Universal Music Group has appointed Chinedu Okeke as its managing director in Nigeria.
In his new role, Okeke will lead the development and expansion of UMG’s existing operations within Nigeria, and other English-speaking markets in West Africa.
He will be based in Lagos.
A statement by the music company said, “Okeke joined UMG having established himself over the last decade, as a successful business and live-music entrepreneur. He is the founder of Eclipse Live – a Live entertainment company focused on bringing live affordable entertainment to the youth of Africa and Eclipse Brand Agency, working with major clients, artists, and commercial partners.
“He is also the founder and executive producer of Nigeria’s legendary Gidi Culture Festival, and a founding trustee of Echo Music & Arts Foundation, and previously held positions at The Wicklow Group, Canvest Group & AP Moeller Maersk.”
Meanwhile, Sipho Dlamini has been promoted to chief executive officer, Universal Music South Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa, effective immediately.
Dlamini is a member of UMG’s Task Force for Meaningful Change, which was created last year as a driving force for inclusion and social justice within the global music industry, and serves as chair for the TFMC’s Global Committee.
In 2019, Dlamini was named in Billboard’s International Music Power list, the first Africa-based executive to make the list.
Dlamini said, “There has never been a more exciting time for African music around the world, as it continues to influence and inspire culture and creativity, whilst reaching a wider audience globally each day through streaming.
“I am delighted to welcome both Elouise and Chin to the UMG family, their unique skills and experiences will only help to further establish UMG as a bedrock within the African music community, that will continue to put the interests and opportunities for artists first and help elevate African talent to new levels of success at home and abroad.”
