The Artiste Managers Association of Nigeria, AMAN, marked its 30th anniversary with a glittering award ceremony at Eko Hotels & Suites.
The event honoured managers who have shaped Nigeria’s entertainment industry over three decades.
Hosted by comedy legend Ali Baba, the star-studded night saw Nollywood icons, Afrobeats giants, and industry pioneers gather in celebration. Ali Baba declared, “Managers are the backbone supporting the artistes. To see their efforts over 30 years recognised tonight is a great thing. I believe they will do even more now.”
Collins Enebeli Ajereh reflected on the association’s early years as a non-profit with a clear vision to professionalise artiste management. He thanked everyone present for their support throughout the long journey. “We are happy to see where we are today,” he said. “AMAN has created new award categories to give flowers to the icons who built this industry while they are still here to receive them.”
The ceremony featured over 30 awards and special recognitions across music, film, media, and creative enterprise.
Among the major highlights:
* Artiste Manager of the Year: Asa Asika
* Artiste of the Year (Male): Davido
* Artiste of the Year (Female): Tems
Other honours included the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Bright Chimezie, Alex O, Dr Dayo Olomu, Pedro Okolie, and Prof. Rotimi Jaiyesimi; the AMAN @30 Golden Artiste Special Recognition to rising star Bayanni (Oldodokun Abimbola Elijah); and the induction of Don Jazzy, Festus Keyamo (SAN), Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, and others into the AMAN Hall of Fame.
The night pulsed with electrifying performances. The AMAN Five, Ashams, Azeena, Mkudi, Naffy, and Tifeniel, delivered a high-energy showcase.
In red carpet interviews with HipTV, Collins Enebeli Ajereh shared his excitement: “To witness AMAN mark 30 years is heartwarming and worth celebrating. We are building a solid foundation so the next generation can do even better than we have done.”
Award recipient and HipTV CEO Ayo Animashaun, honoured as a Creative Industry Icon, stressed the importance of legacy. “Doing this work for 30 years is not a joke. We must document the stories of our legends so their legacies live on. I thank AMAN for this recognition,” he said
Actress Stella Damasus described the event as “a huge success” while praising the president’s leadership in coordinating the association’s 30th anniversary celebration.
The electrifying night proved that Nigeria’s thriving creative industry owes its global rise to the vision and sacrifice of its pioneering managers.
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