The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), has stressed the significance of regulating and formalizing the music entertainment industry. They stand in solidarity with millions of African youths and music enthusiasts in mourning the unexpected passing of Nigeria’s pop sensation, Mohbad.
Mohbad passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. The police are currently investigating the cause of his death.
The 27-year-old, Mohbad, also known as Imole (Light), was a rising music star with immense promise. His creativity and exceptional talent led him to create electrifying lyrics that captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
The President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mike Dada, expressed his sorrow in a statement, emphasizing that Africa has tragically lost a budding talent in its thriving music industry.
He highlighted that prioritizing the formalization of the music and entertainment industry is crucial in addressing the unprofessional practices that have persisted within the African music industry.
He said: “On behalf of the International Committee of AFRIMA, we condole with Nigeria’s music industry, parents, and fans of Mohbad, over his painful demise.
“The death of Mohbad is a tragic event that has left us all deeply saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.”
“With his demise, Africa has lost a promising talent in our growing music and entertainment industry. We pray God to grant him eternal rest, and grant his parents, family, and teeming fans the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss.”
“AFRIMA is spearheading efforts to mobilize stakeholders in the creative industry in Africa, with a focus on Nigeria, to establish institutionalized operations and regulate the music entertainment industry.”
“It is necessary to have a law that regulates the music industry to prevent it from becoming an unregulated free-for-all, as currently, the entry requirements are low such that anyone can just wake up and establish a music record label.”
“To address this issue, African countries must establish a Music Institute to certify practitioners regularly.”
AFRIMA is utilizing its platform to orchestrate a stakeholder summit to involve the legislative branches of governments throughout Africa through the African Union.
“AFRIMA urges stakeholders, including relevant government officials and agencies, artistes, record labels, A&R, producers, promoters, artiste’s managers, brands, songwriters, DJs & video vixens, video directors, equipment production and rental companies, publishing companies, streaming service companies, entertainment lawyers, royalty companies among others, to participate in this crucial process. We urge stakeholders to submit their proposed legislation for review and consideration,” the AFRIMA President stated.