The All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, has underscored the critical significance of establishing regulations and formal structures within the music and entertainment sector.

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This message comes as AFRIMA stands in solidarity with millions of African youths and music enthusiasts in expressing profound sadness over the unexpected passing of Nigeria's pop sensation, Mohbad, whose tragic death occurred under mysterious circumstances on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. At present, law enforcement authorities are actively engaged in an investigation to determine the precise cause of his untimely demise.

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Mohbad, a 27-year-old emerging music talent renowned by the alias "Imole" (which means "Light"), was celebrated for his youthful exuberance, boundless creativity, and extraordinary lyrical prowess, which had captivated the hearts of countless fans worldwide.

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The President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mike Dada, conveyed deep sorrow at the loss of this promising talent within Africa's burgeoning music industry, characterized by its recent growth and vibrancy.

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In light of this tragic event, he highlighted the urgent need for the music and entertainment sector to undergo institutionalization, emphasizing that this remains a top priority in addressing the longstanding issue of unprofessional practices that have persisted within the industry across the African continent.

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He writes:  “On behalf of the International Committee of AFRIMA, we condole with Nigeria’s music industry, parents and fans of Mohbad, over his painful demise. “The death of Mohbad is a tragic event that has left us all deeply saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.

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“With his demise, Africa has lost a promising talent in our growing music and entertainment industry. We pray God to grant him eternal rest, and grant his parents, family, and teeming fans the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss.” “AFRIMA is spearheading efforts to mobilise stakeholders in the creative industry in Africa, with a focus on Nigeria, to establish institutionalized operations and regulate the music entertainment industry.

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According to Dada, this includes the enactment of legislation that sets industry standards, regulations and compliance for music record labels, performing artistes, music publishing companies, entertainment lawyers and other professionals.

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“It is necessary to have a law that regulates the music industry to prevent it from becoming an unregulated free-for-all, as currently, the entry requirements are low such that anyone can just wake up and establish a music record label. “To address this issue, African countries must establish a Music Institute to certify practitioners regularly.

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AFRIMA is leveraging its platform to organize a stakeholder summit aimed at engaging the legislative arm of governments across Africa through the African Union.

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 “AFRIMA urges stakeholders, including relevant government officials and agencies, artistes, record labels, A&R, producers, promoters, artiste’s managers, brands, songwriters, DJs & video vixens, video directors, equipment production and rental companies, publishing companies, streaming service companies, entertainment lawyers, royalty companies among others, to participate in this crucial process.

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We urge stakeholders to submit their proposed legislation for review and consideration,” the AFRIMA President stated.

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