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Mama DUPE SAGOE’s Daughter, EKUA
For years, the Sagoe Gele has reigned as one of the most recognisable fashion statements among Nigerian women — from red-carpet celebrities to society matrons, brides, and even fashion enthusiasts overseas. Its rich damask texture, bold elegance, and unmistakable craftsmanship have made it a global sensation, worn proudly in Nigeria, across West Africa, and as far as Asia. But behind this iconic headgear is a visionary octogenarian woman whose creativity reshaped the gele industry: Mrs. Modupe “Dupe” Sagoe is popularly called “Sisi Dupe Sagoe”. She has been around for over 50 years and still waxing strong in the fashion industry as a go-to fabric merchant.
In this engaging chat with Citypeople reporter, Jamiu Abubakar (08085185886), her daughter Ekwa Akinsanya reveals the inspiring story behind the famous Sagoe Gele and the remarkable woman who created it. Below are excerpt:
So firstly, let’s get to meet you.
My name is Ekwa Akinsanya, and I’m the daughter of Mrs. Modupe Sagoe — a foremost and highly respected fabric merchant in Nigeria. What my mom has accomplished is nothing short of incredible. She’s an astute businesswoman who has dressed the high and mighty in Nigeria, across West Africa, and in many parts of the world.
She is known for sourcing only the best high-end fabrics. It’s very common to hear people say, “I bought this from Mrs. Sagoe 20 years ago; it still looks brand new.” That’s the kind of quality she represents.
At some point, she decided to create her own version of the classic damask gele — and that birthed the now-famous Sagoe (or Sego) Gele. Today, people in places as far as Korea and China know about it. We’re extremely proud of this legacy she dreamt, developed, and brought to life.
There’s hardly a major fashion personality in Nigeria, and hardly any VIP — first ladies, government officials, prominent society women — that she hasn’t styled at one point or another.
How do you feel being the daughter of a celebrity fabrics merchant?
I’m extremely proud of her — not just because of her business success, but because of her heart. She’s a generous philanthropist who has helped countless people.
For over 20 years, she has provided free water for her community. People come from different areas to fetch water from the tap she built. During both Muslim and Christian fasting seasons, she provides food daily for over 300 people. That’s who she is — compassionate, selfless, and committed to improving the lives of those around her. So being her daughter goes beyond inheriting fashion; it’s inheriting a heart for humanity.
Being her daughter, how has her lifestyle influenced your personality?
Definitely in many ways! We all grew up knowing that we must contribute positively to the lives of others. And yes — we are definitely fashionable! As you can see. Laughs.
How does her influence reflect in your fashion sense?
Oh, in every way. We all have a strong sense of fashion, creativity, and personal style, which we clearly inherited from her. And we are very grateful for it.
Are you also into the fashion business now?
No, not at the moment. But my son is already doing some work in fashion. All of us support her in our own different ways.
Can you tell us something many people don’t know about your mom?
She’s the kind of person who would give out her own eye if it would make her neighbour’s life better. That’s how deeply generous she is.
