AMAN unveils plans to celebrate 30th Anniversary, support young creatives

The Association of Artistes Managers in Nigeria (AMAN) has unveiled plans to ensure young creative talents get the needed push to excel in their chosen craft. This was announced at a media briefing in Lagos recently.

Held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event, which coincided with the birthday of the President of AMAN, Collins Ifeanyi Onwuneme Ajereh Enebeli, a.k.a. Mavin Grandpa, who was in attendance, was also a celebration of not just the achievements of the association in promoting and repositioning the industry, but also the immense contributions of Mavin Grandpa to the growth of the industry.

Anchored by the Global Spokesperson of AMAN, Karifest Duchess, the event also had in attendance, the CEO of Premier Records, Mr. Michael Odion, veteran actor, Emeka Ossai; celebrated female drummer, singer, and Governor of PMAN, Lagos State Chapter, Aralola Olamuyiwa commonly known by her stage name Ara; Rema’s Manager, Sean Okeke; CEO of Brownehill Radio, an online radio station, Raymond Bola Browne; members of the executives of the association, and several other dignitaries.

Speaking, the AMAN president expressed appreciation for the support and efforts of members as well as other stakeholders. He noted that AMAN was officially registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission in 1995 to further the interests of creatives across the nation, providing “vital support and resources, including mentorship, professional networking opportunities, and advocacy for artistes’ rights.

“The certificate was signed precisely on March 28, 1995, which means that come next year 2025, this organisation will be 30 years. Three decades is not a joke, and for an organisation to be existing and still remaining focused in its original agenda and objectives, it means there must be more to it than meets the eyes,” he said.

He recalled that prior to AMAN being registered; they had worked as a group of cooperatives and functionaries within the creative industries. “Even though at the time, the term ‘creative industries’ wasn’t popularly used, we had just show business hopefuls that wanted to mingle around people who have anything to do with show business and entertainment in general. And we put ourselves together in a platform called Artist Managers and Music Promoters.

“For about five years, we were working together trying to figure out the vision and ideally what this organisation will do to contribute towards nation building in the area of show business and entertainment. At about that time, those who go into show business were not being treated with much respect. All that are in the past now.

“With that said, since 1995, after we had put together all the relevant paper works, spelling out in clear terms our objectives, to see that we create a platform that would bring creatives together, not just artistes – musicians, actors, – or painters, we wanted a group of people who would like to professionalise their services when working with creatives. And we know that even if you’re a musician or actor or someone who has talent in any of these creative endeavours you definitely will require management for you to do well or better than you were doing before.”

Speaking on the lineup of activities for 2025, he said: “The second edition of the AMAN Awards will hold November 26, 2025, and it will be a more elaborate, detailed and more grand event. This second edition of AMAN Awards will also be used to celebrate AMAN at 30. That means 30 years of our corporate existence and this press conference is to signal the countdown to that grand celebration.”

AMAN awards are an esteemed recognition initiative established by AMAN to honour and celebrate the hard work and achievements of individuals within Nigeria’s creative industries.

These awards aim to appreciate and reward excellence across various sectors, from music and film to fashion and visual arts. By spotlighting the diverse players in the creative space, the AMAN Awards encourage a culture of excellence and inspire others to strive for greatness both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The AMAN President also emphasised the organisation’s groundbreaking approach to professional development through its innovative orientation masterclasses. These specialised sessions provide participants with critical insights into their creative journey and the evolving landscape of remote work.

The programme is designed to equip professionals with essential skills and knowledge, offering a strategic heads-up about challenges and opportunities in their chosen creative fields.

By addressing the current trends in professional environments, AMAN’s orientation classes aim to prepare participants for success in an increasingly digital and dynamic workplace.

From programme development to mentorship and industry engagement, the team is dedicated to supporting members at every level of their journey. Through strategic planning and continuous innovation, AMAN’s team strives to create opportunities, facilitate growth, and empower creatives across the country: building a resilient community and setting new standards for excellence in the creative arts.

“We actively engage in initiatives that enhance skill development, promote collaboration, and elevate the global profile of Nigerian artistes,” said the president.