Laraba MUREY
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has mourned the death of Nigeria’s highlife legend, Mike Ejeagha, who passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 95.
Musawa described Ejeagha as a cultural icon whose contributions to Nigerian music and oral tradition cannot be forgotten.
“The nation has lost a treasure trove of cultural heritage and musical genius. Mike Ejeagha’s contributions to Nigerian music are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” the Minister said.
She also noted that Ejeagha’s impact on Igbo music and folklore made him a custodian of tradition. His storytelling style, full of Igbo proverbs and moral lessons, was a powerful educational tool that blended culture with creativity.
According to the minister, over 300 of his recordings are currently preserved at the National Archives of Nigeria, showcasing his role in documenting and promoting indigenous culture.
Musawa called on Nigerians to honour the late musician by continuing to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. She urged schools, institutions, and the creative industry to make Ejeagha’s works part of Nigeria’s cultural education.
“Mike Ejeagha’s music educated and entertained. His songs were not just music but lessons in wisdom, character, and tradition,” she said.
Ejeagha, often called “Gentleman Mike,” was known for timeless songs such as Akuko N’egwu and Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, which were widely played in the 1960s and beyond. His calm voice and rich use of proverbs won him fans across generations.
The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy urged Nigerians to join in paying tribute to the late icon and uphold the values he stood for.
