NCAC Applauds UK Music and BMEx for 'Black Music Means Business' Report
The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) has extended congratulations to UK Music and the Black Music Export Office (BMEx) following the publication of the Black Music Means Business report. This comprehensive document underscores the profound economic impact of Black music on the United Kingdom's creative industry, revealing that it has been a major driver over the past three decades.
Economic Contributions and Global Recognition
The report, unveiled at Speaker's House in the House of Commons, Westminster, details that Black music contributed approximately 80 per cent of the estimated £30 billion generated by the UK music industry, amounting to £24.5 billion. This significant figure highlights the genre's substantial role in shaping the economic landscape. The ceremony was attended by a wide array of industry stakeholders and policymakers, emphasizing the report's importance in global discussions.
Nigerian Delegation and Leadership Role
NCAC Director-General, Obi Asika, led a prominent Nigerian delegation to the event, which included key figures from the music industry and government representatives. This delegation comprised:
- Audu Maikori
- Paul Okeugo, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of Chocolate City
- Adedayo Ayoade, Founder of Gbedu Labs
- Alexander Okeke, Co-Founder of YBNL
- Isioma Idigie, Legal Adviser to RELPI and MPAN
- Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President on Creativity and Entertainment
Their presence underscored Nigeria's growing influence in the global music ecosystem and its commitment to fostering international collaborations.
Cultural and Economic Validation
Speaking at the event, Asika described the report as a validation of the cultural and economic power of Black music. He noted Nigeria's central role in shaping global music trends, particularly through the rise of Afrobeats. "From Afrobeats to the wider creative ecosystem, Nigerian artists, producers, and entrepreneurs are key players in this global movement," Asika stated. He emphasized that this momentum has been strengthened through diaspora collaboration and cultural exchange, especially with the UK.
Asika added that Nigeria's participation at Westminster reflects a deliberate effort to ensure the country's creative output is recognized, valued, and effectively monetized on the global stage. He highlighted ongoing initiatives, such as Basslines to Billions, a project developed in partnership with Regentstone Capital, aimed at strengthening the sector. "This report reinforces the fact that Black music is not just a cultural expression but a serious business opportunity, with Nigeria positioned at the heart of its future," he concluded.
Broader Implications and Stakeholder Perspectives
Baba Agba, in his remarks, described the report as a significant acknowledgement of the economic value of Black music and the ecosystems that sustain it. "Our engagement aligns with a broader national objective of transforming cultural influence into economic strength, and positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global creative economy," he said.
Chief Executive of UK Music, Tom Kiehl, emphasized that the report demonstrates the integral role of Black music in shaping the global music landscape and contributing significantly to economies worldwide. He stressed the need to implement its recommendations to ensure sustainable growth and inclusivity within the industry.
Head of Diversity at UK Music, Eunice Obianagha, highlighted the enduring impact of the African diaspora on the evolution of Black music in the UK. She noted that genres such as reggae, jazz, grime, and Afrobeats have played a major role in shaping the country's cultural identity, with artists of Nigerian descent contributing significantly to this evolution. Obianagha called for continued investment in the communities driving these contributions to sustain their impact.
Paul Okeugo commended the findings of the report, describing them as a powerful reflection of the global influence of Black music. He urged stakeholders to focus not only on the economic value but also on preserving the cultural significance of the genre, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
