The 40-year-old superstar arrived in Lagos on Thursday, October 29, ahead of the annual fashion showcase at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, where she also marked her birthday weekend with a vibrant mix of art, culture, and style.
In a viral video that swept through social media, Ciara radiated excitement about returning to the city, saying:
“I’m so happy to be here, I’m really excited. It’s not my first time in Lagos… I love Lagos. But you know what? Lagos, from what I’ve seen, it’s like an evolution. When I used to land, I would see all the dirty roads, now it’s pavement.”
In another heartwarming clip, she danced joyfully with traditional performers while wearing a striking blue adire gown and matching gele, exclaiming, “Eko oni baje!” — meaning “Lagos will not be ruined.”
Her arrival was officially confirmed by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“International superstar, Grammy Award winner, Ciara Princess Wilson, is in Lagos… to celebrate our tourism, our art, and our culture.”
A Warm Welcome from Governor Sanwo-Olu
Ciara’s Lagos itinerary included a courtesy visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who warmly welcomed her at an official event.
“I think you’ve taken over the city,” the governor said with a smile.
To which Ciara replied, “I am home.”
Sanwo-Olu praised her connection with the city’s energy, saying, “You have gone to places where the real heart of our city is — where the market is, where the children are, where the energy lives.”
The exchange reflected Lagos’ vibrant soul — a city that thrives on creativity, warmth, and boundless energy.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presents a box of handcrafted Lagos art figurines to Ciara as a symbolic gift celebrating the city’s creative spirit. Photo credit: Mr _JJAGs / Office of the Governor of Lagos State
Ciara shares a light moment with Governor Sanwo-Olu and other creatives during a brunch at Lagos House, Marina, held to celebrate the 15th Lagos Fashion Week. Photo credit: Mr _JJAGs / Lagos State Government
Ciara Shines in Onalaja at Lagos Fashion Week
The highlight of Ciara’s trip came during the 15th anniversary of Lagos Fashion Week, where she made a surprise appearance in a stunning outfit by Nigerian luxury brand Onalaja.
Her sheer ombré dress, designed by Kanyinsola Onalaja, featured a radiant gradient of coral, orange, and violet tones — a shimmering nod to African craftsmanship and contemporary elegance. The moment was more than a fashion statement; it symbolised a fusion of Hollywood glamour and African artistry.
Onalaja, celebrated globally for transforming African textures and beadwork into “wearable art,” embodies the same spirit of innovation that Lagos Fashion Week has championed for over a decade.
A Night of Culture, Style, and Connection
This year’s edition of Lagos Fashion Week marked 15 years of nurturing African designers, promoting sustainability, and redefining global narratives about African creativity.
Ciara’s presence added a new layer of excitement — bridging continents through fashion, music, and culture.
As the lights dimmed and the applause echoed through the Federal Palace ballroom, one message lingered in the air: Ciara’s love for Lagos runs deeper than admiration — it’s a homecoming of the heart.