The Story⚡
A new documentary, Model Citizen, premiered in Lagos, revealing the challenges faced by models in Nigeria’s fashion industry, from exploitation to resilience, and sparking ongoing discussions among viewers and insiders.
Tell Me More
Aniyota Media’s documentary, Model Citizen, premiered on October 26, 2025, at a private screening that brought together models, fashion insiders, filmmakers, and creatives. The event, hosted by Aniyota Media, created a space for focused viewing, followed by conversations about the film’s themes of exploitation, silence, and resilience in the Nigerian modelling industry.
Produced and directed by Aderonke Adeola, who draws from her background and interest in fashion, the film was co-produced by Funmi Coker, a creative economy strategist with experience in law. The two met at a fashion event, which led to their collaboration on this project.
The documentary includes perspectives from Amaka Oguike, Adunolaoluwa Osilowo, Nkemjika Okorafor, Arafat Adele, Ifeoma Anadu, Ifeoma Nwobu, and the late Juliet Chioma Ezeigwe. It examines the emotional and professional aspects of modelling beyond its surface appeal.
Attendees included veteran actress Joke Silva, Emmy award-winning director Joel Kachi Benson, actor and media executive Folu Storms, and other figures from Lagos’ creative community. These guests gathered to support a film that calls for transparency, fairness, and dignity in modelling.
In Nigeria’s fashion world, models are often visible, but their voices remain unheard. Model Citizen provides them a platform to share the realities behind the polished images. Interviews with attendees highlighted surprise at the struggles and abuses depicted. One said, “I’ve always admired models, but I had no idea they go through these struggles, experience these forms of treatments and abuses. This documentary was an eye-opener, and everyone should watch it.”
For models present, the film offered validation. An attendee noted, “This documentary literally voiced out the very thing many of us have been quiet about for fear of losing our ‘daily bread,’ which is why most models you find out there don’t do modelling alone. I, for instance, do other things aside from modelling, because the Nigerian modelling industry will frustrate you. I’m really happy that the documentary Model Citizen is highlighting these issues.”
Online, reactions continue, with viewers expressing shock at the revelations and appreciating the film’s direct approach to modelling in Africa. Aniyota Media uses film to address social issues in creative industries, promoting empathy, reform, and dialogue.
In Summary
Model Citizen is available on Aniyota Media’s YouTube channel. Viewers are encouraged to watch and share their thoughts in the comments.
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