By Ehichioya Steve Odion
The birth of Edo Entertainment Magazine which has been conceived as a more than just a publication has been described as a cultural archive, a rallying point, and a market place of ideas.
It is also a platform dedicated to celebrating, preserving and projecting the extraordinary creativity that flows from Edo State into the world.
These were the exact words of the Governor, Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) Edo State and Editor-in-chief of the magazine, Comrade Willy Eghe-Nova during the Celebration of his Service in PMAN/Awards, unveiling of the magazine and Album in Benin City.
According to him, “the magazine seeks to tell our story with dignity, to shed light on hidden talents and to offer opportunities for collaboration, investment and growth of the entertainment industry. Like the ancient Benin bronze that never tarnishes. We inspire to document Edo’s entertainment legacy in a way that endures”.
Eghe-Nova said the Magazine was conceived to change some contrived narratives, adding that it is a movement to spotlight our talents, forster unity in the industry, and preserve our cultural pride for posterity.
He further said that Edo is blessed with abundant talents which includes musicians whose songs uplift the soul, filmmakers whose stories capture our realities, comedians whose humour heals, dancers who embody rhythm, fashion designers who define style and cultural custodians who preserve our heritage. He said too often their contributions have gone under-recognized.
He described PMAN as a trade union registered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment regulated under the Labour Act.
Eghe-Nova disclosed that he served for eleven years as State Secretary in PMAN under five PMAN Governors in Edo State, adding that he was happy to announce that the association was able to conduct a successful election recently for the new executive that would be swon in soon.
Eghe-Nova commended the chairman of the occasion, Dr. Amb. Dion Osagie for his foresight in bringing the idea that gave birth to the Edo Entertainment Magazine.
The chairman of the event, Double chief Amb. Dion Osagie described the magazine as a medium that will promote the cultural heritage of the state and contribute immensely to its economy.
Eghe-Nova showers praised on one of the special guests, Dr. Amos Abu, life Patron, PMAN Edo State, whom he described as someone with much interest in the activities of PMAN.
Dr. Amos Abu who is billed to be honoured later with an award of excellence in recognition of his immense support for the less privileged and promotion of Edo Arts and culture, is a Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist at the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development, (IBRD), Washington DC, USA.
While expressing his gratitude to the management of the Edo Entertainment Magazine for the award Dr. Amos Abu recounted how Edo PMAN went through turbulent period and commended the establishment of the magazine which he said will serve as the platform to promote the industry and hospitality businesses in Edo State.
He praised Edo PMAN for a successful election that will usher in new executive. He assured them of his willingness to support them where necessary. He advised the incoming executive not to forget the elders in the profession as they are the builders of what the younger ones in the music industry are enjoying today.
Dr. Abu also advised them to establish an endowment fund to cater for the elderly in the music industry and enjoined the youths amongst them to always respect the older ones, listen to their advice and be patient to learn on the job.
On his part, music sensation, comedian, Maleke Moyen, predecessor to Comrade Willy Eghe-Nova as Edo PMAN Governor who was equally honored with award of excellence described the publisher of the magazine as a talented person whose idea brought this laudable project to fruition.
Other persons who received awards at the event include Chief Dr. Omogiade Edokpolo, Hon. Friday Aiguokhian, Queen Obatta and many others.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to other deserving individuals who have contributed to the entertainment industry.
The occasion also featured PMAN Band and guest artistes live on stage, including the unveiling of the magazine and album titled: Awua Edo
Also, there was a short drama presentation led by Willy Eghe-Nova to spice up the event.