The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has announced new enforcement measures requiring hotel owners, event planners, and other stakeholders in Abuja’s entertainment sector to obtain official clearance before engaging live music bands.
The directive was disclosed on Friday in Abuja by the association’s acting governor, Michael Oyibo Kaycee, during a press briefing aimed at addressing growing concerns within the industry.
Kaycee emphasized that the association would no longer tolerate practices such as exploitation, underpayment, and disregard for professional standards affecting musicians in the nation’s capital. He stressed that all operators within the entertainment value chain must comply with established industry regulations, including the engagement of certified performers.
According to him, a newly activated task force has commenced operations to monitor compliance and enforce the directive. He warned that event organisers and show promoters who fail to obtain proper authorization from PMAN risk facing sanctions.
“The system has been taken for granted for too long. It is time for stakeholders to understand the role of PMAN in the FCT. Event planners and show organisers must seek approval from the association before engaging live bands,” he stated.
Beyond regulatory concerns, Kaycee also highlighted shifting trends in media consumption, noting a significant decline in traditional television viewership. He described the trend as a reflection of the growing dominance of digital platforms in content distribution.
“In today’s digital age, virtually everyone carries a screen in their hands. Even individuals in remote areas now have the opportunity to gain global recognition through digital platforms. This underscores a major shift in how content is consumed and distributed,” he said.
He further called on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to intervene in addressing challenges facing the association and its members, particularly in ensuring fair treatment and enforcement of industry standards.