Makems Jewellery Showcases Unique Locally-Made Designs
By Patience Ikpeme
Makems Jewellery, an Abuja-based fast-rising jewellery-making company, has brought vibrancy to the city with its annual jewellery exhibition held on December 7, 2024, at the Glowing Ages Academy, Games Village Road, Kaura District.
The event showcased a stunning array of trendy, fine, and unique handmade jewellery alongside imported designs, drawing hundreds of visitors and fashion enthusiasts eager to explore and purchase the season’s best pieces.
The exhibition, a well-curated showcase of contemporary designs and vintage treasures, featured Makems’ signature handmade pieces, including earrings, long necklaces, jewellery sets, bangles, bracelets, rings, and male bracelets.
With a focus on promoting local content, the event aligns with the Federal Government’s policy of supporting locally-sourced production across industries.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Kilaso Omonike, Director of Business Development at Makems Jewellery, highlighted the company’s dedication to using local materials to create unique jewellery designs. “Considering the economy and the exchange rate between the dollar and the Naira, imported products have become very expensive. At Makems Jewellery, we ensure that we source local materials to make beautiful jewellery pieces that are not only affordable but also uniquely Nigerian,” she said.
Makems’ commitment to local content extends beyond design. According to Omonike, each jewellery piece is one-of-a-kind. “What we do is unique to an individual. We do not repeat designs. So, when you buy a Makems jewellery piece, you own the only one in existence,” she explained, adding that this exclusivity has garnered a loyal clientele.
The exhibition provided an opportunity for attendees to network and purchase items tailored to their tastes and status, especially as the festive season begins. Visitors were particularly drawn to the locally-produced jewellery, which Omonike described as “more unique, durable, and appealing to clients” compared to imported options.
Omonike emphasized Makems’ high standards of quality, noting that the firm’s locally-made pieces often surpass imported designs. “Many Nigerian-made products suffer from compromised quality, but at Makems, we ensure that our jewellery meets and exceeds international standards. Our designs are not only nice and unique but also cater to Nigerians across various social divides,” she stated.
On affordability, Omonike explained that pricing the products in Naira makes them more accessible to a wider audience. She also revealed the company’s long-term goal of exporting locally-manufactured jewellery to boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.
The exhibition also showcased Makems’ role in employment generation. “We have employed many staff members and are creating opportunities for Nigerians across the value chain,” Omonike said, adding that the company is also leveraging social media platforms for online sales to reach a broader audience.
Looking ahead, Omonike expressed Makems’ vision to become a household name in Nigeria’s jewellery industry. “Our plan is to deepen local content, improve value addition, and offer durable, comfortable, and affordable jewellery products. We aim to enhance the government’s policy direction in the coming years,” she concluded.
Makems Jewellery’s annual exhibition has not only underscored the potential of locally-made products but also highlighted the importance of quality, affordability, and innovation in driving the growth of Nigeria’s fashion industry.
