Ikenna Nwagboso, Nigerian-born co-founder and global head of label services and partnerships at emPawa Africa, will resign in January 2025.
emPawa Africa said on Monday (November 11) that Nwagboso was instrumental in working with founder and CEO Oluwatosin Ajibade (aka). Mr. Eds.
During his tenure, Nwagboso oversaw the signing and development of artists such as GuiltyBeatz, Joeboy, Fave, King Promise, Minz, Xenia Manasseh, Nandy and Tekno.
He has also forged partnerships with the likes of Vydia, YouTube Music, Kobalt Music and Beyoncé’s Parkwood Entertainment, while leading emPawa Africa’s flagship programs: the emPawa 100 and emPawa 30 campaigns – billed as the “first of its kind” artist development program IT Launching the careers of 130 emerging artists from the African continent.
Toronto-based Nwagboso will focus on developing artists through the newly formed Image Ent after leaving emPawa in January. / Exodus Music Group.
Canadian artist Chrissy Spratt and British songwriter Geo have signed with the company, which is also consulting on Rwandan artist Bruce Melodie’s upcoming debut album for S-Curve Records.
Afro-pop star Joeboy was discovered by Eazi and Nwagboso as part of the emPawa 100 programme, becoming the first artist to sign a publishing and distribution deal with the company.
“I have worked with Ikenna from the beginning of my career and he is one of the most reliable when it comes to ensuring the best opportunities for his artists,” said Joboy.
“He is definitely one of the major game changers and role players in the African entertainment industry and the world. He is also an integral part of the foundation of my musical progress and growth.
“Ikenna has been dedicated to emPawa for the past eight years, developing some of the biggest new superstars in the industry.”
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Mr. Eazi, founder and CEO of emPawa Africa, said: “Over the past eight years, Ikenna has dedicated his service to emPawa and developed some of the biggest new superstars in the industry.
“We look forward to building on the strong foundation he has established.”
“I am honored to be able to work with the artists and teams that I have the privilege of working with and leading. It’s all been a gift.
Ikenna Nwagboso
Speaking about his departure, Nwagboso added: “I will continue to provide advice to Eazi and emPawa’s executive management team, but it is time to chart a new path.
“I’m honored to work with the artists and teams I’ve had the privilege to work with and lead. It’s all been a gift.global music business
