The advantage that male models have over female models is that they all don’t necessarily have to be very tall, strong and attractive. In the West, male models must be at least 6ft 2in and above. It appears Nigeria is not necessarily as stringent. Depending on the type of modelling, the male model can range from tall and lanky to average height and muscular.

This means that the number of male models in the industry should be much higher. However, my search revealed only two names that we keep hearing about: Okey Okagbue and Ngo Okafor.

Okey Okagbue is a popular model based in Nigeria who has modelled for brands such as Milo, MTN, Vita foam, Orange Dugs, Airtel, Mr. Biggs, among others.

Ngo Okafor on the other hand is a male fitness model who has also made a name for himself and worked in television, music videos, commercial magazines such as Vogue, Vibe and Honey.

We believe opportunities abound for the Nigerian male models and are wondering where they all are. While the road to the top is not necessarily easy, it is possible.

-Priscilla Bamfo

Photo description: Bunmi Ademokoya at AFI Capetown Fashion Week
Photocredit: Simon Deiner/SDR

The first step is find an agent to represent you. As part of preparing to meet with that agency, you must look the part. How do you look the part?

Hair: Lose the wig, weave or whatever hair extensions you have. Keep your hair clean, moisturized, shiny and most importantly, natural. If you have long hair, pull everything off your face so your facial bone structure can be noticed.

Dress: For your “interview” i.e. open call or model search, dress appropriately for your age. Clothes should be clean and fitted NOT tight. A fitted jeans or above the knee skirt with a fitted basic t-shirt and flat comfortable shoes are all you need. Take your heels in your bag so you can use them when you get to the agency and they ask you to walk.

Face: Keep makeup very natural. Your face is a canvas for model agencies to visualize the many things they can do with you. Keep it clean. Avoid wearing makeup if you can and if you must, keep it very natural. Simple lip gloss is fine and if you must, mascara.

Take your Photos: Two polaroid photos are good. You do not need to spend any money on a portfolio. If an agency chooses you, that will be their job to build your portfolio(your book with professional images of you to show potential clients) and composite card for you. Take snapshots of your head (2 is enough) and a full body image (2 -3). Be prepared to provide information on your measurements: hip, waist, bust, shoe size, eye and hair color. Voila you are ready!

Go to an agency Open call: Research when agencies are having an open call and show up. In Nigeria, former model and fashion entrepreneur Linda Ikeji runs a seemingly successful modeling agency so get in touch with her agency for an open call. Other good ones in and out of Nigeria include Isis Modeling Agency (Nigeria), Ice Model Management (South Africa), O Models (South Africa) and a whole host of other agencies that available at your fingertips through google.

Now you are on your way to becoming a model. Good luck!