Chinedu Daniel Akanigwo’s ( aka Hairbyhairboy) journey into the Nigerian beauty industry began with no fame, no funding, and no blueprint—only hunger, literal and metaphorical. Starting as a young apprentice in a hair shop, Chinedu’s path has become a testament to how early adversity can inspire remarkable determination.
By the age of 13, Chinedu was already immersed in the business of hair, learning the trade not as a hobby, but as a means of survival. Coming from a family facing financial hardship, he found himself drawn to the bustling world of weaves, wigs, and women’s beauty needs. Unlike many of his peers, he did not wait for opportunities—he created them.
Operating under the name Hair by Hair Boy, Chinedu gradually built a brand known for high-quality human hair products sourced from global markets, including Vietnam, China, and India. But his growth has not been without challenges. From being mistaken for a fraudster due to identity theft, to facing stereotypes as a young male in a women-dominated market, Chinedu’s rise has required grit and resilience.
His early environment in Ihiala shaped not just his humility, but his vision: to make beauty accessible without compromising on quality. His brand has steadily gained recognition among customers across Nigeria, particularly women who appreciate raw, unprocessed hair textures.
Though still in his early twenties, Chinedu continues to grow his influence beyond sales. His presence in local conversations around youth empowerment and entrepreneurship is a quiet but significant reminder that small towns can produce big voices.
