The African Hair Summit is seeking partnership with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to sensitise the public on the benefits of maintaining natural hair.
Adanna Enwezor, coordinator of the summit made the call when she visited the Managing Director of NAN, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.
Enwezor said that the collaboration will help positively shape society’s views on natural hair and the health hazards of using chemicals and non-natural products on hair.
She noted that the media was critical in changing public perception of norms that are harmful to the well-being of the people.
She said, “A lot of people need to know that they can treat their hair and skin better.
Our natural hair is beautiful and we are looking forward to having this partnership with NAN to reach more people.
“The African Hair Summit started in 2016 and so far, we have seen people embrace lifestyle changes, business opportunities in the hair industry and most importantly, promote cultural heritage.
“We want to drive this message and get more Nigerians and Africans to be more aware of these issues,” she said.
Enwezor stated that she was inspired to start the African Hair Summit by her own personal experience. She was burnt by a texturiser and began to research on the chemicals used to straighten her.
She told NAN that she found out the dangers in the products and the importance of using natural products to care for the hair.
The summit is focused on promoting the beauty of natural hair.
Responding, Malam Idris Abdulrahman, the Editor-in-Chief (EIC) who represented the MD welcomed Enwezor and her team.
He assured her of NAN’s partnership.
He noted that the initiative was interesting and brilliant, adding that it was the kind of project that NAN likes to be associated with.
He also said it was an opportunity to contribute to human development as part of the Agency’s corporate social responsibility.
Abdulrahman said, “We need to turn to tradition. It looks unique and we will do everything possible to support and publicise the message of natural hair.
“A lot of health hazards are associated with processed hair and our natural hairstyles are great. It is time to return to our roots,” he said.
Enwezor thanked the EIC for his support noting that it was go a long way in helping people embrace their natural hair.
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She said, “A lot of people have reached out to us to say they lost their jobs because of their natural hair. Rural women are not left out.
“We have taught them how to transform their farm produce to hair care products and these different communities will be exhibiting at the submit,” she said.
The African Hair Summit will hold on June 14 and June 15.
A healthy hair and lifestyle walk will hold on June 8; and the Abuja Hair and Beauty Expo is billed to hold on the last Saturday of November.
