USA4RECORDS recently interviewed one of the famous Abuja based Graphic designers Umar Muktar popularly known as SOTA, he is no doubt among the eminent and most talented graphic designers in the city of Abuja.
Umar also known as SOTA is the 3rd child of an extended family; he hails from Niger State, started elementary and high school in Abuja in early 1994 after which he went to study Political Science at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai, Niger State.
How did it began?
At a very tender age I made comics at the back of my notebooks, gradually I started drawing portraits especially buildings, there was nothing like AUTOCard then, civil engineers draw building plans on papers and because I had this architect as a neighbor he did put me through in every aspect of drawing. In the university I moved to the digital world of graphic designs, I designed show posters, customized shirts and at some point I even had my shoes customized with my logo.
How did you come about the name SOTA and what does it mean?
Well, as at now my company name is no longer SOTA Designs, and as a matter of fact am preparing to change the company name to UMRAH Graphics and have actually applied for availability and registration of name already…. Nevertheless, SOTA means SON OF THE ART, in early 2008 I met my boss, my friend and a mentor, the founder and CEO of MOTA Design studios, then I was actually looking for someone to put me through on Photoshop, while working one day we paused and were kind of thinking of a name to call myself I suggested something I can’t even recall right now, at the long run we agreed on “SOTA” and few years later I registered my company with the same name.
I believe you are popularly known as SOTA, why the change of company name?
I have said this last week in an interview, I found out that a large number of upcoming graphic designers are actually using the name SOTA Designs, this was really bringing a sort of confusion and even though I strongly believe that SOTA Designs was first registered by me, I still don’t feel I should prosecute anyone, I take them all as fans.
What have you been up to lately?
Thought I could keep this a secret though!!! Lol… Well am about to launch my very own printing company as well as photographic studio, the first of its kind in Kubwa, will be centered at printing of flex banners and billboards, posters, souvenirs, cooperate branding mention but few.
Are you in a relationship?
It is no secret, am in love with Hajara Abdulkadir, we’ve been dating for almost 5years now, and as a matter of fact she’s been a blessing to me. Basically, the new company name “UMRAH” has everything to do with her, the “UM” was deducted from my first name “UMAR” while the “RAH” was from her name “HAJARAH”. So any one that’s ever going to impersonate or steal this name has a whole lot of explanations to do. Lol
What were the greatest influence while growing up?
My greatest influences while growing up were my parent especially my dad, he makes me feel like I can move mountains, he gave me a lot of courage and I grew up with the believe that I can do anything anyone has ever done and even do it better.
What is your most expensive possession?
My Italian blazer, my Omega Wrist watch and Cheeky Italian shoe
What makes you stand out in your field?
My originality and simplicity
Tell us something no one knows about you
Am a very simple and easy going person, am down to earth and very straight forward. In addition to what people don’t know about me is that am a gymnast right from childhood, could remember back then in school? Lol, I was actually called Master…
Advice to upcoming graphic designers
"Be original, simple and creative. Always remember you will have to learn before you earn and finally never never give up".
What is your mantra?
SUBHANALLAH. Lol, I even say it when not necessary.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5years?
In the next 5years I see myself owning the biggest Graphic school, a professional and biggest printing company in Abuja and a happily married man. . . .
Final words?
I will use this medium to thank everyone that has contributed positively and also supported me in achieving my dreams. I love you all so much.
Connect with UMRAH Graphics via:
Twitter: @UMRAH_graphics
Instagram: @UMRAH_graphics
umrahgraphics@gmail.com