ArtistDirect News
PMAN Ajegunle Chapter Celebrates World Music Day with Awards and Performances in Lagos
On June 21, 2026, the Performing Musicians’ Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) Ajegunle Chapter illuminated Lagos’s Rockbell Lounge and Club in Olodi Apapa for a spirited World Music Day celebration. The event drew musicians, industry stakeholders and music lovers to a venue that sits near the city’s bustling port and carries a legacy tied to the vibrant Ajegunle community.
The choice of Rockbell Lounge and Club was intentional. Its proximity to the port and its historical links to Ajegunle’s thriving music scene made it a fitting backdrop for a day that honors the cultural roots of Nigerian music.
Chairman Bright John Odede—known in the industry as Sir Boj—described the 2026 edition as “special.” He cited two factors: the inaugural participation of the Lagos State chapter and the introduction of awards honoring individuals who have significantly contributed to Nigerian music. Odede emphasized that the chapter has consistently marked World Music Day, but this year’s event stood out for formally recognizing “notable musicians and contributors” who have helped grow the industry.
During the ceremony, PMAN Lagos State Governor Fatai Tijani highlighted the association’s role as the recognized body for regulating and coordinating music‑related activities in the state. He explained that Ajegunle was selected as the venue because it has long been a breeding ground for talent that has shaped Nigeria’s music scene. Tijani noted that award recipients were chosen for their “contributions to music and their support for emerging artistes,” and that honoring them was a way to “appreciate their impact and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.”
The night’s performances featured local acts that kept the energy high. The duo Sidney Guy—also known as Queen of Love—and Spyro Guy, who performs under the name 360, shared the stage and described World Music Day as a celebration of music’s influence on society. Their set, marked by fast‑paced tracks, had the audience dancing throughout the evening.
Another duo, Damian Ekachukwu John and Desmond Orunchukwu John, addressed the crowd about the day’s significance. They underscored that June 21 is a global date dedicated to celebrating music and musicians, and highlighted their commitment to producing Afro‑beat, hip‑hop and other contemporary genres.
Throughout the event, Odede urged musicians who were not yet members of PMAN to join the association, stressing that unity among artists would strengthen the industry and create more opportunities for practitioners. He also mentioned that members of the Ajegunle chapter have maintained peace and harmony, adding that cooperation remains key to the association’s growth.
Tijani’s remarks reinforced the Lagos State chapter’s support for local talent. He said that the state’s involvement was a nod to Ajegunle’s “immense talents” and that the celebration showcased the community’s musical heritage.
The awards ceremony closed with a call for continued unity among musicians, greater participation in PMAN activities, and sustained support for talent development across Lagos and beyond. Reporters noted that the event attracted a diverse crowd of music professionals, fans and community members.
The 2026 World Music Day celebration in Lagos demonstrates PMAN’s ongoing commitment to fostering a collaborative music environment and recognizing the individuals who drive Nigeria’s vibrant music culture.
The choice of Rockbell Lounge and Club was intentional. Its proximity to the port and its historical links to Ajegunle’s thriving music scene made it a fitting backdrop for a day that honors the cultural roots of Nigerian music.
Chairman Bright John Odede—known in the industry as Sir Boj—described the 2026 edition as “special.” He cited two factors: the inaugural participation of the Lagos State chapter and the introduction of awards honoring individuals who have significantly contributed to Nigerian music. Odede emphasized that the chapter has consistently marked World Music Day, but this year’s event stood out for formally recognizing “notable musicians and contributors” who have helped grow the industry.
During the ceremony, PMAN Lagos State Governor Fatai Tijani highlighted the association’s role as the recognized body for regulating and coordinating music‑related activities in the state. He explained that Ajegunle was selected as the venue because it has long been a breeding ground for talent that has shaped Nigeria’s music scene. Tijani noted that award recipients were chosen for their “contributions to music and their support for emerging artistes,” and that honoring them was a way to “appreciate their impact and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.”
The night’s performances featured local acts that kept the energy high. The duo Sidney Guy—also known as Queen of Love—and Spyro Guy, who performs under the name 360, shared the stage and described World Music Day as a celebration of music’s influence on society. Their set, marked by fast‑paced tracks, had the audience dancing throughout the evening.
Another duo, Damian Ekachukwu John and Desmond Orunchukwu John, addressed the crowd about the day’s significance. They underscored that June 21 is a global date dedicated to celebrating music and musicians, and highlighted their commitment to producing Afro‑beat, hip‑hop and other contemporary genres.
Throughout the event, Odede urged musicians who were not yet members of PMAN to join the association, stressing that unity among artists would strengthen the industry and create more opportunities for practitioners. He also mentioned that members of the Ajegunle chapter have maintained peace and harmony, adding that cooperation remains key to the association’s growth.
Tijani’s remarks reinforced the Lagos State chapter’s support for local talent. He said that the state’s involvement was a nod to Ajegunle’s “immense talents” and that the celebration showcased the community’s musical heritage.
The awards ceremony closed with a call for continued unity among musicians, greater participation in PMAN activities, and sustained support for talent development across Lagos and beyond. Reporters noted that the event attracted a diverse crowd of music professionals, fans and community members.
The 2026 World Music Day celebration in Lagos demonstrates PMAN’s ongoing commitment to fostering a collaborative music environment and recognizing the individuals who drive Nigeria’s vibrant music culture.