The Nigerian Entertainment Conference Mini Series in honour of Benson Idonije‘s 80th birthday is currently underway at the Freedom Park, Lagos.
Benson Idonije is a revered music critic, veteran journalist and a former recipient of the Life Time Award for Journalism Excellence from the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism who was the first manager of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Kindly refresh this page for updates from the venue:
7:46 Vote of thanks by Jahman Anikulapo.
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7:45 A photo session holds with Benson Idonije flanked by the panelists.
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7:41 Benson Idonije thanks the committee immensely for the outpouring love and affection. He also says he is impressed with the quality of discussion at the NECLIVE Mini Series put together in his honour.
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7:35 Adekunle Ayeni says there is no business model for music releases in Nigeria and there is a need for that.
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7:27 After a healthy round of discussion, the panel rounded up the session with parting key notes.
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7:25 Osagie Alonge reiterates that critics are vital to the development of the industry as there is little media houses can do about what music is played, because of the availability of the internet.
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7:18 Bisi Olatilo congratulates Benson Idonije on his milestone.
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7:07 Sonny Irabor implores all to make the business of music a reality as he applauds the tenacity of today’s musicians.
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7:00 Chief Tony Okoroji gave explanations to the reasons Nigerian entertainment industry as a whole is suffering lapses.
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6:55 After much insightful deliberations by the panelists on the models to embrace in moving the industry forward and even on par with what is obtainable in other parts of the world, the audience was called upon to further share ideas on the topic of discussion.
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6:00 A panel consisting of music producer, Mr Laolu Akintobi, Ayeni Adekunle, journalist Omolara Wood, Mr Femi Akintunde Johnson and Osagie Alonge gather to discuss the way forward for the Nigerian music industry. The discussion is being moderated by Chris Ihidero.
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5:40 A pre-recorded interview of Benson Idonije on the need for music to evolve with times in the industry. He talks about the need for this generation of artistes to learn from past generations and the importance of good musical content.
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5:15 BHM CEO, Adekunle Ayeni takes the podium to address the need for a proper reconstruction of the entertainment industry. The models to embrace and the importance of proper documentation via data procurement.
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4:56 Laolu Akintobi gives speech on Deconstructing and Reconstructing.
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4:41 Chairman CORA, Jahman Anikulapo, gives speech on the reasons for celebrating Benson Idonije.
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4:30 Introduction of notable guests by Henry. Benson Idonije was first to be introduced to a standing ovation.
Other notable guests in attendance are CEO BHM Group, Adekunle Ayeni.