A heated debate has erupted in the Nigerian shoemaking community after Akpaka NG, a skilled shoemaker from Port Harcourt, responded to a challenge from Lagos-based shoemaker Nelson. Nelson had recently gone viral for claiming to be Nigeria’s finest shoemaker and dared others to replicate one of his designs, offering a ₦100,000 cash prize.
Akpaka NG accepted the challenge and crafted the same shoe, sharing a detailed video of the process. In the video, he criticized Nelson’s assertion of being the best, highlighting the valuable contributions of many skilled artisans, including himself, to the Nigerian shoemaking industry.
Akpaka NG also pointed out flaws in Nelson’s original design, proclaiming himself the winner of the challenge and requesting that Nelson pay the promised ₦100,000 reward. The response has sparked a lively discussion among shoemaking enthusiasts, with many praising Akpaka NG’s skills and questioning Nelson’s claims.
The challenge has not only showcased the talents of Nigerian shoemakers but also highlighted the importance of humility and recognition of others’ skills in the industry.