AUDU MAIKORI'S PASSION FOR MUSIC.

The Nigerian Music Industry is getting stronger daily. Local Record Labels are mushrooming, with different artistes and music videos being presented to the listening public and music lovers by the hour. Things were not like this back in the 80's and early 90's. In those days, Nigerian music was dominated by a small group of musicians including Fela Anikulapo Kuti, King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu [ The Elegant Stallion ], Edward Inyang [ Blackky ], Daddy Showkey, et al. The trend changed starting from the late 90's when groups like The Remedies and Rough, Rugged and Raw appeared on the music scene. One man that continues to play a vital role in showcasing Nigerian Music to the world in a positive light is Audu Maikori.

Born on August 13 1975 in Kaduna, Northern Nigera, Maikori attended Kings College in Lagos. After studying law at the University of Jos, Audu became a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK, The International Association of Entertainment lawyers and the Nigerian Bar Association [ NBA ]. In 2001, Audu started to make himself heard and seen on the Nigerian Arts scene. That year, he co-founded the Guild of Artists and Poets [G.A.P ] Nigeria. GAP is an NGO that promotes the Arts with branches in Abuja, Jos and Lagos. He also gave his plans for a Record Label some structure. Thus Chocolate City Entertainment Company was born. Under the dynamic tutelage of Maikori [He's the Company's CEO ], C.C.E has grown beyond all expectations. The Company helped to midwife the careers of successful artistes like Djinee, Asa, M.I, and Jeremiah Gyang.

Audu Maikori is not just into Showbiz for the money and fame alone. He's also helping to establish a regulatory framework for the Nigerian music industry. In 2007, Audu helped to organize the first Nigerian International Music Summit [ NIMS , which was aimed at establishing a legal regulatory framework for Nigerian music. Over 400 Music Industry stakeholders attended the event. Audu, who loves painting and writing poetry, is a partner in Law Allianz where he heads the Entertainment and Intellectual Property Department. He was recognized for his valiant efforts at repositioning Nigerian music in 2007, when he won the British Council's International Young Music Entrepreneur of The Year Award. Audu defeated 10 other finalists from various nations to clinch the award in a contest held in Britain. His star continues to shine. I wonder who will stop this young man from achieving his maximum potentials? In his mid 30's, he still has a lot to do for the world's music industry. RV wishes him the best as he moves on to international stardom.