PMAN FCT unveils music training for 3000 youths, seeks Wike’s support

The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has unveiled plans to train thousands of young people in music-related skills while urging the FCT administration to support the creation of a permanent secretariat for the association.

Leaders of the union said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the creative industry in Abuja and provide structured opportunities for young talents.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, the Acting Governor of PMAN FCT, Michael Oyibo, explained that the association intends to equip about 3,000 youths with practical knowledge in instrumental performance, live-band coordination, music production and the commercial aspects of the entertainment industry.

He said the programme was designed to address critical skill shortages currently affecting the local music sector.

“Many young people aspire to become singers, but the industry also requires skilled instrumentalists and technical professionals,” Oyibo said.

“Our goal is to train a new generation of musicians who can perform professionally and sustain live music culture in Abuja.”

According to him, a recent audition organised by the association highlighted the imbalance within the sector, as nearly all participants focused on vocal performance while very few demonstrated expertise in instruments.

Oyibo noted that the planned training would be implemented through partnerships with music academies and investors willing to support creative development.

Furthermore, the PMAN leader called on the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to assist the association in establishing a permanent office that would serve as its operational headquarters.

He explained that the absence of a central administrative facility has limited the union’s ability to coordinate activities and deliver consistent support to members.

“A dedicated secretariat will give us the structure we need to manage programmes, organise training sessions and provide welfare services to musicians across the territory,” he said.

In addition to skills development, PMAN expressed concern over the working conditions faced by many entertainers in Abuja.

Oyibo lamented that some musicians are frequently underpaid or treated unfairly during events and performances.

“To protect our members, we will begin discussions with hotels, event organisers and entertainment venues to create standard performance fees,” he said. “Musicians deserve fair compensation for the value they bring to events.”

He added that the association plans to introduce monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with agreed professional standards within the industry.

Meanwhile, the union is also working on modernising its internal operations through digital reforms.

Oyibo disclosed that the chapter is introducing an electronic membership registration system and identification database aimed at improving documentation and giving Abuja-based musicians greater visibility in the global music market.

He urged members of the association to remain committed to the organisation’s objectives and support efforts aimed at repositioning the music industry in the capital city.

The PMAN FCT leadership also announced that its planned congress had been postponed temporarily to allow for more extensive consultations and improved preparations.