The Nigerian music industry is booming—and it’s no accident. Behind the chart-topping hits and viral sensations is a powerful network of visionaries driving Afrobeats’ global domination. The TurnTable 2024 Power List shines a spotlight on the individuals shaping this cultural movement, from the boardrooms to the streets. These are the executives, managers, and tastemakers turning ambitions into reality—breaking new artistes, closing historic deals, and pushing creative boundaries.

This year’s list highlights the people behind the music that’s defining today’s sound. From the rising stars capturing our attention to the heavyweights commanding global stages, these power players are at the heart of it all. They’re the architects behind the success of breakout sensations like Fido, Ayo Maff, and Llona—nurturing raw talent and transforming fresh voices into household names. At the same time, they’re steering the careers of Afrobeats giants like Seyi Vibez, Asake, and Rema—crafting innovative strategies, brokering landmark partnerships, and ensuring Nigerian music resonates on a worldwide scale.

But this list isn’t just about who’s on top right now—it’s about the trailblazers building the future of African music. Whether they’re leading major labels, empowering independent artistes, or expanding the global reach of African sounds, these industry leaders are shaping what comes next. As Afrobeats continues to break barriers and reach new heights, the names on this list are the driving force behind the movement—ensuring the world keeps listening.

1. Peter Tega Oghenejobo – President & COO of Mavin Records (Executive of the Year, 2024) “I am often praised for being able to spot and raise superstars, but I can proudly say the most genius thing I have done in my life was being able to spot the passion and resilience in Tega,” – Don Jazzy.

Peter Tega Oghenejobo’s journey to the top of Mavin Records is a story of resilience, vision, and a deep understanding of the music ecosystem. His career in the industry started during his university years when he joined the Mo’Hits street team, helping to push the label’s music to every corner of Warri, Delta State. His dedication caught the attention of Don Jazzy, and when Mavin Records was established in 2012, Tega became D’Prince’s road manager, quickly proving his worth as a strategic thinker and operational leader.

In 2025, Tega holds the prestigious title of President & COO of Mavin Records, where he spearheads the company’s creative direction and business operations. Under his leadership, Mavin has become home to some of the biggest names in African music, including Rema, Ayra Starr, and Crayon. Tega’s work extends beyond artiste management—he is an industry power player who has been instrumental in securing international partnerships, major licensing deals, and ensuring Mavin stays ahead in the rapidly evolving Afrobeats landscape.

2. Mobolaji Kareem – Regional Head of EMPIRE, West Africa (Executive of the Year, 2021) At the helm of EMPIRE West Africa, Mobolaji Kareem plays a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the region and its growing influence on the global stage. His ability to identify and cultivate new talent has been a game-changer for African music. Notably, he played an essential role in the success of Ruger and Bnxn’s collaborative project ‘RnB,’ which produced several chart-topping singles, including the No. 1 hit "POE".

Kareem’s leadership style blends innovation with cultural authenticity, ensuring that West African artistes maintain their unique voices while reaching new audiences worldwide. His commitment to artiste development and his strategic vision has made EMPIRE West Africa a dominant force, with a roster that includes both emerging talent and some of the region’s most celebrated heavyweights. Beyond his executive duties, Kareem remains a passionate advocate for African music, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, collaboration, and community building to propel the industry forward.

3. Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi – Founder & CEO of Dapper Group (Executive of the Year, 2023) Damilola "Dapper" Akinwunmi has redefined how African artists break into the mainstream with an unconventional and artiste-first approach. As the Founder and CEO of Dapper Music & Entertainment, he is responsible for catapulting artistes like Seyi Vibez, Shallipopi, and T.I BLAZE to stardom. His sharp instinct for recognizing raw talent combined with his innovative release strategies has made Dapper Group one of the most influential independent companies in the Nigerian music scene.

Since establishing Dapper Group in 2018, Akinwunmi has focused on empowering artistes by providing them with distribution, marketing, and strategic support. His unique approach is perhaps best exemplified by Seyi Vibez’s meteoric rise, fueled by an aggressive release schedule and a heavy emphasis on digital platforms. Through his work, Akinwunmi continues to reshape the industry, offering a blueprint for independent success while pushing the boundaries of how African music is marketed and consumed globally.

 Asa Asika – Co-Founder of The Plug, Manager to Davido Asa Asika is one of the most recognizable figures in the Nigerian music industry, thanks to his long-standing role as Davido’s manager and his influence as the co-founder of The Plug. Asika’s career began in his teenage years, promoting music at events before organically transitioning into artiste management. His ability to anticipate industry trends and build long-lasting relationships has made him a kingmaker in the Afrobeats ecosystem.

Through The Plug, Asika has expanded his impact beyond artiste management into event curation, distribution, and sports management. He has played a significant role in shaping the global perception of Afrobeats, helping Davido achieve international milestones while supporting the careers of new-generation stars. With his deep industry knowledge and entrepreneurial mindset, Asika continues to bridge the gap between African music and the global stage.

5. Abuchi Peter Ugwu – CEO of Chocolate City Music As CEO of Chocolate City Music, Abuchi Peter Ugwu has the critical task of preserving the label’s legacy while ushering in a new era of creativity and innovation. His career spans over a decade, beginning with audio engineering before transitioning to operations and management. His comprehensive understanding of the music business has made him an ideal leader for one of Africa’s most storied labels.

Under Ugwu’s leadership, Chocolate City Music has redefined its sound while maintaining its core identity. With a roster that includes Blaqbonez and Young Jonn, he is focused on artiste development and creative autonomy. Beyond that, Ugwu has successfully navigated the digital era, ensuring that Chocolate City remains competitive by embracing streaming, digital marketing, and global partnerships. His strategic insight continues to strengthen the label’s position as a major cultural force.

6. Olukorede "Kay" Ikazoboh – Head of Virgin Music Nigeria Olukorede "Kay" Ikazoboh, known professionally as Kimani Moore, is redefining the music distribution landscape as the Head of Virgin Music Nigeria. Her journey from managing emerging artistes to leading one of the most influential music companies is marked by a passion for amplifying African creativity. With a sharp business mind and an eye for talent, Kimani has been instrumental in securing major partnerships and expanding Virgin Music’s presence in Nigeria’s competitive music market.

One of her most notable achievements is the strategic collaboration with Dapper Music & Entertainment, which positioned Virgin Music Nigeria as a leader in streaming market share. Her ability to identify and cultivate future superstars has helped shape the careers of artistes like Seyi Vibez. Kimani Moore’s leadership reflects a commitment to artiste empowerment, providing a platform where African talent can thrive on their terms while reaching audiences worldwide.

7. Bose Ogulu – CEO of Spaceship Collective, Manager to Burna Boy Known affectionately as Mama Burna, Bose Ogulu is a powerhouse executive whose influence extends far beyond managing her superstar son, Burna Boy. As the CEO of Spaceship Collective, she oversees one of the most innovative independent labels in Africa. Her work has been instrumental in shaping Burna Boy’s narrative—from his early struggles to Grammy-winning success—and in advocating for African artistes’ rights on a global scale.

Her career is deeply rooted in music and cultural preservation, inspired by her father, Benson Idonije, who managed Fela Kuti. With a no-nonsense approach and a commitment to African identity, Ogulu has helped Burna Boy break barriers while encouraging female representation in the industry. Through Spaceship Collective, she continues to foster creativity, manage intellectual property rights, and create pathways for future African superstars.

8. Eze Ezegozie Jr – VP Strategy & Market Development, EMPIRE Africa (Executive of the Year, 2022) Eze Ezegozie is a strategic powerhouse behind the African expansion of EMPIRE, one of the world’s most influential music distribution companies. As Vice President of Strategy & Market Development for Africa, he has been instrumental in forging partnerships that amplify African music on a global scale. With a background that spans roles at Universal Music Group Nigeria and as a DJ and promoter, Eze brings a multifaceted approach to the business. His ability to merge cultural authenticity with corporate strategy has positioned EMPIRE as a dominant force in African music.

One of Eze’s standout achievements includes fostering partnerships with heavyweight artistes such as Asake, Kizz Daniel, and Black Sherif. He also played a significant role in supporting breakout talents like Ayo Maff, facilitating their growth through innovative distribution models and global marketing strategies. Eze’s vision extends beyond commercial success—he is committed to empowering African artistes to retain creative control while reaching audiences worldwide. His work continues to shape the future of African music in the digital era, bridging the gap between local talent and international recognition.

9. Temi Adeniji – Managing Director of Warner Music Africa Temi Adeniji is a trailblazing executive reshaping the African music industry through her leadership at Warner Music Africa. As the Managing Director, she oversees the label’s operations across the continent, driving growth while fostering a supportive environment for African artistes. With a background in law and a career trajectory that includes key positions at Warner’s global offices, Adeniji brings a rare combination of legal expertise and industry acumen to her role. Her strategic approach focuses on ensuring African artistes maintain cultural authenticity while achieving commercial success on the world stage.

Under Adeniji’s leadership, Warner Music Africa has expanded its roster and established partnerships that elevate African music globally. Her initiatives extend beyond music distribution to include artiste empowerment programs and investments in local infrastructure. By championing African talent and building sustainable frameworks, Temi Adeniji is shaping a future where African music is not just part of the global conversation—it is leading it.

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10. Cecil & Keke Hammond – CEO & COO of Flytime Cecil Hammond, the CEO of Flytime Promotions, alongside Keke Hammond, has been a dominant force in Nigeria’s live entertainment sector for nearly two decades. Flytime Promotions is synonymous with world-class concert experiences, hosting some of the most anticipated shows during the festive "Detty December" season. Their commitment to delivering premium entertainment has brought international superstars like Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B to Nigeria while also elevating local talents such as Wizkid and Burna Boy.

Cecil’s visionary leadership, combined with Keke’s operational expertise, has cemented Flytime as a market leader in event production and talent promotion. The annual Flytime Music Festival continues to set the benchmark for large-scale live events in Africa. Their ability to blend global production standards with an authentic Nigerian experience keeps Flytime at the forefront of the industry, making their concerts a staple for music lovers across the continent.

11. Osagie Osarenkhoe – Director of African Operations at ONErpm A trailblazer in the African music scene, Osagie Osarenkhoe has over 15 years of experience transforming how African artistes navigate the global music business. She began her career managing Wizkid and has since evolved into a key decision-maker for ONErpm, where she leads African operations. Osarenz has been pivotal in expanding ONErpm’s reach, opening offices across Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.

Her work focuses on empowering independent artistes, offering distribution services while providing strategic guidance. Osarenkhoe‘s expertise in A&R, marketing, and artiste advocacy makes her one of the most important behind-the-scenes players in the African music space. Her ability to identify emerging talent and help them navigate global markets continues to push the industry forward, ensuring African music remains a dominant cultural export.

12. Tobi Mohammed – Founder of Mainland Block Party, Managing Partner at The Plug Tobi Mohammed has emerged as a key figure in Nigeria’s entertainment scene through his innovative work at Mainland Block Party and The Plug. As the founder of Mainland Block Party, he created a cultural movement that celebrates youth culture, blending music, fashion, and community in dynamic, immersive experiences. His ability to spot trends and nurture emerging artists has made him an influential tastemaker, fostering a platform where underground talent gains visibility.

In his role as Managing Partner at The Plug, Tobi has expanded his influence beyond live events to artiste management and label services. He is credited with helping shape the careers of rising stars like Victony, whose genre-defying sound is pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats. Tobi’s vision is rooted in building bridges between local talent and global audiences, using platforms like Mainland Block Party to amplify diverse voices. His work reflects a commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of African creatives.

13. Sean Okeke – Manager to Rema Sean Okeke, manager to the global Afrobeats sensation Rema and Head of Operations at Jonzing World, has been instrumental in shaping Rema’s meteoric rise in the music industry. With a career spanning artiste management, public relations, and music operations, Okeke's ability to blend creative vision with business acumen has positioned him as a leading figure in African music. Under his guidance, Rema has achieved unprecedented success, including the global dominance of the hit single "Calm Down," which charted internationally and earned platinum certifications in multiple countries.

Okeke’s career began in music journalism before transitioning into public relations and eventually artiste management. This diverse background has given him a unique perspective on the industry, allowing him to navigate both the creative and corporate sides effectively. At Jonzing World, Okeke oversees operational strategies while fostering innovative ways to amplify African music globally. His expertise in handling artiste branding, cross-cultural marketing, and international partnerships continues to elevate both Rema and Jonzing World’s presence on the world stage.

14. Teni ‘Teezee’ Zaccheaus JR. & Seni Saraki – Co-Founders of Native Mag and Native Records Teezee, a trailblazer in African music and culture, is the co-founder of Native Mag, Nativeland, and Native Records. As a pivotal figure in shaping the contemporary African music scene, Teezee has created platforms that spotlight emerging African talent while pushing the boundaries of creative storytelling. His vision with Native Records, where he serves as co-president, focuses on developing a new generation of African artistes and fostering authentic cultural representation on a global scale. Teezee not only holds executive roles but is also an executive producer, creative director and an accomplished artiste. He has performed at various festivals and events in cities such as Paris, America, Canada, Rio de Janeiro, London, including his own festival, Nativeland.

Widely regarded as a pioneer of the Alté movement, Teezee has been a driving force behind the success of artistes like ODUMODUBLVCK, Santi, and Odunsi (The Engine). He has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between alternative African sounds and the mainstream. His work with Nativeland, an annual cultural festival, has become a landmark event that celebrates music, art, and youth culture across the continent.

Seni Saraki is a visionary who has successfully bridged the gap between African youth culture and global audiences. As the co-founder of The Native—a multimedia platform dedicated to telling authentic African stories—he has become a pivotal voice shaping how African music and culture are perceived. Saraki’s influence extends beyond journalism; through NATIVE Records, a partnership with Def Jam Recordings, he is redefining what it means to develop and market African artistes on the global stage.

Since launching The Native in 2016, Saraki and his team have provided a platform for emerging artistes, documenting the rise of Afrobeats and its intersection with fashion, art, and politics. With NATIVE Records, he has shifted to the business side, signing acts like ODUMODUBLVCK and positioning them as cultural ambassadors. His ability to curate narratives and foster global partnerships makes him one of the most influential cultural entrepreneurs in contemporary African music.

15. Muyiwa Awoniyi – Manager to Tems, Omah Lay & Lekaa Beats Muyiwa Awoniyi, manager to Tems, Omah Lay, and Lekaa Beats, is a transformative figure in African music management. His work with Tems has propelled her to international stardom, culminating in Grammy nominations and collaborations with global superstars. Awoniyi’s strategic insight and dedication to artiste development extend beyond management—his “Insights Conference” empowers the next generation of African music executives.

Awoniyi's management style emphasizes authenticity and long-term vision. By guiding the careers of Tems and Omah Lay, he has helped redefine the global perception of African artistes. His contributions to the industry continue to shape the future of African music, blending cultural heritage with modern business practices.

16. Alex Okeke – Founder of Red & Axla Logistics, Head Talent & Business Manager, YBNL Alexander Okeke, a dynamic and multi-faceted executive, is the Head Talent & Business Manager at YBNL and the founder of Red & Axla Logistics. With a strong background in talent management, brand strategy, and event coordination, Okeke plays a crucial role in the continued dominance of YBNL on the African music scene. His meticulous approach to business operations and artiste development has contributed to the success of several YBNL artistes, including global superstar Asake and label founder Olamide.

Beyond his work with YBNL, Okeke’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his ventures like Red & Axla Logistics and The Red Room. These companies provide services across logistics and entertainment, further expanding his influence. His keen ability to identify talent and execute innovative marketing strategies has solidified his position as a crucial behind-the-scenes force driving the growth of Afrobeats.

17. Motolani Alake – Label Manager, Virgin Music Nigeria Motolani Alake is a key player in Nigeria’s evolving music industry, bringing a journalist’s analytical mindset to his role as Label Manager at Virgin Music Nigeria. His transition from acclaimed music critic to industry executive has equipped him with a unique perspective on market dynamics and artiste development. Alake’s ability to blend storytelling with strategic execution has contributed to the label’s rapid rise in Nigeria’s competitive music space.

Since joining Virgin Music, Alake has been at the forefront of shaping successful campaigns for artistes like Seyi Vibez. His work is characterized by a keen understanding of both the local and global music markets, ensuring that artistes under his care receive the visibility and support they need to flourish. With a commitment to nurturing talent and pushing creative boundaries, Alake continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of African music distribution.

18. Akorede Asunni – CEO of Azuri Music Akorede Asunni, the CEO of Azuri Music, is a key player in advancing African music distribution and artiste development. With a career rooted in digital marketing and content strategy, Asunni has built Azuri Music into one of the most influential distribution companies on the continent. His journey began with managing social media campaigns for artistes, but his entrepreneurial drive led him to create a platform dedicated to empowering African artistes and ensuring their music reaches global audiences.

Under Asunni's leadership, Azuri Music has been instrumental in breaking emerging talents like Baby Boy AV, Spy Shitta, Wizard Chan, and Spyro. His strategic vision focuses on providing artistes with resources to navigate the evolving digital music ecosystem while fostering long-term growth. Asunni’s hands-on approach and innovative business strategies make him a pivotal figure in the modern African music landscape.

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19. Tosin Sorinola – Senior Director of Marketing and Operations for EMPIRE Africa Tosin Sorinola is the Senior Director of Marketing and Operations at EMPIRE Africa, where she plays a key role in the label’s strategic expansion across the continent. Her leadership has contributed significantly to making EMPIRE the go-to distribution and label services outlet for African artistes. With a deep understanding of the African music landscape, she has been integral in executing marketing campaigns that elevate both emerging and established artistes.

Sorinola’s career reflects a commitment to artiste empowerment and global representation. She has spearheaded successful projects that have amplified the reach of African music across digital platforms and global markets. Her collaborative approach and business savvy continue to strengthen EMPIRE’s position as a leading force driving African music’s global success.

20. Titilope Adesanya – Director of Operations, EMPIRE Africa Titilope Adesanya is a pivotal figure in the operational success of EMPIRE Africa. As Director of Operations, she plays a critical role in managing the label’s expansive roster and ensuring seamless execution of campaigns across the continent. Her journey from radio broadcasting to music operations reflects her adaptability and deep understanding of both the creative and logistical sides of the industry. Adesanya’s leadership is defined by her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to artiste-first approaches.

Her contributions extend to some of EMPIRE’s most successful projects, including the strategic rollout of albums and singles that have dominated charts. Notably, she played an essential role in the success of L.A.X’s ZaZa Vibes and its breakout hit “Sempe,” which gained global traction. Beyond her operational expertise, Adesanya is a champion for women in the music industry, using her platform to advocate for inclusivity and professional development.

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Olamide Abimbola & Olaniyan Abdul-Gafar – co-Founders of CiDAR Africa Olamide Abimbola and Olaniyan Abdul-Gafar are the operational minds behind CiDAR Africa, one of the fastest-rising music distribution companies on the continent. With a background in digital marketing and artiste relations, they have been instrumental in curating and promoting a diverse roster of talent. Their work with artistes like Ayo Maff and Dxtiny showcases their ability to identify and develop emerging voices in the African music scene.

As part of Fido’s marketing team, Abimbola and Abdul-Gafar have delivered successful campaigns such as "Awolowo" and "Joy Is Coming," which have resonated deeply with audiences. Their innovative marketing strategies and understanding of audience engagement have made them pivotal figures in shaping the future of music distribution in Africa.

22. Victor Okpala – Artiste & Label Partnerships Lead for West Africa, Spotify Victor Okpala plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of music streaming in West Africa as the Artiste & Label Partnerships Lead at Spotify. Since joining in 2021, he has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between African artistes and the global music ecosystem. His strategic initiatives have amplified the presence of African music on Spotify, making the platform a crucial driver for breaking new artistes and pushing the Afrobeats genre to an international audience. Victor's work goes beyond managing relationships with artistes; he is also actively involved in partnerships related to playlists and leading artiste campaigns for both export and local discovery. He helps connect playlists to real-life opportunities and events that resonate in our markets. Additionally, he designs programs like Spotify RADAR to highlight emerging talent.

His influence has helped position Spotify as the largest single contributor to the Nigerian music charts. Under his stewardship, West African artistes have achieved unprecedented visibility, and he remains dedicated to using streaming data to inform and empower the region’s creative community.

23. Omowale Ozolua, Manager Content & Operations & Artiste Services, Audiomack Africa Omowale "Wale" Ozolua is a pivotal figure in the African music industry, serving as the Manager of Content Operations and Artiste Services at Audiomack Africa. In this role, he is instrumental in enhancing the platform's presence across the continent, focusing on artiste development and content strategy. His efforts have significantly contributed to Audiomack's success in Nigeria, providing support for artistes through playlisting, listener monetary support channels, and street-level promotions to boost music streaming.

Wale's dedication to artiste empowerment is further exemplified by his active participation in educational initiatives. He has shared invaluable knowledge with artists at various events, such as those organized by Audiomack Africa, aiming to equip them with the tools necessary for success in the evolving music landscape.

24. Olayiwola Olajumoke – Manager to P. Priime, Telz, Semzi & Ileri Olayiwola Olajumoke is a multifaceted legal professional and music executive who is making a significant impact on the Afrobeats scene. With a strong background in intellectual property law, she brings a unique blend of legal expertise and industry knowledge to her work. Her dedication to protecting artistes' rights and fostering creative growth has positioned her as a vital figure in the African music ecosystem. Through her work as an entertainment lawyer and music consultant, Olajumoke ensures that the artistes under her management receive the legal protection and business acumen necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

Beyond her legal prowess, Olajumoke plays an essential role in the careers of some of Afrobeats' most sought-after producers and artistes. Managing talents like P. Priime, Telz, Semzi, and Ileri, she provides strategic guidance that extends beyond legal frameworks, supporting their creative visions and helping to shape the sound of contemporary African music. Her ability to navigate both the creative and business aspects of the music industry has earned her respect and recognition. Olajumoke’s work continues to elevate the profiles of her clients while setting a high standard for legal and managerial excellence within the African entertainment landscape.

25. Ademola Alugo & Akwari Kelechi – Senior Vice Presidents, Dvpper Digital and Dapper Music and Entertainment Demola Alugo and Akwari Kelechi are the powerhouse duo leading Dapper Music & Entertainment’s rise in the African music industry. As Senior Vice Presidents, they combine expertise in digital strategy, talent management, and music distribution to drive the company’s growth. Kelechi, known for his talent-scouting acumen, played a pivotal role in launching Ycee’s career and continues to nurture emerging artistes.

Alugo, on the other hand, specializes in expanding Dapper’s digital reach. His leadership of Dvpper Digital focuses on optimizing music distribution, licensing, and digital marketing. Together, their collaborative approach has positioned Dapper as a vital player in the African music ecosystem, helping artistes achieve mainstream success while staying independent.

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26. Deola A. Jaiyesimi – Head of Label at Young Legend, Manager to Joeboy Deola A. Jaiyesimi, currently the Head of Label at Young Legend and manager to Joeboy, has built a career marked by versatility and industry insight. His journey spans key positions across streaming platforms, artiste relations, and label management. Jaiyesimi previously worked at The Orchard as a Label Manager, where he oversaw releases for major artistes like Patoranking, Ruger, and Lojay, refining his skills in campaign execution and release strategy.

Before joining The Orchard, Jaiyesimi was an Artiste Relations Manager at Boomplay, where he gained firsthand knowledge of the streaming landscape and music consumption trends. His holistic approach to artist management focuses on long-term brand building and career sustainability. At Young Legend, he continues to push boundaries, using his diverse expertise to shape the next phase of African music’s global evolution.

27. Bugwu Aneto-Okeke – CEO of MAD Solutions Bugwu Aneto-Okeke is the innovative CEO of MAD Solutions, a leading music distribution and digital marketing company that has revolutionized how African artistes reach a global audience. With a clear vision for the future of African music, Bugwu has created a platform that provides comprehensive services, including music distribution, licensing, and promotional strategies. His work has propelled the careers of major acts like Mercy Chinwo, Phyno, and Zoro, among others.

Under Bugwu's leadership, MAD Solutions has become a one-stop shop for independent artistes and labels, empowering them to scale their reach without compromising creative control. His commitment to innovation and artiste development ensures that African talent not only thrives locally but also resonates on the global stage. With a track record of breaking records and elevating independent voices, Bugwu’s contributions continue to shape the African music business landscape.

28. Caleb “Dafe” Jemedafe – Founder of KVLT, Show Promoter, A&R Caleb “Dafe” Jemedafe, known as the "Party Boy of Lagos," is redefining African youth culture through his work as a show promoter, A&R specialist, and founder of KVLT. What started as a dorm-room passion project evolved into a creative powerhouse that has accelerated the careers of emerging artistes like Llona and Abstraktt. His keen ear for new sounds and ability to create immersive live experiences have made him a respected tastemaker in Lagos’s bustling entertainment scene.

In addition to his work with KVLT, Dafe’s Even in the Day party series has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting diverse crowds and spotlighting African music talent. His commitment to providing platforms for new artistes to showcase their craft has made him a vital figure in the underground and mainstream music scenes. By blending innovation with cultural authenticity, Dafe continues to shape the future of African entertainment.

29. Esther ‘Isioma’ Nwaruocha – A&R/Artiste Development Manager at Warner Music Africa, Manager to Young Jonn Isioma Nwaruocha is a powerhouse in music promotion and artiste management. As the Head of Promotions at Chocolate City Music, she plays a crucial role in shaping and amplifying the label’s public reach. With over a decade of industry experience, Isioma has been instrumental in the success of major acts such as Ckay, MI Abaga, and Blaqbonez, ensuring their music reaches audiences both locally and internationally.

Beyond her work at Chocolate City, Isioma also manages producer-turned-artiste Young Jonn. Her ability to navigate the complexities of music promotion while nurturing talent reflects her deep understanding of the industry. Isioma’s strategic approach to promotion, combined with her commitment to empowering artistes, makes her one of the most influential figures behind the scenes in Nigeria’s music ecosystem.

30. Ogaga “Ogagus” Sakpaide – Manager to Chike Ogaga Sakpaide, known professionally as Ogagus, is a seasoned artiste manager who has played a critical role in shaping the career of Nigerian singer Chike. With a background in writing and public relations, Ogagus transitioned seamlessly into artiste management, leveraging his storytelling abilities and industry knowledge to elevate Chike’s brand. His work has helped the singer achieve massive commercial success with hit projects like Boo of the Booless and The Brother’s Keeper.

Ogagus’ approach to management is rooted in a keen understanding of audience engagement and a commitment to artiste growth. His hands-on involvement in Chike’s career—from crafting strategic release plans to securing high-profile collaborations—has solidified his reputation as a manager who delivers results. His ability to balance creativity with business acumen makes him a key figure in the contemporary Nigerian music industry.