The flagship store of April by Kunbi features three distinct brands: Stan & Beth, which offers stylish children's fashion inspired by the desire for elegance; Kunbi Lagos, which merges couture with ready-to-wear designs that provide effortless sophistication for daily wear; and Odiuko, a luxury fabric store that caters to clients seeking unique and exclusive materials.
During her speech, the brand's Creative Director, Mrs. Kunbi Uzochukwu, a graduate of the esteemed Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York, expressed her gratitude to her father, Elder Caleb Olawole Oyelese PhD, a former minister for Power and Steel, for his unwavering support of her aspirations.
She also acknowledged her husband, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, Chairman/CEO of Stanel Group and The Delborough Lagos, for his belief in her vision and significant investment in her endeavors. Mrs. Uzochukwu revealed that the state-of-the-art flagship store was a 40th birthday gift from her husband, urging attendees to show their appreciation for him.
As a proud alumna of the prestigious fashion institute that also produced the iconic Calvin Klein, Mrs. Kunbi Uzochukwu has gained international recognition for her innovative designs, which have adorned brides and fashion enthusiasts from Lagos to various corners of the globe.
Chief Allen Onyema, the owner of Air Peace airline, along with former Cross River State governor Donald Duke and his wife, Senators Ben Murray-Bruce, Daisy Danjuma, Iyabo Obasanjo, and former Minister of Industry Chief Nike Akande, were among the distinguished guests who praised the innovative spirit behind the brand during various speeches. Hon. Abike Debiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, renowned clergy Bishop Isaac Idahosa, Dr. Uzochukwu Akunedoze, Managing Director of Blake Resorts, and Mr. Frank Edoho also attended the event.
In his remarks, Chief Onyema expressed his honor at attending the grand opening, sharing his amazement at the interior of the store, particularly the display of Nigerian-made clothing. He stated, “It brings me joy to see Nigerians making their country proud in this way. I hope to see more people wearing locally produced garments. The exceptional talent and meticulous attention to detail in her work are truly commendable. My wife and I will certainly support Kunbi,” he remarked.
Senator Daisy Danjuma officially opened the ‘April by Kunbi Flagship Store,’ congratulating Kunbi on realizing her vision and expressing gratitude to her husband, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, for his support. She encouraged other men to empower their wives similarly, stating, “I urge all men to invest in their wives’ entrepreneurial endeavors. Every man should consider starting a business for their spouse.”
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce also shared his joy in attending the launch of April by Kunbi. He commended The Delborough Lagos for its transformative approach to hospitality in Africa, where Mrs. Kunbi Uzochukwu serves as Managing Director. He expressed his approval of the use of Nigerian-made products in the store and praised the couple's commitment to promoting local craftsmanship.
Former Cross River State governor Donald Duke and his wife expressed their admiration for Creative Director Kunbi Uzochukwu, commending her commitment to the fashion design industry and extending their best wishes for her new venture.
Former Minister of Industry, Mrs. Nike Akande, also offered her congratulations, lauding Kunbi for her exceptional creativity and her role in generating employment for her team. As a former minister, she emphasized her belief in Nigeria's industrialization and pledged to support Kunbi's business. Additionally, she praised The Delborough Lagos, describing it as the finest hotel she has experienced worldwide.
Senator Iyabo Obasanjo enthusiastically praised Kunbi's unparalleled creativity, noting that although they have not met, she has heard from friends that Kunbi is the most innovative fashion designer in Nigeria. She wished her success and recognition on a global scale.