Grammy-winning singer Ciara Princess Wilson has declared her love for Lagos, describing the city as her home during her latest visit to Nigeria.
The 40-year-old American superstar arrived in the country on Thursday for the 2025 Lagos Fashion Week, scheduled to run from October 29 to November 3 at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island.
Her trip also coincides with her birthday celebration this weekend, adding a personal touch to her cultural visit.
In a viral video, Ciara expressed excitement about being back in Lagos.
“I’m so happy to be here, I’m really excited. It’s not my first time in Lagos, I’ve been here a few times so I know about Lagos,” she said.
“I love Lagos. But you know what? Lagos, from what I’ve seen, it’s like an evolution of Lagos. So when I used to land, I would see all the dirty roads, now it’s pavement.”
In another trending clip, the pop star joyfully declared, “I’m home.” She was seen dancing with traditional performers at an art gallery while dressed in a bright blue adire gown and matching headgear.
Ciara shouted “Eko oni baje” meaning “Lagos will not be ruined.”
Her arrival was officially confirmed on X by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who said the singer was in town to celebrate Lagos’ growth in tourism, art, and fashion.
He wrote, “International Superstar, Grammy Award Winner, CIARA Princess Wilson is in Lagos, accompanied by the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka. She will be joining us in Lagos to celebrate our Tourism, our Art, and our culture.”
Ciara meets Sanwo-Olu
During her stay, Ciara met with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who warmly received her at an event in Lagos.
The Governor smiled as he greeted the superstar and said, “Hi, how are you.” Ciara responded cheerfully, “Amazing.”
Sanwo-Olu said, “I think you’ve taken over the city.”
Ciara smiled and replied, “I am home.”
The Governor continued, “Definitely, in a real way. As you can see, this is real home. You have gone to places where the real heart of our city is, where the market is, where the children are, where the energy lives.”
Ciara nodded and said, “I am really so happy to be here. It is important to me. I am home.”
Their warm exchange captured the spirit of Lagos, energetic, welcoming and full of life.
Ciara stuns in Onalaja at Lagos Fashion Week
Ciara made a surprise appearance at the Lagos Fashion Week’s 15th anniversary on Thursday, October 30, 2025, where she stole the spotlight in a captivating outfit by Nigerian luxury brand Onalaja.
The superstar appeared in a sheer mesh long-sleeved dress with a striking ombré gradient that flowed from coral and orange to purple, blue and rainbow tones. The form-fitting outfit shimmered subtly under the lights, perfectly complementing her bronzed makeup and signature confidence.
The outfit was designed by Kanyinsola Onalaja, creative director of the globally recognised brand known for merging African craftsmanship with modern design. Onalaja’s pieces are often described as wearable art, celebrated for bold textures, intricate beadwork and unapologetic femininity.
Ciara’s choice of the Nigerian designer for such a high-profile event highlights the growing global reach of Nigerian fashion and Lagos’ position as the creative heartbeat of Africa.
Her presence at the show symbolised a connection between global entertainment and African creativity, reinforcing Lagos Fashion Week’s mission to push African design into global conversations about style, sustainability and innovation.
Night of style and celebration
The 15th anniversary edition of Lagos Fashion Week brought together designers, celebrities and fashion lovers from across the continent.
The event celebrated 15 years of promoting emerging designers, supporting sustainability and amplifying African identity through bold and innovative collections.
Ciara’s presence added excitement to the evening, blending Hollywood glamour with African artistry.
As the night ended, one thing was clear. Ciara’s Onalaja moment was more than fashion. It was a celebration of culture, creativity and connection.
