A&R executive and talent manager, Ameen Oyindamola, has tasked Nigerian youths and entrepreneurs to build a strategic relationship in the creative industry, emphasising that while talents open doors of opportunity, strategic relationships keep them open.

In a keynote address delivered at the just-concluded Digital Professional Fair 2025 held at Landmark Hall, Victoria Island, Oyindamola hinted that acquiring skills is no longer sufficient to stay afloat in the changing digital world. According to him, building a strategic relationship remains the key to success in delivering consistent high-quality output, effective communication and global standard alignment.

Sharing insight in his session “ Building Strategic Relationships In The Creative Industry“, Oyindamola laid emphasis on the significance of networking as a pathway to opportunities, encouraged the development of strong business skills, and advised participants to stay adaptable to new technologies and develop the audacity to enter spaces where they are not known.

He warned that waiting to be ready in the entertainment industry amounts to losing a valuable slot, while urging artists to engage in digital presence by putting up a good online presence and allow ideas to travel digitally.

The Krizbeatz boss stressed that the fastest way to gain influence is through genuine contribution, and urged Nigerian youths and other intending entrepreneurs to volunteer their skills at industry events or help mentors with side projects.

“These acts are seeds that can lead to significant collaborations. I secured an early big project by volunteering at a music showcase, ” he said.

Speaking on Work Shadowing & Mentorship, Oyindamola urged participants to learn by proximity, saying “Observe those doing what you aspire to. Learn how they handle calls, negotiate, and manage crises. Let your work speak for itself. A mentor should see you as an investment, not a favour.

He stressed the role of integrity in achieving success in the digital world, describing integrity as the only currency that doesn’t devalue in a recession.

“In our industry, your name travels faster than your work. Integrity, make sure you deliver on your promises, give credit where it’s due, honour agreements, and protect confidences. People will introduce you when they trust you, ” he said.

The A&R executive told entrepreneurs to serve and seek mentors, stressing that services must be rendered with humility, discipline, and an industry ecosystem before coming to the spotlight in the digital world.