Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, founder of the Silverbird Group, has revealed that his media and entertainment empire began in 1980 with a modest N20,000 loan borrowed from his siblings. He shared this story while speaking at the Infrastructure Dialogue 2026 in Abuja, where he encouraged young entrepreneurs to remain resilient and pursue their dreams despite challenges.
Early Inspiration from James Brown Concert
Murray-Bruce explained that his passion for entertainment was ignited at the age of 13 after watching a James Brown concert. He stated: 'James Brown's concert was the first I ever saw in my life. I was 13 years old at that time... Silverbird cost me N20,000, which I borrowed from my siblings to set up in 1980.'
Impact of the 1983 Military Coup
The former senator recalled how the 1983 military coup, which ousted President Shehu Shagari and brought Muhammadu Buhari to power, devastated his thriving concert promotion business. 'Once Shagari was overthrown, all hell broke loose... At that time, Buhari was the Head of State. All my shows were also cancelled. That was how they ruined my concert business,' he said.
According to reports, worsening economic conditions and foreign exchange instability further damaged the industry. In 1980, the exchange rate was $1.97 to one naira, but by 1983 it had risen to N4 to a dollar.
Challenges in Nigeria's Entertainment Industry
Murray-Bruce highlighted the lack of structures for concert promotion in Nigeria at the time. With only the National Theatre in Surulere, Lagos available, entertainers like King Sunny Ade, Fela Kuti and Ebenezer Obey mostly performed in clubs. He noted that concert promotion was extremely difficult due to limited media outlets: one television station (NTA), one radio station (FRCN), and four newspapers. Without social media or mobile phones, promoters relied heavily on editors to publicise shows.
Despite these challenges, Murray-Bruce said he lost money on only one out of the 20 concerts he organised between 1980 and 1983.
Transforming Nigerian Television
Reflecting on his time as Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Murray-Bruce recounted how he introduced 24-hour broadcasting. 'I then said, going forward, we will do 24 hours... And in seven days, that was how television started running a 24-hour broadcast in Nigeria. I didn't take 'No' for an answer,' he said.
Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
Encouraging young entrepreneurs, Murray-Bruce stressed resilience and determination: 'Wherever you find yourself, you must never quit or give up. The key to success is your ability to dream. Never imagine that you can't be successful.' He also advised startups to carefully read contracts and use good lawyers rather than relying on friendships or celebrity status.
Praise from Industry Leaders
Dr Onuoha Nnachi, Managing Partner of Deutsche Partners Holding, praised Murray-Bruce's resilience and described him as a mentor. He recalled how Murray-Bruce swiftly resolved broadcasting frequency issues in Abuja during his time working with the late Minister of Information, Dora Akunyili.
Former Governor of Adamawa State, Boni Haruna, also commended the organisers of the dialogue and urged young entrepreneurs not to abandon their dreams despite Nigeria's tough business climate.
Political Defection
In related news, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce formally announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic and infrastructural reforms. In a statement posted on his verified X.com account, the media entrepreneur said his decision was motivated by a desire for national progress rather than political ambition.
