How to Succeed in the Nigerian Modelling Industry
If you're reading this article then I guess you would like to find out what it takes to be a model & how to navigate the industry in our beloved country Nigeria. Don't worry I got you covered as I'm gonna go into as much detail as I can.
How to Succeed in the Nigerian Modelling Industry
Hello, my name is Pate Adiegwu. I am a model, artiste & fashion blogger. Some of you might have heard of me, some others not quite. That's just the life of a model, some get to achieve great fame compared to that of the showbiz celebrities while others are just everyday guys in the industry. Do take a moment to follow me on my IG account by clicking here.
Is there a Modelling Industry in Nigeria?
Yes. Wherever there is a fashion industry, there would be a need for models. Though the standard of what a model should look like does vary from country-to-country or region-to-region.
What is the Standard Measurements Required of a Nigerian Model?
The Nigerian model standards are usually the same with the international standard, though most fashion shows are really not strict with it. If you're looking to be a runway model, then you should try to fit in with these measurements so you can readily get jobs.
Guys are expected to be 6ft tall while the girls should be 5ft 9in (min). Guys can be a bit muscular while the girls can be a bit busty as well.
Are there Modelling Agencies?
There are a lot of agencies all over the country, but you would need to be careful as there could also be scams. A good agency wouldn't need money from you to sign up. Once you're scouted you would need to be trained in the art of catwalking. A good agency should do well to take care of its models, promote them & help them get jobs.
Ensure that the agency has a physical location, do not be fooled by online scammers. Most importantly, proofread contracts before signing them.
Be sure you agree with the terms, so you are not tricked into signing 'slavery' contracts. I wouldn't want to recommend any agency but some of the top Nigerian agencies hold scouting calls regularly. Just be sure to try your luck.
Do You Need to Join an Agency?
No. A lot of models make good money as freelance models. Some of the models I've met complained that they were signed but their agencies did nothing to help them get jobs. These agencies still collect their commission when the models go out to hustle for jobs themselves. This can be really frustrating.
But then again, if you're just getting started, you could find it to be a huge industry to navigate yourself. The best bet would be to find yourself a good agency. The 'connection' you could get can go a long way!
Where Do I Start From as an Aspiring Model?
Well if you're still in school or you just don't know where to start from. My best advice would be to work on yourself. There are some little steps you could take to prepare you on your journey. Firstly, you need to take good care of your skin. Having a great body is a MUST! Exercise, eat right. You don't want to develop a potbelly or unnecessary fat.
Go on youtube & search for videos teaching how to catwalk. Social media is a great way to be scouted these days, you can follow agencies, fashion shows & stay updated on the latest fashion news (especially on this blog which you can add to your bookmark).
If you are into the rolemodel thingy, there are a lot of Nigerian models doing great things for themselves, you can always pick one.
How much can the Nigerian Model make?
There is no definite amount. It could range from nothing to a lot, especially when starting out you might need to do free jobs to build your brand & sell yourself. There could also be the case of people taking advantage of you which is quite sad.
The more active you are in the industry, the more money you could make. A few lucky models get to go international. You could walk the runway in countries around the world & you don't need me to tell you that could fetch you a considerable sum. Then again, nothing is guaranteed.
What Does it Take to be a Nigerian Model? (Final Thoughts)
Crazy. Modelling is just like any other profession, though it is undervalued in our country. However, I've been opportuned to meet a lot of beautiful & intelligent & amazing Nigerian models.
They are young, they are vibrant, they are some of the most hardworking people you could find. But we all really are hustlers.
It's a crowded market, you have to go for casting calls where you might even find thousands of people vying for 5-10-15-20 spots. And just like everywhere else, there is a lot of favouritism going on. Sometimes it's even robbed it in your faces. But you don't need to be discouraged if, like me, it been your lifelong dream.
My advice - BE YOU & DO YOU. Develop your unique style, something that makes you stand out, something others might call crazy. That is the only way you get to stand a chance. It could be your haircut, the way you dress, the way you catwalk, how ridiculously tall you are, how ridiculously sexy you are, your personality.
Whatever it is, it could always play to your advantage. Never give up! If it is your dream to be a model, there are a lot of opportunities out there open to you.
