- 23 Graduates: The Beauty Therapy Institute (BTI) certifies a new batch.
- Government Support: The FG pledges backing for innovation and economic empowerment in the beauty sector.
- Industry Collaboration: Stakeholders emphasize working together to boost growth and impact.
- Focus on Standards: Moving away from Eurocentric ideals and embracing African beauty.
Nigeria’s Beauty Sector: A Fresh Start
The Beauty Therapy Institute (BTI) just celebrated the graduation of 23 newly certified beauty professionals! This isn’t just about makeovers; it’s a step towards raising the bar in Nigeria’s beauty industry. The Federal Government and industry leaders are teaming up to tap into the sector’s full potential.
Government Pledges Support for Beauty Entrepreneurs
Representing the Minister for Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Special Adviser Chinny Okoye congratulated the graduates and promised the ministry’s full support. “We’re all about innovation and empowering entrepreneurs in the beauty world,” Okoye stated. “We want to help scale ideas and show off Nigerian talent on the global stage.”
Why Collaboration is Key
Dr. Hilda Titiloye, Founder of Uno Health Group, believes the beauty industry is often underestimated. “Many don’t realize how much money this sector can generate,” she explained. “We need to stop working separately and start collaborating to influence policy, attract funding, and make a real difference.”
BTI: Setting New Standards in Beauty Training
BTI is leading the way by offering structured beauty therapy training, with courses lasting up to a year. They’re constantly updating their curriculum to meet local needs while maintaining scientific and ethical standards. The institute also emphasizes the importance of documenting and promoting indigenous beauty practices, like using shea butter and moringa oil. Did you know that shea butter production supports countless communities across West Africa? Shea Trade is a great resource for learning more about this industry.
Embracing African Beauty
Dr. Gboyega Olarinoye, a dermatologist and hair restoration surgeon, urged a shift away from Eurocentric beauty ideals. “We need to define beauty by our own standards,” he said. “The black race is beautiful, and it’s time we embraced our own identity.”
Graduates Ready to Make a Difference
Bright Adoga, a top graduate, described the training as transformative. Evita Felix Okonti, who joined in late 2023, praised BTI’s high standards. “If you’re looking for excellence, this is the place to be. Nigeria is now a serious player in the skincare world!”
The Future of Beauty in Nigeria
Stakeholders are calling for more investment in data, policy changes, and collaboration to strengthen the beauty industry’s role in creating jobs and boosting the economy. The event also featured discussions on hair and scalp health, beauty entrepreneurship, and strategies for scaling beauty businesses.
Key Takeaways from the Event:
- Beyond Beauty: Standards, Skills & Synergy Will Shape Our Next Decade.
- Leveraging Contract Manufacturing & Private Labelling in Skincare.
- Crowning Glory: Bridging Science, Skill & Style in Hair and Scalp Health.
- The Raw, Unfiltered Truth About Being a Beauty Entrepreneur.
- Scaling Smart: Building Profitable Beauty Businesses in a Competitive Market.
