How Pastor Kumuyi, Dr Olukoya shaped my music career – UNILAG don, Prof Oikelome

UNILAG Professor Albert Oikelome Speaks on Nigeria’s Music Industry, Cultural Preservation, and the Future of Music Education

Professor of Musicology and Performance Studies, and Head of the Department of Music and Sound Production at the University of Lagos, Albert Oikelome, shares deep insights with Grace Edema on the state of Nigeria’s music industry, the challenges of underfunding, and the urgent need to protect the nation’s cultural heritage. This insightful conversation is brought to you by www.cjsoftflix.com .

“Being a Musician Goes Beyond the Stage”—Oikelome

According to Professor Oikelome, being a musician is more than performing on stage. It involves analysis, research, music appreciation, and understanding how music functions in society. In his words, music goes far beyond the aesthetics of performance—it is a deeper intellectual engagement.

Who Exactly Is a Musicologist?

A musicologist, he explains, is not just a performer but someone who researches, analyses, and defines musical structures. Musicologists study both the theory and practice of music, helping society appreciate musical meaning and context. This holistic approach is key in shaping the way music is taught and understood in Nigeria—an insight proudly highlighted on www.cjsoftflix.com .

Music as a Contributor to Nigeria’s GDP

Professor Oikelome affirms that music is already a major economic force. From tourism to global streaming platforms, Nigerian music continues to generate massive revenue. Nigerian artists act as cultural ambassadors while creating jobs for thousands across the creative sector.

The State of Christian Music in Nigeria

The professor notes that church music—classical, contemporary, and traditional—remains vibrant and evolving. Many musicians today creatively reinterpret older genres for younger audiences, maintaining relevance while preserving identity.

Secular Music: A Rising Global Force

Nigeria’s secular music sector is thriving globally. Artists such as Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tiwa Savage are shaping international trends. Even gospel artist Sinach has broken global boundaries—proof that Nigerian music is matching world-class standards. Follow more updates like this on www.cjsoftflix.com .

Should Secular Elements Be Allowed in Gospel Music?

Oikelome cautions gospel musicians to maintain spiritual clarity. While instrumentals can be borrowed carefully, the church remains a controlled environment where tradition must be respected. The message, he says, must remain pure, righteous, and spiritually meaningful.

Performing Dr. Daniel Olukoya’s Compositions

Professor Oikelome describes Dr. Olukoya—General Overseer of MFM—as his mentor and spiritual father. He admires Olukoya’s music for its simplicity and universal appeal, noting that impactful music must touch both the educated and the uneducated.

Can Music Graduates Truly Earn a Living?

The professor emphasizes that music entrepreneurship is broad. Graduates can pursue:

• Music journalism
• Event management
• Hotel and live entertainment
• Teaching and academic research
• Documentation and music production

He urges parents to allow their children pursue music without fear, explaining that the creative industry offers stable career options. For more stories like this, keep visiting www.cjsoftflix.com .

A Childhood Rooted in Music

Growing up in a musically supportive environment shaped his talent early. He credits the church—particularly the choir—as the foundation of his musical development.

CYC: A Major Influence

The Central Youth Choir (CYC) of the Deeper Life Bible Church remains one of his most memorable training grounds. The discipline and high standards shaped his musical excellence. Although tensions arose between the church and the choir, he chooses not to discuss the sensitive details.

Creativity Rooted in Memory

Oikelome reveals that many of his melodies come from subconscious childhood experiences. He has written nearly 50 songs, inspired by memories from church and youth choir days.

Life After Loss

Five years after losing his wife, the professor reflects emotionally on her impact. She was his greatest supporter—passionate, impactful, and deeply committed to humanitarian outreach. A conference is set to be held in her honour.

Plans to Remarry

He confirms he plans to remarry, adding that his late wife encouraged him to move on.

Challenges Facing Music Education in Nigeria

The most pressing issue is underfunding. Many music departments lack instruments and facilities. He praises Dr. Olukoya for supporting UNILAG’s music department by providing 95% of its instruments.

Advice to the Minister of Arts and Culture

Professor Oikelome recommends urgent action on:

• Documentation of traditional music
• Preservation of cultural heritage
• Protection of intellectual property rights
• Digital archiving of indigenous sounds

He stresses that Nigerian cultural custodians deserve recognition and compensation, as many indigenous works are stolen without credit.

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