Ibadan, Nigeria - November 12, 2024
The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), under the leadership of National President Pretty Okafor, has taken decisive steps to enhance unity and collaboration within the Association. During a recent visit to Ibadan, Mr. Okafor met with Western Zone leadership, including Zonal leaders, State Chapter Governors, and some State Chapter Secretaries, to address members’ concerns, discuss challenges, and chart a course for future cooperation. The Western Zone Chapter Governors extended this invitation to acknowledge Mr. Okafor’s accomplishments, particularly commending the ongoing PMAN Abuja project, the acquisition of the Nigerian Music House, and other infrastructure initiatives. They pledged their full support for PMAN under his leadership, recognizing the positive impact of his tenure as President.
The meeting gathered notable PMAN Western Zone leaders and key representatives, including:
Dr. Ola Jombo, Chairman Western Zone
Evangelist Remi Aderoju, Secretary Western Zone
Comrade Mutiu Ayeloja Manadex, Treasurer Western Zone
Alhaji Adisa Owala, Chapter Governor, Kwara State
Prince Abiodun Adegoroye, Chapter Governor, Ogun State
Chief Olalere Adankara, Chapter Governor, Ekiti State
Alhaji Azeez Ibrahim, Chapter Governor, Osun State
Comrade Jide Abiade Murphy, Chapter Governor, Ondo State
Comrade Taiwo Omotunde, Chapter Governor, Oyo State
Lola Olamuyiwa, Chapter Governor, Lagos State
Alhaji Tajudeen Olalekan (Loko White), Chapter Secretary, Kwara State
Comrade Adeolu Afolami, Chapter Secretary, Oyo State
Comrade Temitope Opeyemi Ogunjobi, Chapter Secretary, Osun State
Comrade Olujimi Oyewusi, Chapter Secretary, Ogun State
Also in attendance were Elizabeth Khara Gabriel, Esq., Acting General Secretary of PMAN; Comrade Kareem Azeez Osoba, Immediate Past Chapter Governor of Lagos State; Alhaji Tijani Adesina Fatai, Immediate Past Deputy Chapter Governor of Lagos State; Adekunbi Alamu Bamigbaye (“Alhaji Fancy”); Mr. Azubuike Enebeli; and Mr. Henrie Eduozor, Esq.
The meeting commenced with a welcoming address by Western Zone Chairman Dr. Ola Jombo and Secretary Evangelist Remi Aderoju. Expressing his appreciation, Mr. Okafor stated, “This is my first time attending a Western Zone meeting, and I am here to listen and take steps to address any issues impacting our members.”
During an open forum, the State Chapter Governors expressed their appreciation for Mr. Okafor’s passionate and result-oriented leadership style. They also shared perspectives on the Association’s impact, governance, and recent challenges, with many calling for enhanced collaboration, financial transparency, and support from the National body. Key areas of discussion included:
Strengthening Chapter Autonomy and Accountability: Chapter Governors, including Prince Abiodun Adegoroye (Ogun) and Comrade Jide Abiade Murphy (Ondo), emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making and called for increased financial and operational support from the National body.
Reconciliation and Inclusivity: Members advocated for a reconciliatory approach, urging PMAN to bridge divides and foster inclusivity across all leadership levels.
Operational Improvements: Leaders proposed various initiatives to improve state representation, local registration processes, and collaboration with National offices. They also suggested establishing liaison offices in Abuja and implementing online registration for members.
Commitment to Peace and Unity: Several Chapter Governors, including Alhaji Adisa Owala (Kwara) and Chief Olalere Adankara (Ekiti), encouraged the National leadership to prioritize lasting peace and avoid actions that could disrupt PMAN’s mission.
Concluding the meeting, Mr. Okafor reaffirmed his commitment to addressing members' concerns, promising greater transparency and inclusivity. “I recognize the challenges and grievances you’ve raised today,” he said. “My goal is to bring PMAN closer to its members and to build a stronger, united Association.”
The Western Zone Governors concluded the session by pledging their full support for Mr. Okafor’s vision for PMAN and committing to align with the Association’s core values in their respective Chapters.
PMAN remains dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of musicians across Nigeria. This meeting represents a critical step toward strengthening PMAN’s support structure and operational effectiveness for all State Chapters.
Elizabeth Khara Gabriel, Esq.
Acting General Secretary, PMAN
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