In a groundbreaking effort to reposition Plateau State as a leading hub for entertainment in Nigeria, the Plateau State Chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) hosted an unprecedented gathering of creative industry stakeholders under the theme “Unity Drive for Entertainment Revival.”
The historic convergence brought together leaders from across the entertainment spectrum, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), DJs, MCs, dancers, comedians, bloggers, poets, and the Fellowship of Gospel Music Ministers of Nigeria (FOGMMON), among others.
Ambassador Humphrey Iroegbu, also known as Color and the Governor of PMAN Plateau Chapter, emphasized the essence of the gathering as a unity initiative aimed at restoring the entertainment sector in the state. “This is the first time all heads of creative associations on the Plateau are meeting like this,” he said. “We have everything—talent, resources, creativity. What we need is unity, and that is what this meeting represents.”
He expressed optimism that the collaboration would yield tangible progress. “After this meeting, we believe there will be a positive change. We are laying the foundation for Plateau’s entertainment sector to thrive again.”
Matthew Tegha, Chairman of the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA), described the meeting as timely and strategic. “This platform allows us to harness our collective energies, share ideas, and create synergy across various sectors,” he said. Tegha emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that disunity has long hindered growth in the entertainment sector. “We are here to synergize, to learn from one another, and to put Plateau back on the map.”
Peace Ahaechi Gabriel, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter, echoed similar sentiments, declaring the meeting “the best of its kind.” He lamented the exploitation of local talents by external producers who pay Lagos-based actors well but underpay those in Plateau. “With this united front, we now have the power to set standards. We will no longer allow Plateau talents to be taken for granted,” he affirmed.
Patience Agada, also known as Word’s Diva from the Poets & Writers Community, noted the passionate, results-driven nature of the gathering. “This isn’t just another talk shop. Everyone here is laying out practical steps and bringing real strategies to the table. We’re all in with our ideas, energy, and integrity,” she said.
A critical session was held during the meeting where stakeholders discussed the challenges affecting the entertainment industry and proposed actionable solutions. Issues such as lack of standardization, disunity among associations, and external exploitation were tabled, with participants agreeing on the need for structural reforms and a shared sense of ownership.
The meeting closed with a strong call to action for all creatives to identify and align with relevant professional associations. Ambassador Iroegbu stressed, “You cannot be a creative without belonging to a union. Associations help protect, guide, and promote talent. That’s the path to growth.”
This landmark unity gathering marks a turning point for Plateau State’s entertainment industry, signaling a new era of collaboration, empowerment, and cultural renaissance. The creative leaders have not only shared a vision but committed themselves to rebuilding the Plateau entertainment ecosystem with passion, strategy, and unity.
