, who contribute to the elegance, lifestyle and beauty of African fashion while also leveraging their platforms for social impact.
“The Oceans Front Row collection brings a fresh perspective and impactful narrative that aligns with Polo Avenue’s goals and values,” Chika Nnadozie added.
She concluded by announcing that the Oceans Front Row collection will be available for purchase at Polo Avenue.
As the show came to a close, one message echoed throughout the room: like the oceans, Banke Kuku’s vision is vast, limitless, and ever-evolving, calling us all to embrace sustainability, diversity, and the beauty of the natural world.
