By Joy Essien, Contributing Editor, Lagos Metropolitan
They’ve been headlining projects, events, their works, inspiring us and remaining relevant while staying true to their calling and passion.
Veekee James – Born Ruth Erikan James in 1995, she is a fashion designer, gospel singer and entrepreneur. Having stopped school to pursue her passion, it paid off. In February 2023, she organised her first masterclass for about 100 fashion creatives around the world to develop their skills. She also founded Veekee James Man for men’s wears and Shoperikan, a ready to wear clothing brand for women. Today, for every event and personality that matters, you’re expected to show up in a Veekee James outfit. Some of her numerous awards so far include Best Designer at the AMVCA and Future Award Prize for Fashion.
Nathaniel Bassey – Arguably one of the most respected and prominent gospel ministers in Nigeria, his songs are everywhere and every one of them is a hit, effortlessly traveling across the globe. From Jesus Iye to See What The Lord Has Done, Imela to Son of God…the list is endless. And they continue to be a blessing to all, both within and outside the faith. Pastor, Trumpeter and Songwriter, Mr. Bassey studied Politics, interestingly, in his first and second degrees and started his music career in church, releasing his debut album in 2008. He started the Hallelujah Challenge, an online event in 2017 where he and other believers worship God for one hour and this has continued to this day with the next one coming up in October 2025.
Nse Ikpe-Etim – With a degree in theatre arts from the University of Lagos, Nse is one of Nollywood’s finest and brightest stars, she has a vast range and can act almost anything. We loved her in Phone Swap, Shanty Town, King of Boys, Love and Life and recently, Devil is a Liar. But her craft and talent was rewarded with the Best Actress Award in the movie “Journey to Self” at the AMVCAs in 2014.
Moses Bliss – Born Moses Uyoh Enang, he is a Gospel Singer, Worship Leader, Songwriter and founder of the record label, Spotlite Nation. From the Believer’s Loveworld Choir he debuted his music career in 2017. Amongst some of his popular songs are Bigger Everyday, Too Faithful and Miracle No Dey Tire Jesus. He also owns a clothing brand for men in Abuja known as Shades of Bliss and holds an annual music concert called Bliss Experience.
Prudent Gabriel – Self-taught, Bold, Daring and Resilient. She is an award winning fashion designer, entrepreneur, Founder and CEO of Prudential Styling and Prudent Gabriel Atelier – the largest fashion school in Africa. This diva who didn’t know how to thread a needle in 2018 started sewing in her bedroom and today has a rich clientele from across the globe spanning actors, actresses, artistes and notable personalities. Her story is known from her transformation from a waitress to one of those designers you want an outfit from.
Hilda Baci – Born Hilda Effiong Bassey, she’s a restauranteur, TV personality, Chef and the most popular one, 2 time Guinness World Record Holder. In 2021, she won the jollof face-off competition and has hosted the cooking show “Dine on a Budget” on Pop Central. She gained international recognition in 2023 for her 93hr cook-a-thon and recently (September 2025), in partnership with the Gino Food Brand, she set a new record for the largest serving of Nigerian Style Jollof Rice. She’s the CEO and Head Chef of My Food by Hilda. Hilda says her Guinness record breaking attempts are motivated by a desire to bring Nigerian cuisine to the world and inspire young African women.
