Fashion is often dismissed as a fleeting art form, but for Taofeek Abijako, it is more than trends or fleeting aesthetics—it is a means to tell stories, uplift communities, and reshape narratives. From the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria, to the international runways of New York, Abijako’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. As the founder of Head of State, a brand that blends modern aesthetics with African heritage, Abijako has carved a unique space in the global fashion industry.
The Early Years: From Lagos to Albany
Born in 1998 in Lagos, Nigeria, Abijako grew up immersed in the creative energy of his father’s tailoring studio. Watching his father design clothes for their community, he learned that fashion could be functional and meaningful. At just 12 years old, Abijako moved to Albany, New York, where he would later attend high school.
It was during his senior year that he founded Head of State. What started as a high school project to raise funds for a water facility in a small Nigerian community quickly evolved into a burgeoning fashion label. Abijako began designing and selling T-shirts, hoodies, and other garments using his bedroom as his studio. His first collection gained traction after being picked up by United Arrows, a prominent Japanese retailer.
By the time he was 19, Abijako had become the youngest designer to showcase at Men’s New York Fashion Week in 2018, a milestone that propelled his career to new heights.
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Head of State: A Brand of Stories
For Abijako, the Head of State is more than a fashion label. Named after Fela Kuti’s politically charged song “Coffin for Head of State,” it is a platform to humanize marginalized stories and spotlight African heritage. Abijako draws deeply from his Nigerian roots, embedding cultural elements into his collections while addressing contemporary issues.
One of his most celebrated collections, “Homecoming,” reimagined the 1977 Festival of African Culture (FESTAC ’77). Models graced the runway in designs inspired by agbada robes, diamond-cut embroidery, and the vibrant hues of lipstick red and cerulean blue. The collection was unveiled in Manhattan at The Kitchen, paired with Miriam Makeba’s stirring melodies and a choreographed dance performance.
“For me, fashion isn’t just about clothes,” Abijako once explained. “It’s about stories, relationships, and communities. Each piece I design carries a narrative meant to inspire and connect.”
A Socially Conscious Designer
Abijako’s vision extends beyond the runway. Early proceeds from the Head of State helped build a water supply system in Nigeria, and his philanthropic efforts have only grown since then. His philanthropic efforts are central to his brand’s ethos, and he continues to expand his impact.
Partnering with renowned architect Diébédo Francis Kéré, Abijako is working to construct schools and community centers in Nigeria. This commitment to giving back earned him the Black Design Visionaries Grant from Instagram and the Brooklyn Museum in 2021. The $100,000 award helped him scale his initiatives while fostering equitable opportunities for marginalized creatives.
“For me, it’s about more than just clothes,” Abijako explained in an interview. “It’s about creating a culture that celebrates Black stories and reimagines what’s possible.”
A Unique Design Philosophy
In an industry that often prizes speed and mass production, Abijako follows a different rhythm. He focuses on intentional design, releasing just one major collection annually. His creative process is rooted in dialogue—talking to people, understanding relationships, and immersing himself in stories.
Unlike many designers, Abijako doesn’t start with sketches. Instead, he writes, reads, and researches extensively before translating his ideas into garments. This meticulous approach ensures that his collections resonate with authenticity and purpose.
Abijako likens his pace to that of Frank Ocean—a deliberate and thoughtful cadence that prioritizes quality over quantity. “When the work is ready, it’s ready,” he says.
Reshaping Black Masculinity
Through his designs and personal journey, Abijako also challenges stereotypes about Black masculinity. Reflecting on his relationship with his father, he recalls moments of vulnerability and connection that have shaped his narrative.
“My dad’s story—how he survived difficult times by transforming clothes into survival tools—deeply influences my work,” Abijako shared. “It showed me that fashion can be both functional and deeply personal.”
In an industry known for its relentless pace, Abijako has chosen a more intentional approach. Releasing just one major collection annually, he prioritizes storytelling and sustainability over mass production.
This approach allows him to focus on quality and creativity, ensuring that each piece is a meaningful addition to his portfolio. He describes his pace as the “Frank Ocean pace”—producing work only when it feels ready.
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The Future of Head of State
At just 25, Taofeek Abijako has already left an indelible mark on the fashion world. His work celebrates the intersection of cultural heritage, storytelling, and social impact. From his partnerships with global retailers like United Arrows and Ssense to his plans for future collections, Abijako continues to push boundaries.
As he looks ahead, Abijako remains committed to his mission of humanizing marginalized stories. Whether through innovative designs, community-building initiatives, or thought-provoking collections, he is redefining what it means to be a designer in the 21st century.
A Legacy in Progress
Taofeek Abijako’s story is about resilience, creativity, and purpose. From Lagos to New York, his journey is a shining example of how determination and vision can transform dreams into reality. As the Head of State continues to grow, one thing is certain: Abijako is not just designing clothes; he is crafting a legacy that will inspire future generations.
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