Every Halloween, Nigerians pull out all the stops for costume parties, but we keep seeing the same foreign faces: Velma from Scooby Doo, Halle Berry as Catwoman, The Mask, Spiderman, and of course, Joker. Sure, these characters are iconic, but it’s high time we tapped into our own pop culture goldmine and let Nigerian legends and local icons take the spotlight. Imagine stepping into the party dressed as Sola Sobowale’s fierce King of Boys character or channelling Wizkid’s Made in Lagos album cover swag. These looks are fresh, easy to pull together, and unapologetically Nigerian.

While you make plans for next Halloween, we’ve got a costume list that’s both fun and specifically Nigerian. Check out these ideas and make a statement at your next costume party!

Wizkid on the D & G Runway

Recreate Wizkid’s famous Dolce & Gabbana runway look with a standout patterned suit, dark sunglasses, and serious swag. It’s a bold look that brings fashion and star power in equal measure.

Sola Sobowale as Eniola Salami in King of Boys

Channel the intensity of Eniola Salami with a grand agbada-style outfit, chunky jewelry, and a fierce attitude.  Don’t forget the statement turban to match. Throw in her legendary stare, and you’re ready to go.

Pretty Mike

If you’re extra and you want people to guess the outfit immediately it’s worn, this is the one for you. Just put together wild accessories, dress up people to use as accessories as well and a personality that screams confidence. Every detail should say “I am extra.”

@papiiitino

Some Nigerian Mythology. Do you think Madam Koi Koi is real? 👀 #fy #viral #nigeria #mythology #papiiitino

♬ Suspense, horror, piano and music box – takaya

Madam Koi Koi

Bring this legendary character to life with a flowing red dress, bold red shoes. When you get to the party remember to drag your feet and lose one shoe.

Any of the Many Looks of Toyin Lawani

Put together an outfit that will remind people of Toyin Lawani’s fashion sense with avant-garde fabrics and creative accessories. Go for one of her over-the-top looks from any of the red carpet and you’re good to go. This number is definitely Halloween approved.

Baba Suwe

You can honour the comedy legend with a simple, worn outfit and Baba Suwe’s hilarious expressions. It’s a humorous costume that’ll appeal to everyone’s nostalgia.

Owambe Guest

You’d most likely win best dressed if you wear this. Get into party mode with a colorful lace outfit, gele, and chunky jewelry. Don’t forget a stash of fake “naira” for spraying. No Owambe look is complete without it.

NYSC Corper

Channel your inner youth and love for the country with this outfit.  Put on the classic NYSC khaki uniform. Add a crested vest and a cap, and you’re set.

@ogbolor1

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂#jenifasdiary

♬ original sound – funnyogbolor

James from Jenifa’s Diary

Have fun with James’s quirky style from Jenifa’s Diary. All you need is bright patterns, daring hair that is wrapped in a bandana, and a personality that’s larger than life. Once you’re dressed, remember you need to chew gum, that’s all.

Veekee James’s Glamorous Style

Get the perfect Veekee James costume with a bold, elegant dress featuring her signature V-shaped corset. Add striking makeup and jewelry that pops for a complete look.

P-Square from the Bizzy Body Video

Bring back the early 2000s with a friend and recreate P-Square’s Bizzy Body look, complete with streetwear and a bit of attitude. This duo costume is definitely throwback perfection.

@aki.and.pawpaw4

♬ original sound – Aki and pawpaw

Aki and Pawpaw

Double up with a friend and go as Nollywood’s most famous comedy duo. Think brightly colored, mismatched clothes, funny hats and playful expressions. This one will definitely be a crowd favorite.

Tems

Opt for Tems’ effortless style with comfy sexy streetwear, a bold hairstyle, and confidence. Tems’ look can be easygoing or glamorous but always cool. Once you do the cat-eye thing as well, you’d look like her twin.

Wizkid’s Made in Lagos Album Cover

Keep it casual with a laid-back look inspired by Wizkid’s Made in Lagos cover. The beige monochrome outfit is iconic. 

Emir

Go traditional with a royal turban, flowing robes, and beads. You’d be easy to spot and you’d look regal as well.

@inkblotpresents

I rewatched this scene like twenty times🥹 🎬: The Wedding Party on @Prime Video Naija #movie #nowstreaming #watchnow

♬ original sound – Inkblot Productions

Adesua Etomi as Dunni in The Wedding Party

You can always show up as a bride in a classic white dress inspired by Adesua’s role in The Wedding Party. Pair it with the iconic crown to complete your glamorous look.

Yoruba Traditional Bride

Become a beauty queen in a gorgeous Yoruba bridal look with lace, a gele, and gold accessories. It’s a stunning way to showcase culture and beauty while looking like the most beautiful thing to exist.

LASTMA Officer

Join the road control team in a yellow uniform while holding your phone to snap photos of offenders’ number plates. This costume stands out with its distinctive yellow and maroon colours that everyone recognizes.

POS Attendant

Dress up as a POS operator in a casual tee and carry a mini card machine. Add a funny sign that says, “We Accept Transfer,” and finish the look with a fanny pack. People might even ask if you have cash available for withdrawal!

Denrele Edun

Get into your inner Denrele with wild boots, bold hairstyles, and high energy. His looks combine edgy and unforgettable styles. Choose your favorite and head to the party!

Ayra Starr

Recreate Ayra’s style with a sexy mini skirt, layered accessories, and plenty of attitude. She consistently stays fashionable, and her look is simple to replicate.

Chosen Member

Wear the well-known modest attire of a Chosen member, layering your clothes underneath their iconic neon green apron. This costume will make you the funniest person in the room.

Mama Nike of Nike Art Gallery

Put on an Ankara or Adire dress with bold, colorful jewelry. Wrap your head in a large, eye-catching gele to bring Mama Nike’s iconic style to life.

@ogas4

#fyf #nigeriacomedy #papaAjasco boy Alinko.

♬ original sound – OGAS4

Boy Alinco from Papa Ajasco and Company

Revisit this classic character with high-waisted trousers, suspenders, and a comical swagger that brings Boy Alinco’s charm to life. You must add the circular glasses to make it perfect.

Lagos Baddie

Be the ultimate Lagos Baddie with high heels, makeup, and the trendiest outfit in the room. Glam up, make a statement and be the hottest in the room.

Lagbaja

Wear a bold mask, flowing agbada, and carry a sax or drum. You’d look demure, mysterious and nostalgic. Definitely Halloween worthy.

Igbo Dancer

Go traditional with Igbo dancing attire: a red cap, beads, and patterned wrappers. Make it a complete look by dancing vigorously at the party.

Tola Martins from Iwájú

Add a futuristic Lagos twist by recreating Tola’s unique style from Iwájú. Go for a modern look with an orange tee, a cute ponytail, and a mix of Ankara and denim in blue. You can also wear the beautiful dress she wore for her birthday. You can’t go wrong with this one.

Omashola at the 2020 AMVCA

Nothing beats that skull-heavy outfit that trended everywhere in 2020. When you wear it, people will laugh and instantly recognize its origin. Who knows, you might trend again!

2024 Rema era

Dress like Rema in his “HEIS” era with layered clothing and bold accessories. Bring out his cool style and embody that bad-boy, Batman energy to complete the look.