A Nigerian shoemaker, named Nelson has unveiled a custom-made pair of loafers valued at ₦25 million through an exclusive luxury unboxing experience.
He describes the shoes as a “one-of-one” creation, meaning only a single pair exists worldwide.
The package includes premium extras such as a certificate of exclusivity, a thank-you note, and a shoe conditioner to enhance its luxury appeal.
Nelson likens his branding to that of prominent Nigerian fashion figures like Seyi Vodi, targeting individuals who have achieved notable success.
The reveal has sparked mixed reactions on X.
Supporters praised the craftsmanship and bold branding, while critics questioned the high price and design, especially considering Nigeria’s current economic conditions.
@wlswot expressed concern about Nigeria’s focus on luxury products for the top 1%, criticizing the country’s tendency to leave the mass market to Chinese manufacturers, especially in industries like automotive manufacturing.
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““This is my problem with most Nigerians. Everyone is chasing making products for the 1% of 1%. While leaving the Chinese to care for the 99%. And this trend is even more pronounced in the car manufacturing industry.
“For a country where the minimum wage is just 70k, we shouldn’t be promoting high cost products but pple that manufacture at scale for the 99% as this is where impact is felt more,” the user said.
@AyoBamkole pointed out that most Nigerian fashion brands struggle to survive beyond their founders because they chase the elite 0.1-1%, often relying on personal networks, while China caters to the remaining 99%, leading to self-sabotage.
“One reason why very, very few fashion brands have survived beyond their founders or for even two decades of consistent relevance in Nigeria, is that they keep hustling for the share of wallet of the 0.1-1% of elites that can afford their prices. Most times personal networks of the founders.
“While China makes a kill serving the remaining 99%. You treat your own largest market segment with disdain, then leave them to China to serve. Then complain that China is threatening your market. Self-sabotaging behavior.”
@real_A_01 highlighted that the shoemaker’s staff might be the actual buyers, noting the lack of a proper online presence or clear product information, which suggests exclusivity is maintained through secrecy.
“The person he is helping with dry cleaning will eventually be the one to buy the shoes. Then later, you’ll start hearing him say, after selling a shoe for N25 million, I started getting more orders worth N5m, N2m, or N7m. I get like 10 to 25 orders every month.
“You’re selling a shoe for N25 million, yet the only way to contact you is through WhatsApp. There’s no website where people can see clear pictures, check the leather quality, or get full details about the product. Well, an anonymous buyer will definitely buy it.”
@lan_micheal criticized the luxury shoe pricing in Nigeria’s impoverished context, accusing sellers of exploiting corrupt officials and religious leaders to buy overpriced products with stolen money.
“In a poverty-stricken low-income country like Nigeria, where proper public healthcare is nonexistent and basic amenities are lacking this clown is selling shoes for N25 million.
“These parasites are betting on corrupt politicians, fraudulent “big boys,” and shady religious leaders to buy their overpriced crap with stolen money. Sad. Luxury crap.”
@AsayGRN urged support for African entrepreneurs, questioning why Africans should not also enjoy luxury from their own brands.
“Don’t criticize him, an African brother trying to change something, just support if you can. You people support and buy expensive western artikels why not an African brand from an African brother.”
