Oluwaseyi Adekunle, widely known as Seyi Vodi, is a prominent Nigerian fashion entrepreneur and designer. Born on July 19, 1975, in Lagos State, he is the founder and chairman of the Vodi Group—a leading fashion conglomerate in Nigeria. Originating from Osun State, Seyi Vodi has risen from modest beginnings to become a key influencer in African fashion and was honored as an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Oluwaseyi Adekunle |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 19, 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Osun State |
| Partner | Bunmi Alade-Adekunle (married 2011) |
| Children | Three (two sons, one daughter) |
| Occupations | Fashion Designer, Entrepreneur, Chairman of Vodi Group |
| Net Worth | $500,000 – $600,000 |
Early Life and Education
Seyi Vodi grew up in a large polygamous family in Lagos, where his father had more than 50 children. Despite this bustling environment, he showed strong academic potential.
He completed his primary and secondary schooling in Lagos before enrolling at the University of Maiduguri in Borno State, where he earned a degree in Geology in 1999. Although his academic background was in the sciences, it did not deter him from pursuing a successful career in fashion later on.
Career
Seyi Vodi’s entry into the fashion world happened somewhat unexpectedly during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) service in Akwa Ibom State in the early 2000s.
While serving as a teacher, he found time to learn tailoring skills from local artisans. He started small by making simple garments such as shirts and boxers for his fellow Corps members, who became his first customers.
On July 8, 2001, shortly after completing NYSC, he officially registered his business as Testimony Fabrics. To appeal to a broader market, he rebranded the company as Vodi in 2003—an African-inspired, catchy name that reflected modernity.
In 2002, Seyi Vodi attempted to secure a job in the banking sector but was unsuccessful. Rather than giving up, this motivated him to prioritize his fashion business. Although he briefly worked in banking after passing the test in 2003, he soon left to fully commit to growing Vodi.
Starting with minimal resources and working from home, Seyi Vodi personally sourced fabrics, tailored clothes, and delivered them around Abuja. His dedication to quality and customer satisfaction helped him quickly gain a loyal clientele.
By 2017, the Vodi Group had grown into one of Nigeria’s top fashion labels, with several branches including:
- Vodi Clean (laundry and dry cleaning)
- Vodi Training Institute (fashion education)
- Vodi Debo (specialized fashion line)
- Vodi Textile (fabric sales)
- Shoe and luxury goods sectors
His exceptional design skills have attracted top Nigerian celebrities such as Richard Mofe Damijo, Ayo Makun, Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Kizz Daniel, Tim Dakolo, and 2Baba.
Additionally, several prominent politicians, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and various governors and senators, are among his clientele. International recognition has also followed, with customers from other African countries.
Personal Life
Seyi Vodi married Bunmi Alade-Adekunle in 2011. Together, they have three children—two sons and a daughter—and reside in Abuja. Despite his success, he remains humble and connected to his roots.
Seyi Vodi Net Worth
Seyi Vodi’s net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $600,000. His wealth primarily comes from his diversified businesses spanning fashion design, textile manufacturing, training institutes, and laundry services.
The launch of a multi-billion naira fashion complex in Abuja underscores the growth of his enterprise. He attributes his success to hard work, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Awards and Recognitions
Seyi Vodi has received numerous accolades for his contributions to fashion and society, including:
- Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) — awarded by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023, making him the first fashion entrepreneur to receive this honor
- 2022 African Fashion International Award for Best Fashion Designer
- 2021 Nigeria Fashion Awards – Best Designer of the Year
- 2020 City People Fashion Awards – Designer of the Year
- 2019 YNaija Style Awards – Fashion Designer of the Year
- 2018 African Fashion Foundation Awards – Emerging Designer of the Year
- Recognition from the Austrian Embassy for promoting Austrian lace fabrics
He is also known for his philanthropic work, including community infrastructure projects and training initiatives aimed at empowering young Nigerian fashion entrepreneurs.
