Seyi Tinubu Backs Made-in-Nigeria Innovation

ABUJA, Nigeria — The Patron of the City Boy Movement, Barr. Seyi Tinubu, has commended the creativity and entrepreneurial initiative of Hon. Bello Ihiovi following the presentation of a customised APC-branded sneaker and matching face cap produced entirely through Nigerian craftsmanship.
Ihiovi, a young entrepreneur and APC faithful, presented the specially designed footwear and matching cap during a visit to Barr. Seyi Tinubu at the City Boy office in Abuja.
The unique fashion pieces combine political identity with indigenous Nigerian craftsmanship, featuring locally woven Aso Oke fabric incorporated into the design. The concept provides a fresh approach to political branding while creating opportunities for Nigerian designers, weavers, tailors, shoemakers and other artisans to participate in a wider value chain.
Seyi Tinubu reportedly expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as an innovative concept capable of encouraging young Nigerians to turn their creativity and skills into viable businesses.
The initiative is significant because it demonstrates that political merchandise can be designed and manufactured locally while reflecting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. The customised sneakers and matching face cap create a distinctive identity that blends fashion, culture, patriotism and political mobilisation.
The project also highlights the importance of supporting Nigerian-made products. Increased patronage of locally manufactured goods can stimulate demand for indigenous skills, strengthen small businesses and create income opportunities for people operating at different stages of the production chain.
The development comes against the backdrop of renewed efforts by the Federal Government to promote youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, innovation and skills development. The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Wisdom Olawande, has consistently advocated initiatives that position young Nigerians as active participants in the nation’s economic development.
For Ihiovi, the project represents more than the production of political merchandise. It demonstrates how a simple idea can develop into an enterprise capable of connecting creativity with employment and local economic development.
The presentation also sends a broader message to Nigerian youths: innovation does not always require looking beyond Nigeria. With creativity, skill and the right support, world-class products can be conceived and produced at home.
As political organisations increasingly explore innovative ways of connecting with young people, the APC sneakers and matching face cap offer an example of how locally made products can combine identity, culture and enterprise while giving Nigerian craftsmanship a place in contemporary political branding.
The initiative by Hon. Bello Ihiovi therefore stands as a modest but compelling example of the entrepreneurial possibilities that exist when Nigerian creativity is matched with Nigerian craftsmanship and a commitment to Made-in-Nigeria products.