‘MMT- Music 4 Social Change’ Advocate Expresses Commitment to Nation-Building

Published

2 years ago

July 7, 2024

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‘MMT- Music 4 Social Change’ Advocate Expresses Commitment to Nation-Building—-The Radisson Blu Ikeja in Lagos played host to a momentous event on Thursday, July 4, 2024, as MMT for Social Change held its inaugural “Music for Social Change” gathering.

The initiative, driven by the influential Nigerian musician Masked Mykatee (MMT), seeks to harness the power of music to promote unity, social development, and the empowerment of Nigerian citizens.

The event was marked by an array of inspiring speeches, dynamic panel discussions, and interactive sessions, all centred on the theme of using music as a tool for social change and nation-building.

The convener of the gathering and the proponent of ‘Music for Social Change’ MMT, expressed his commitment and passion for the social transformation and development of Nigeria anchored on the fulcrum of peace, unity and purpose. He emphasised the need for Nigerians to deviate from upholding our fault-lines of ethnicity and religion and all that divides the country and puts it in the harm way of retrogression and underdevelopment. “The mask I wear represents neutrality and an unbiased commitment to unity and collective progress in Nigeria,” he explained. He shared his experiences and the challenges he has faced in his journey, as well as his vision for a culturally neutral Nigerian identity.

The highlight of the day was the unveiling of the Artist MMT, and the keynote address delivered by the esteemed Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), who commended the event’s organizer, the budding but influential musician Masked Mykatee (MMT), for his unwavering dedication to using music as a tool for social transformation.

Mr. Falana’s keynote address was a powerful and inspiring call to action. He began by praising Masked Mykatee for his innovative approach to addressing Nigeria’s social challenges through music. “MMT has shown us that music is not just an art form but a powerful medium that can inspire, unite, and mobilize people towards positive change,” Falana stated.

Falana delved into the historical and contemporary significance of music as a catalyst for social reform, resistance to authoritarian governments, injustice, and transformation for national building and economic development. He highlighted the role of music in various global movements, emphasizing its ability to transcend barriers and foster a sense of shared identity and purpose. “In Nigeria, where tribalism and ethnic divisions have often hindered our progress, music offers a unique opportunity to promote unity and collective action.”

He reflected on his experiences as lawyer to the legendary Afrobeat King Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and the struggle for social change and transformation of the Nigerian society in particular, Africa, and the world in general. He spoke about the significance of the music for transformation by legends such as Bob Marley, Sonny Okosun, Peter Tosh and many others.

Falana’s speech underscored the importance of unity for national development. He addressed the challenges posed by tribalism and ethnic divisions, proposing music as a unifying force that can bridge these gaps. “Through music, we can create a narrative that celebrates our diversity while promoting a sense of common identity and purpose,” he said.

He also touched on the transformative power of music in engaging and empowering the youth. “Our young people are the future of Nigeria. By using music to inspire and mobilize them, we can foster a new generation of leaders committed to social change and national development,” Falana asserted.

Following the keynote address, the event featured a panel session moderated by Prof. Silk Ugwu Ogbu of the Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos. The panel included distinguished speakers such as Zakka Bala, Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Dr. Desmond Ekeh, and Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye, who each brought unique perspectives on leveraging music for social change.

Zakka Bala discussed the cultural and governance dimensions of music and its role in bridging gaps between the government and the people especially on issues of governance and accountability and the curbing of government malfeasance and corruption of the different spheres of the society. Nkechi Ali-Balogun emphasized the importance of effective communication strategies in amplifying messages of social change through music. She gave a specific example of the significance of the music of such Nigerian artist as Onyeka Onwuenu of the ‘One Love’ fame, and Mike Okri, the ‘Time na Money’ exponent. Dr. Desmond Ekeh explored the socio-political climate in Nigeria and the potential of music to empower the youth towards cultivating dignifying social values that can promote the growth and development of the country. He emphasised that the choices made by the youth are motivated by their values. He encouraged music artists to focus on music that encourages the youths to embrace noble values to promote the upliftment of the society. Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye advocated for integrating music education into the curriculum to nurture socially conscious and culturally neutral Nigerians. She recollected how storytelling and music were used to pass knowledge and information in her formative years as a child. She emphasised the need to develop school curriculars that use music for education and social enlightenment.

Fielding questions from a battery of press reporters comprised of newspapers, radio, television and digital media, Masked Mykatee, the inspiration behind MMT for Social Change spoke passionately about his mission to use music as a tool for social change. “The mask I wear represents neutrality and an unbiased commitment to unity and collective progress in Nigeria,” he explained. He shared his experiences and the challenges he has faced in his journey, as well as his vision for a culturally neutral Nigerian identity.

He also discussed upcoming projects aimed at furthering the cause of social change through music and emphasized the importance of engaging and empowering young Nigerians. “Our youth are the key to a brighter future for Nigeria. Through music, we can inspire them to take active roles in driving social change,” Masked Mykatee stated.

The “Music for Social Change” event successfully highlighted the transformative power of music in fostering unity, social development, and youth empowerment in Nigeria. The insightful speeches and discussions provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in using music as a medium for social change.

The event also served as a platform for networking and collaboration among individuals and organizations committed to promoting social change through music. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective commitment to supporting initiatives that leverage music for social transformation.

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APFSPN Set To Host Inaugural Town Hall Meeting And Induct New Members

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2 days ago

June 15, 2026

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APFSPN Set To Host Inaugural Town Hall Meeting And Induct New Members

……APFSPN Town Hall Meeting and Induction of New Members Set for June 17

The Association of Professional Food Service Providers of Nigeria (APFSPN) has announced plans to host its Inaugural Town Hall Meeting and New Members Induction Ceremony on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Professor Wole Soyinka Centre for Arts and Culture, Iganmu, Lagos.

The landmark event, themed “The Business Behind the Plate,” is expected to bring together stakeholders across Nigeria’s food service ecosystem, including caterers, restaurant owners, event food service providers, culinary professionals, food entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development partners to discuss the future of the industry and strengthen professional collaboration.

Speaking at a media briefing ahead of the event, the newly elected President of APFSPN, Mr. Tobi Fletcher, said the Association was established to address the longstanding absence of structure, institutional support, and unified representation within Nigeria’s rapidly growing food service industry.

According to him, despite being one of the most vibrant sectors of the economy, the food service industry has operated for too long without a coordinated voice capable of driving standards, recognition, and sustainable growth.

“APFSPN exists to professionalise the food service industry. We exist to give caterers, food vendors, restaurant owners, event food service providers, and every professional who works behind the plate a platform for growth, recognition, and collective strength.” — Tobi Fletcher, President, APFSPN

He explained that the theme of the event, “The Business Behind the Plate,” reflects the economic realities and entrepreneurial ecosystem surrounding food service delivery in Nigeria.

“Behind every plate of food served at an event, in a restaurant, or at a corporate function, there is a business, a dream, and a livelihood. More importantly, over 90 percent of our members are women who wake up every day to build sustainable businesses and contribute meaningfully to the economy. APFSPN is here to ensure that these businesses are supported, protected, and celebrated.” — Tobi Fletcher, President, APFSPN

Also speaking at the press briefing, the Vice President of APFSPN, Mrs. Ibidunni Layade, emphasised the Association’s commitment to capacity building and the welfare of its members. She noted that APFSPN is not merely a professional body but a support system designed to elevate the standards of food service delivery across Nigeria.

“Our members are the backbone of Nigeria’s hospitality and events industry. What APFSPN offers is a structured pathway for them to access training, mentorship, business development resources, and a community that understands their unique challenges. This Town Hall Meeting is the beginning of that journey — a space where every food service professional can have a voice and be heard.” — Ibidunni Layade, Vice President, APFSPN

Mrs. Layade further stated that the induction of new members at the event underscores the Association’s rapid growth and the hunger within the industry for formal recognition and collective representation.

The Events Director of APFSPN, Ms. Temi Adelana, took the media through the programme of events for the Town Hall Meeting. She outlined a carefully curated agenda designed to combine ceremony, knowledge sharing, and networking.

“The event will commence at 9:00 AM with the arrival and registration of guests, followed by the opening ceremony, the presidential address, the keynote by our Guest Speaker, and the formal induction of new members. We have also incorporated panel discussions, an exhibition showcase featuring food service businesses, and structured networking sessions to ensure that every attendee leaves with tangible value and new connections.” — Temi Adelana, Events Director, APFSPN

Ms. Adelana added that the choice of the Professor Wole Soyinka Centre for Arts and Culture as the venue reflects the Association’s desire to position the food service industry within the broader narrative of Nigerian creativity, culture, and enterprise.

The event will also feature the formal induction of new members, reinforcing the Association’s commitment to building a professional body dedicated to excellence, ethics, innovation, and capacity development in Nigeria’s food service sector.

In further demonstration of the growing relevance of the Association, APFSPN disclosed that the event will attract international delegations and representatives from the Canadian Trade Commission and the Italian Trade Agency.

The Guest Speaker for the event is Former Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed; Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, DG/CEO of NIHOTOUR, while the Special Guest of Honour is High Chief Lai Labode, Aare Ona of Egbaland, and other top dignitaries.

With over 500 food service professionals and stakeholders expected in attendance, the event is positioned to become a defining moment for the industry and a launchpad for stronger institutional engagement.

Calling on the media to amplify the industry’s story, Fletcher described the gathering as more than an event.

“You are not merely covering an event; you are witnessing the beginning of a movement. We urge the media to help tell the story of the women and men who feed this nation and an industry that is ready to be recognised and taken seriously.” — Tobi Fletcher, President, APFSPN

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21-Year-Old Woman Dies After Staff Allegedly Forget Safety Rope During Brazil Bridge Jump (VIDEO)

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4 days ago

June 14, 2026

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21-Year-Old Woman Dies After Staff Allegedly Forget Safety Rope During Brazil Bridge Jump (VIDEO)—-Tragic rope-jump accident in São Paulo leaves young woman dead as authorities detain six people and launch an investigation into safety failures.

A 21-year-old woman has died after being launched from a bridge during a rope-jump activity without being attached to the required safety rope in the Brazilian city of Limeira, São Paulo state. The victim, identified as Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, fell approximately 40 metres after staff allegedly failed to secure her safety equipment before the jump.

The fatal incident occurred at the Ponte do Esqueleto trail, a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. Video footage circulating on social media reportedly shows instructors carrying the woman to the jump platform before releasing her. Moments later, witnesses can be heard shouting that the rope had not been attached.

Emergency responders, including firefighters and paramedics, rushed to the scene but were unable to save her. She was pronounced dead at the site of the accident. Authorities say witness statements indicate a critical safety lapse may have occurred before the jump.

https://thecloudngr.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Rapid_Report_-_JUST_IN_21-year-old_dies_after_workers_forget_to_attach_safety_rope_6ZjVfu.mp4?_=1

Brazilian police detained six individuals connected to the operation as investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Reports indicate that some workers attempted to leave the area following the incident before being located by authorities.

The companies linked to the rope-jump operation have come under intense scrutiny as officials investigate potential negligence and safety protocol violations. The case has reignited debate over safety standards in Brazil’s growing extreme-sports industry.

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