By Eunice Orike
The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria PMAN, Federal Capital Territory FCT, Chapter, has unveiled plans to train and empower 3,000 youths in Abuja in instrumental performance, live band professionalism, and music business and production.
Acting Governor of PMAN FCT, Micheal Oyibo Kaycee, disclosed this during a press conference in Abuja, outlining a broader strategy to reposition the capital city as Nigeria’s leading hub for live music excellence.
Kaycee said the initiative would be executed in partnership with music academies, private investors, and international cultural organisations.
He described the programme as part of a wider reform agenda aimed at strengthening the association and enhancing opportunities for its members.
The PMAN FCT leadership also raised concerns over declining television viewership, attributing the trend to the growing dominance of digital platforms.
Kaycee noted that smartphones and online platforms have transformed content consumption, making digital visibility essential for musicians.
“Today, virtually everyone carries a television in their hands. A young boy in a remote area can gain global recognition simply through digital influence,” he said.
He added that the association is pivoting fully to digital strategies, including upgrading its website to enable comprehensive digital registration of members in the FCT.
According to him, the move will improve data management, enhance visibility, and create better local and international opportunities for members.
PMAN stressed that embracing digital innovation is no longer optional, noting that the future of music promotion and audience engagement lies in technology-driven platforms.
Kaycee reaffirmed the union’s commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of musicians, employers, hotel owners, record labels, and event promoters within the entertainment ecosystem.
However, he acknowledged that the association has struggled in recent years due to internal disagreements, inconsistent leadership, and declining member engagement.
Describing his emergence as a turning point, Kaycee said it marks “a shift from stagnation to structure, from division to unity, and from potential to performance.”
He outlined plans to introduce minimum performance standards and fair pay benchmarks, while also establishing a welfare support system to protect members from exploitation.
He added that PMAN would engage hotels, lounges, and event organisers to enforce compliance with industry standards.
As part of efforts to strengthen governance, Kaycee announced plans to establish a functional PMAN FCT Secretariat to serve as an administrative headquarters, training hub, and welfare centre.
He called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to support the initiative, citing the association’s role in youth development and economic growth.
The PMAN FCT boss also revealed plans to launch a digital platform to streamline operations, including event registration, certification, and a database of verified musicians.
Addressing internal divisions, Kaycee pledged to promote unity through inclusive engagement, an open-door policy, and a structured conflict resolution framework.
He urged members to actively participate in union activities, pay dues, and contribute to governance processes.
“This administration is not about one individual, it is about shared responsibility and visible impact. It is a collective movement, not a spectator union,” he said.
Kaycee also warned that all live music events in the FCT must be duly recognised by PMAN, adding that a task force has been established to ensure compliance.
He cautioned that failure to adhere to industry standards would attract appropriate sanctions.
The association further announced plans to convene a PMAN FCT Congress, which he described as a key platform for policy discussions and strategic decision-making.
