Musicologists seek economic reforms, better monetisation of music sector

The Association of Nigerian Musicologists is calling for urgent economic reforms and better monetisation of the music sector in Nigeria. At the association's 22nd Annual Conference in Ogun State, President Prof. Femi Abiodun challenged music scholars and practitioners to demonstrate how music composition, performance, education, and technology could contribute to the nation's economy.

Abiodun questioned whether military music performances and marching are the only economic contributions of musicians. He emphasized the untapped potential of music tourism and urged Nigerian institutions to move beyond teaching music theory and start producing musical instruments and technologies that can generate employment, revenue, and export opportunities.

The ANM president also highlighted the need to review the country's music curriculum, questioning why Nigerian music is not sufficiently integrated into educational programs. Abiodun criticized the poor monetisation of creative work in Nigeria, noting that society often places a higher value on physical products than intellectual and creative services.

He argued that music education should equip graduates with the ability to convert their knowledge and skills into sustainable livelihoods. The conference, themed "Music and Nigeria’s Economy in the 21st Century," brought together music scholars, practitioners, composers, performers, educators, creators, and other stakeholders. The event's organizers emphasized the importance of turning academic discussions into practical solutions to transform Nigeria’s music sector, generate jobs, promote industry growth, preserve culture, and contribute to national development.