Sir James Oluwole Akintola’s name is synonymous with the Tailoring Factory, Methodist Church Nigeria. He has remained a prominent figure in the design and creation of sacred vestments in Nigeria. Sir Akintola, at 70, stands as a testament to the enduring significance of sacred beauty in worship and in his artistry, blending sacred tradition with contemporary expression. Sir Akintola, at 70, brings to the fore his personal and spiritual connection, highlighting the deep faith that often drives designers, transforming their craft into a spiritual vocation.

Sir Akintola’s name resonates with notable designers like Patrick Boylan, who was celebrated for ‘sophisticated colour, design, and wearable, hand-done vestments, bridging historical depth with practical wearability’; Gammarelli, the historic papal tailor, creating iconic attire for conclaves, a testament to enduring tradition, and Filippo Sorcinelli, ‘known for contemporary elegance and simplicity, creating vestments for Popes Francis and Benedict XVI, blending Byzantine mosaics with modern needs.’

Sir Akintola was born on January 2, 1956, in Ipetu Ijesha, in the present-day Osun State, Nigeria. Growing up in Ipetu Ijesha, Sir James received his elementary education at St. Paul’s Primary School. His pursuit of knowledge and skills led him to the Rasco Institute, where he learned the art of tailoring. In September 1975, seeking greater opportunities, he moved to Lagos, where he soon secured a position at the Methodist Headquarters in December of the same year.

Sir Akintola’s career at the Methodist Headquarters saw him excel in various roles, starting as an office attendant. In 1977, he was posted to the Patriarch’s office as a receptionist, where his trustworthiness and sincerity caught the Patriarch’s attention. Recognising his potential, the Patriarch planned to send him abroad to learn how to sew the robes of Reverend Ministers. Although initial efforts to secure a training opportunity abroad were unsuccessful, God answered Sir James’s prayers in 1980 when the Patriarch travelled to San Francisco, USA, and met with Reverend Father Joseph Leo, who agreed to train him. The training expanded Sir Akintola’s creative repertoire and his style of the vestments, drawing inspiration from medieval times, leading to creations that have since inspired many other designers of sacred vestments in Nigeria.

Sir Akintola once shared his reflections on working with Patriarch Bolaji Idowu, describing him as “a gift to the body of Christ, talented, a surprising, and consistent man” who embraced a sober yet profound approach to his public presence. Sir Akintola aligned his design philosophy with the vision established by Patriarch Bolaji Idowu, emphasizing “noble simplicity.”

Sir Akintola explained that, under the advice of Rt Rev Sunday Mbang, then-Chaplain to Patriarch Bolaji Idowu, Reverend Father Joseph Leo travelled to Nigeria to train a group of aspiring tailors. This training initiative in 1980 marked a significant milestone, as it led to the establishment of the Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN) Tailoring Service in August of that year. Sir James and Mr. James Udoh were appointed as Master Tailors in charge, and by 1984, Sir Akintola advanced to the role of Production Manager, eventually becoming the Company Manager in 1990.

Sir James has been actively involved in church activities, serving as the Youth Treasurer, President of the Circuit and Diocese, and later as the Diocesan Lay President for Lagos North. His dedication to the church and community has left a lasting impact on many lives. After a successful career, Sir James retired in 2006 and has since continued to inspire others with his story of perseverance and faith. In 2012, Sir Akintola was recalled by the leadership of the Methodist Church to serve as a consultant to the Tailoring Factory, which he agreed to and did his best to put the factory in good standing.

Sir Akintola’s atelier is known for its collaboration with the liturgical celebrations of the Methodist episcopacy, having worked closely with Patriarch Professor Bolaji Idowu, the father of Methodist episcopacy, since the early days of his patriarchy. Sir Akintola’s creations include the sacred garments worn during significant Methodist celebrations, including Prelate’s investiture, bishops’ consecration and enthronements, Presbyters’ preferments, priest ordinations, and Awards ceremonies, among others.

Sir Akintola, at 70, exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity in the realm of sacred vestments. His lifelong dedication to craftsmanship and the sacred continues to inspire the Church and the broader community, marking a significant chapter in the evolution of contemporary liturgical art and design.

Sir Akintola, at 70, invites us to acknowledge his role in sacred artistry: ‘creating vestments as an extension of faith, turning fabric into a visual language of devotion, as seen with designers who create meaningful narratives for creation or Pentecost.’ Sir Akintola, at 70, is about an enduring legacy that bridges tradition and modernity, respecting and innovating ancient Christian symbolism such as lambs, lilies, and doves. Sir Akintola, at 70, foregrounds craftsmanship and materiality. Based on the fashion brand, Sir Akintola’s creation strikes a perfect balance between solemnity, devotion, discipline, and aesthetic as well as iconographic codes.’

I am a witness to Sir Akintola’s focus on exquisite details, handwork, and the choice of rich fabrics, silks, velvets, and gold threads that elevate vestments beyond mere clothing to sacred art. On three occasions, for the purchase of vestment materials for our church’s new leaders, Sir Akintola has connected me with a British firm, J. Wippell & Co., a major supplier of vestment materials to the Anglican Church, the Church of Scotland, and various Episcopal, Methodist, and Baptist churches globally. Sadly, Wippell & Co. ceased operation at the end of 2023 after over 230 years in business. Wippell was a historic manufacturer of handmade vestments, cassocks, altar frontals, and academic gowns, with locations in Exeter and Westminster in the UK, as well as a US branch in New Jersey. Another notable supplier is Watts & Co, London, a fellow ecclesiastical outfitter who acquired Wippells in June 2024.

Sir Akintola is a distinguished figure whose journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a commitment to service. Celebrating his 70th birthday on January 2, 2026, Sir James’s life story is a testament to his unwavering faith and industrious spirit. Sir Akintola is blessed with a wonderful and amiable wife, good children and wonderful grandchildren.

Worthy is the Lamb!