The Plateau State chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has sought strategic partnership with veteran music artist and entertainment executive, Dorcas Bentu, as part of renewed efforts to revive and reposition the state’s creative industry.
During a courtesy visit to her in Jos, the PMAN delegation, led by the State Governor of the association, Comrade Ambassador Humphrey Ireogu (popularly known as Color), officially decorated Bentu as a patron and reaffirmed her role as a founding member and key stakeholder in the Plateau chapter.
Speaking during the visit, Comrade Ireogu praised Bentu’s long-standing contributions to the music and entertainment industry, both within and outside the state. He described the visit as a “homecoming and reunion” with one of PMAN’s pioneers, noting that her re-endorsement was crucial to building a stronger, more unified creative front.
“We are excited to officially welcome you back to PMAN Plateau as a patron and stakeholder. You have always been a pillar in the industry, and your experience and leadership are needed now more than ever,” he said. He also emphasized the association’s renewed commitment to working with key figures like Bentu to strengthen the creative sector and improve its visibility.
In her response, Dorcas Bentu, who is also the Managing Director and CEO of Tapshak Entertainment, expressed appreciation for the recognition and reminisced about PMAN’s foundational years, which she helped establish alongside other veterans.
She lamented the challenges that have hindered the association’s growth in Plateau over the years, attributing the stagnation to personal interests that often overshadowed collective goals. “Plateau is blessed with immense creative talent across music, film, and stage. But we need strategic coordination, a unified vision, and a strong voice to engage the government and reposition the industry effectively,” she said.
Bentu emphasized the need for visionary leadership and institutional continuity within PMAN, urging the current leadership to build structures that outlive individuals. “Leadership should be about legacy, not longevity. We must present a credible, visionary roadmap that the government can align with and support,” she added.
She revealed that in past conversations with Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, he had expressed a willingness to support well-articulated creative initiatives. “The governor has made it clear that any idea capable of transforming the creative industry will receive backing. But we must speak with one voice,” Bentu said.
She also criticized the misuse of government funds by individuals who marginalize genuine creatives, stressing the importance of official recognition of PMAN as the legitimate voice of the music and creative sector. She called on the association to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality to create a more coordinated impact.
Highlighting her company’s consistent role in organizing the annual Christmas Village event, Bentu encouraged PMAN to ensure greater representation of musicians and creatives in state-led projects.
In her closing remarks, she pledged her support to the association and proposed the convening of a stakeholders’ forum to develop a shared and inclusive vision for the industry. She urged members to embrace transparency, innovation, and unity to elevate Plateau State’s entertainment industry to both national and global prominence.
