Google’s Year in Search Nigeria event, a unique fashion-forward take on the annual report, recently concluded in Lagos. The event aimed to connect culture, lifestyle and expression by showcasing the top searches in Nigeria for 2024 through the medium of fashion. This innovative approach was chosen to create an experience that deeply resonated with Nigerians, as explained by Google’s West Africa Communications Manager, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications Manager, West Africa: “Fashion was the perfect medium because it mirrors our bold, expressive, and colourful culture. By partnering with The Style Infidel, Ethnik Africa, and other designers, we’re transforming search trends into wearable art that tells a story.”
The event was hosted by designer and fashion icon, Mai Atafo, and featured renowned stylist Tosin Ogundadegbe, also known as The Style Infidel. Notable designers, including Ethnik Africa, Gbemisoke Shoes, Nack Apparel, Kings & Consort, and RebelByGracie, showcased their creative styles, engaging guests with their interpretations of the year’s top searches.
Each collection reflected a specific category from the Year in Search list, translating trends into captivating runway pieces. For example, the ‘Legacy’ collection, featuring elegant black ensembles, paid tribute to prominent figures who passed away in 2024, aligning with the “Loss” category on the search list.
The event was attended by prominent figures in the entertainment and fashion industries, including model and fitness expert Okusaga Adeoluwa (Saga), actor and singer Elozonam, award-winning actor and comedian Layi Wasabi, and actor, entrepreneur, and influencer Tomike Adeoye. Some of the top highlights from the trending list for 2024 included the US elections, the new national anthem, the national grid, and the minimum wage in the news category. Bobrisky, Betta Edu, and Shallipopi topped the list of trending Nigerian personalities, while Donald Trump, Kai Cenat, and Kamala Harris led the global personalities category.
