Ibadan, Nigeria - November 12, 2024
The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), led by National President Pretty Okafor, has taken significant strides to strengthen unity within the Association.
During a landmark visit to Ibadan, Mr. Okafor met with the Western Zone’s leadership, which comprised Zonal leaders, State Chapter Governors, and some State Chapter Secretaries, to address member concerns, discuss challenges, and chart a course for future collaboration.
The Western Zone Chapter Governors extended this invitation to honor Mr. Okafor’s achievements, particularly praising the ongoing PMAN Abuja project, the recent acquisition of the Nigerian Music House, and other infrastructure projects in progress. They also pledged their support for PMAN under his leadership, recognizing the positive impact of his accomplishments as President.
The meeting was attended by the following PMAN Western Zone leaders and key figures:
• 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 PMAN; Comrade Kareem Azeez Osoba, Immediate Past Chapter Governor Lagos State; Alhaji Tijani Adesina Fatai, Immediate Past Deputy Chapter Governor Lagos State; Adekunbi Alamu Bamigbaye (“Alhaji Fancy”); Mr. Azubuike Enebeli; and Mr. Henrie Eduozor, Esq.
The meeting began with a warm welcome from Western Zone Chairman Dr. Ola Jombo and Secretary Evangelist Remi Aderoju. Expressing his gratitude for the reception, 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 the open forum, State Chapter Governors praised the President for his passionate and result yielding leadership style. They also shared their perspectives on the National Association’s current impact, governance, and recent challenges. Several Chapter Governors voiced a desire for enhanced collaboration, greater financial transparency, and improved support from the National body. Key issues included:
1. Strengthening Chapter Autonomy and Accountability: Several Chapter Governors, including Prince Abiodun Adegoroye (Ogun) and Comrade Jide Abiade Murphy (Ondo), stressed the importance of more inclusive decision-making processes and called for greater financial and operational support from the National body.
2. Reconciliation and Inclusivity: Members expressed support for a reconciliatory approach, urging PMAN to mend rifts and foster inclusivity at all levels of leadership.
3. Operational Improvements: Leaders proposed initiatives for state representation, local registration processes, and closer collaboration with National offices. Calls were also made for establishing liaison offices in Abuja and implementing online registration.
4. Commitment to Peace and Unity: Several Chapter Governors, including Alhaji Adisa Owala (Kwara) and Chief Olalere Adankara (Ekiti), encouraged PMAN’s National leadership to focus on lasting peace and to avoid divisive actions that could disrupt the Association’s mission.
At the meeting’s conclusion, Mr. Okafor reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these 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 closed the session by pledging their support for Mr. Okafor and his vision for PMAN, promising collaboration and alignment with the Association’s core values.
PMAN remains dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of musicians across Nigeria. This meeting marks a crucial step toward strengthening PMAN’s support structure and operational efficacy for all State Chapters.
Elizabeth Khara Gabriel, Esq.
Acting General Secretary, PMAN
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