VIRGIN MUSIC EXPANDS INTO NIGERIA

Virgin Music Group has established a presence in Lagos, Nigeria. Virgin Music Nigeria's first deals in the region include partnerships with Afrobeats label Dvpper and artists Reekado Banks and Darkoo & Ayra Starr. Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh will serve as head of Virgin Music Nigeria.

"Kay is known throughout Nigeria as a champion of independent labels and artist development," said Virgin Music International Managing Director Michael Roe. "Her relationships, expertise and insight into the local market make her the perfect executive to lead our operations in this very important music market.”

At the helm of her talent agency Kimani Moore Entertainment, Ikazoboh helped guide the careers of Odunsi The Engine, Mowalola and Taylwar, among other artists. She previously held a variety of positions for WMG's Emerging Markets.

Virgin's expansion into Africa began in 2021 with the acquisition of South Africa’s Electromode, one of the continent's leading independent distributors.

“The global appetite for the incredible musical creativity springing from Africa has never been stronger," said Virgin co-CEO Nat Pastor. "Establishing a presence in Nigeria is another important step in our commitment to serving independent African artists and entrepreneurs throughout the region.”