Actor Tayo Faniran and actress Idia Aisien came on stage together on Sunday, September 24, 2023, to announce the names of the nominees for the 17th edition of the Future Awards Africa.

 

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The theme for this year’s event is “Defying Odds, Inspiring Greatness“, which perfectly represents what the awards aim to celebrate.

The list of nominees is truly impressive. It showcases individuals who have achieved great success and overcome obstacles in their respective fields. Some well-known names on the list include Enioluwa Adeoluwa, who is a content creator, Hilda Baci, a chef with a Guinness World Record, Jumoke Dada, an acclaimed entrepreneur, Tobi Amusan, a track and field sensation from Nigeria, Asake, a singer-songwriter, Broda Shaggi, a popular comedian, Omonhinmin ‘Ilo’ Ilooise, a star from MTV’s VJ search, and many more.

The organizers have put together a list that truly represents the spirit of defying norms and making a lasting impact on youth culture throughout Africa.

In total, there were 128 individuals nominated across 25 different categories, and their selection process involved three rigorous judging stages.

See the complete list of nominees below:

AFRIMMA (African Muzik Magazine Awards) has expressed deep sadness over the untimely loss of the Nigerian Street Hop sensation, Mohbad. The organization has emphasized the significance of regulating and institutionalizing the music entertainment industry in light of Mohbad’s tragic demise.

Mohbad, a 27-year-old musician also known as “Imole” (Light), had shown immense promise in his career, captivating fans worldwide with his creativity and captivating lyrics. His unexpected demise on September 12, 2023, has sent shockwaves through the music industry and left millions of fans in grief.

President and Executive Producer of AFRIMMA Mike Dada sent his sympathies to Mohbad’s family, the Nigerian music industry, and his fans. He lamented the passing of potential talent and urged further institutionalisation of the music and entertainment industry in Africa.

Dada emphasised that institutionalisation is essential to achieve the goal of curbing the unprofessional practices within the industry.

AFRIMMA is actively trying to organise stakeholders in the creative industry, especially in Nigeria, in order to establish regulated operations and guarantee the industry’s professional development.

He highlighted the necessity of music industry regulation to prevent it from degenerating into an unregulated free-for-all, citing the low entry requirements that currently allow anyone to establish a music record label without proper oversight. To address this issue, African countries should establish Music Institutes to regularly certify industry practitioners.

AFRIMMA has urged various stakeholders, including government officials, artists, record labels, producers, promoters, and other professionals in the entertainment industry, to actively participate in this crucial process by submitting proposed legislation for review and discussion.

Furthermore, given that there have been accusations of foul play, AFRIMMA’s worries are consistent with the Nigerian Police’s current investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.

The music industry, both in Nigeria and internationally, have paid tribute to the late Street Hop sensation, whose music is currently seeing a rebirth in popularity.

Check here for more news update.

Gamma, an artist-focused multimedia platform, has made a big advancement by extending its reach into Africa, with Nigeria chosen as its operational headquarters.

Gamma is a platform that prioritises artists first and provides a variety of business and creative services in a wide range of artistic and commercial formats.

Based in Los Angeles and with offices in major global cities such as New York, London, Miami, Nashville, and Dubai, Gamma has now extended its presence to Nigeria, signalling its commitment to recognizing Nigeria as a music export leader on the African continent.

As part of its expansion into Africa, Gamma has appointed Nigerian songwriter, recording artist, and music executive, Larry Gaaga as its Vice President and General Manager for West Africa.

This strategic move reflects the company’s determination to make Nigeria its operational hub, challenging the traditional preference for South Africa as the base for international labels and brands in the region.

By establishing its headquarters in Nigeria, Gamma hopes to strengthen the regional foundation established by its digital distribution arm, Vydia, as well as promote a two-way interchange of culture and opportunities for artists globally.

Gamma’s President for Africa and the Middle East, Sipho Dlamini, emphasised the company’s mission to develop indigenous talent and make them into international superstars. He highlighted Larry Gaaga’s historical background and cultural proficiency as being essential qualities for building the networks and assets required for Gamma’s success across the continent.

In his new position, Larry Gaaga will be in charge of Gamma’s operations across the entire African Continent. Through partnerships and collaborations, he will provide strategic direction and oversee projects targeted at fostering local talent, assuring their success both within Africa and on the international stage.

The CEO of Gamma, Larry Jackson, welcomed Larry Gaaga’s appointment, citing his profound understanding of the local music landscapes and his commitment to nurturing talent as valuable additions to the Gamma team.

Naomi Campbell, a prominent figure in the global entertainment community and Special Advisor to Gamma, played a crucial role in facilitating the partnership between Larry Gaaga and the company. She praised Larry Gaaga as an artistically brilliant figure with boundless potential.

Larry Gaaga expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Gamma’s Vice President and General Manager of Africa. He views this position as a rare chance to advance the entertainment business on the whole continent, support local talent, and introduce the world to the extraordinary originality and diversity of African artists.

The African music and entertainment sector is likely to be significantly impacted by this decision by Gamma.