Fola Francis, a well-known transgender model in Nigeria, passed away.

According to reports, the fashion designer and LGBT activist drowned on December 20, 2023, at Lagos’ IIashe Beach.

Journalist Vincent Desmond made the announcement of her passing in a statement on Friday.

For many others, including us, Fola Francis served as a ray of hope and brightness. Her departure has caused us much pain.

“Her friends and family request privacy at this time, but there will be a memorial which will be discussed at a later date,” he said.

Fola was the first transgender person from Nigeria to walk the runways at Cute-Saint and Fruché during Lagos Fashion Week.