The Art of Migration: How Obinna Obioma Uses Fashion to Reclaim Identity

Migration is more than just movement—it carries stories, memories, and identity across borders. Nigerian photographer Obinna Obioma captures this essence in his project Anyi N’aga (We Are Going), a creative exploration of migration and heritage through the iconic Ghana Must Go bag. This project transforms an everyday object associated with displacement into a high-fashion statement, redefining its symbolism and artistic value.

The Ghana Must Go Bag: A Symbol of Migration

For many West Africans, the Ghana Must Go bag is more than just a storage item; it is a powerful emblem of migration. The name originates from the 1980s mass expulsion of Ghanaians from Nigeria, when thousands carried their belongings in these checkered bags as they fled the country. Over time, this bag has come to represent the experience of displacement, resilience, and cultural exchange. In Anyi N’aga, Obinna Obioma elevates this familiar object into a storytelling tool that challenges perceptions of migration and identity.

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Fashion as a Narrative Tool

In collaboration with visual artist Chioma Obiegbu and fashion stylist Wuraola Oladapo, both based in New York, Obinna Obioma reimagines the Ghana Must Go bag into avant-garde fashion pieces. The designs blend Western and African influences, creating two-piece outfits where structured, modern tops contrast with traditional West African-inspired skirts. This juxtaposition mirrors the experiences of migrants—adapting to new cultures while holding onto their roots.

Through conceptual photography, Obioma presents migration as a dynamic process of transformation rather than loss. The images reflect how migrants carry their heritage, language, and traditions with them, reshaping identities along the way.

Cultural Exchange and Identity

Beyond its artistic value, Anyi N’aga sparks conversations about migration in today’s world. The Ghana Must Go bag, once viewed as a symbol of hardship, is reclaimed and celebrated as a cultural artifact of resilience. Obinna Obioma’s work highlights how migrants leave behind certain aspects of their culture while incorporating new influences, ultimately creating something unique and hybrid.

His project aligns with broader themes of globalization, displacement, and belonging, making it not just a fashion experiment but also a socio-political statement.

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Conclusion

Obinna Obioma’s Anyi N’aga is a groundbreaking fusion of fashion, photography, and storytelling. By repurposing a symbol of migration into a statement of beauty and pride, he challenges outdated narratives and redefines the meaning of movement. Through his lens, migration is not just about leaving—it’s about evolving, adapting, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that shape our world.

What do you think about using everyday objects to tell powerful stories? Share your thoughts in the comments!